Pakistan observes Allama Iqbal's 148th birth anniversary

President, PM pay tribute to his extraordinary role in awakening spirit of independence among Muslims

Pakistan observed Allama Muhammad Iqbal Day on November 9, celebrating the national poet’s 148th birth anniversary. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif renewed their commitment to the principles and vision of Allama Muhammad Iqbal for a prosperous, peaceful and united Pakistan.

In their separate messages on the birth anniversary, they paid tribute to his thoughts and extraordinary role in awakening the spirit of independence among the Muslims of the subcontinent.

The President said Allama Iqbal's insistence on political representation for Muslims had left a lasting imprint on Pakistan’s national identity. In his message, the Prime Minister said that today the world needs Iqbal's message of brotherhood, love and justice.

He added that the government had launched several programmes to empower youth in line with Allama Iqbal's vision.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also paid tribute to Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the Thinker of Pakistan and Poet of the East. He said Iqbal’s personality and philosophy were an unparalleled legacy that awakened a sense of selfhood and dignity among the Muslims of the subcontinent.

Naqvi said Pakistan was the realisation of Iqbal’s dream, and its protection was a shared responsibility. He noted that Iqbal’s teachings continued to serve as a source of guidance.

The philosophy of Khudi (selfhood), Naqvi said, had instilled in young people high aspirations, steadfast faith and self-confidence. He described Iqbal’s poetry as an eternal message that calls for reflection and action.

“Today, we must embrace Iqbal’s message to build and advance our nation,” Naqvi stated, adding, “May Allah grant us the strength to follow Iqbal’s vision and lead Pakistan to new heights of prosperity. Ameen.”

Sindh leaders call for unity, selfhood and youth empowerment

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah said Iqbal’s philosophy of khudi teaches self-confidence and nation-building, urging youth to adopt his ideas for Pakistan’s progress.

He highlighted Iqbal’s vision of a moderate and forward-looking Muslim society and his lifelong support for unity among Muslims, including solidarity with Palestine. The chief minister said following Iqbal’s teachings could help resolve present-day challenges and called for national unity to secure a brighter future.

Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said Iqbal introduced generations to identity, selfhood and national consciousness. He stressed that Iqbal’s message promotes spiritual growth, knowledge and responsibility, urging young people to harness their potential and play an active role in Pakistan’s development.

PPP leadership renews pledge to Iqbal’s dream

PPP Chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said Iqbal’s vision of a progressive, independent nation continues to inspire confidence and collective welfare across generations.

He recalled how Shaheed Benazir Bhutto advanced that mission by empowering people and strengthening democracy, and appealed for unity to build a Pakistan of hope, equality and dignity led by youth — the country Iqbal dreamed of.

Lahore

A Change of Guards ceremony was held at Mazar-e-Iqbal in Lahore this morning to pay homage to the Poet of the East, Dr Allama Iqbal, on the occasion of his 148th birth anniversary. Commander Pakistan Navy, Central Punjab, Rear Admiral Sohail Ahmad Azmi was the chief guest.

Change of guard ceremony held at Mazar-e-Iqbal Photo: RadioPak

He laid a floral wreath on the national poet’s grave, offered Fateha, and inspected the contingents of the Pakistan Navy and Pakistan Rangers. The contingent of the Pakistan Navy, clad in ceremonial dress, took charge of guard duties at Mazar-e-Iqbal from the Pakistan Rangers.