Nation observes 143rd birth anniversary of Allama Iqbal

Various literary, political, social and cultural organisations arrange special programmes to pay homage

The 143rd birth anniversary of philosopher and poet Allama Iqbal is being observed on Monday across country with national zeal and fervour,

Various literary, political, social and cultural organisations have arranged special programmes to pay homage to the national poet and to highlight his life and thoughts.

President Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan, in their separate messages on Iqbal Day, had urged the need to stand united, set aside differences and work with commitment for the socio-economic uplift of the country.

Prime Minister Imran Khan emphasised on individual and collective responsibility in nation-building while exploring the thoughts of Allama Iqbal.

“Allama Iqbal not only dreamt of Pakistan but also reflected upon the issues it would have to face after its creation,” the premier said, “Iqbal’s vision is still a guiding force to overcome issues like sectarianism and extremism.”

PM Imran urged the nation to concentrate energy on transforming Pakistan under the visions of its forefathers.

A tweet from the Prime Minister’s Office quoted the premier saying that: “He is a great mystic, with a pure spirit, delivered of materiality and, at the same time, a man who respects and honours science, technological progress, and the advancement of human reason in our age.”

 

Prime Minister @ImranKhanPTI pays tribute to "Poet of the East" Allama Muhammad Iqbal on his 143rd birth anniversary.#IqbalDay pic.twitter.com/6FabxmC3aV

— Prime Minister's Office, Pakistan (@PakPMO) November 9, 2020

 

President Alvi in his message also underscored the need of following Iqbal’s teachings on Islam and his philosophy of “Khudi” that believed in the promotion of self-respect and human dignity, to make Pakistan a prosperous nation.

“Iqbal was a great benefactor of the Muslims of sub-continent, who envisioned the idea of a separate homeland for them and later his dream was translated into reality,” the president said.

The investiture ceremony of change of guard was held at the mausoleum of Allama Iqbal in Lahore where a smartly turned out contingent of Pakistan Navy assumed the responsibility of guard from Pakistan Rangers.

Station Commander of Pakistan Navy Commodore Naimatullah Khan was the chief guest on this occasion and laid a floral wreath at the mausoleum and offered prayer.

Punjab Governor Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar and Chief Minister Usman Buzdar visited Mazar e Iqbal in Lahore laid floral wreath at his grave.

PAF launches new motivational song on Iqbal Day

On the auspicious occasion, Directorate General Public Relations of Air Force launched a new motivational song "Shaheen-o-Mahi."

The song is not only a tribute to Allama Iqbal but also depicted his vision for the guardians of aerial defence.

 

The main theme of this song was to acquaint the youth with Iqbal's philosophy of self-realisation and bravery. The song has been sung by the renowned Pakistani vocalist Zaib Bangash.