Iqbal's poetry urged Muslims to break free from shackles: Sharjeel

Says his philosophy of selfhood, self-confidence remains relevant

KARACHI:

Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon on Monday said Allama Muhammad Iqbal's poetry awakened Muslims to the ideals of selfhood, self-confidence and freedom, providing them with a distinct identity and the vision to shape their own future.

In his message on Iqbal's birth anniversary, the provincial minister for information, transport and mass transit said the poet's philosophy encouraged people to break free from slavery, despair and inferiority complexes and recognise their own potential.

He said Iqbal's poetry was not merely literature but an intellectual movement that instilled among Muslims a sense of self-worth and inspired them to determine their destiny. Sharjeel said Iqbal's metaphorical Shaheen (eagle) symbolised ambition, self-respect and courage, while his ideas provided an intellectual foundation for the Pakistan Movement. The creation of Pakistan, he added, was the culmination of a long intellectual and political struggle in which Iqbal's philosophy played a significant role.

The minister said understanding and incorporating Iqbal's teachings into national life was more important than ever. His message should not be confined to commemorative ceremonies and speeches but translated into everyday actions, he added.