Pakistan marked on Thursday the 146th birth anniversary of the celebrated poet, philosopher, and thinker – Allama Muhammad Iqbal. The country announced a public holiday, and held various events to commemorate Iqbal's achievements.
Radio Pakistan and tv channels are presenting special programmes in connection with Iqbal Day to highlight poetry and thoughts of Allama Iqbal. President Dr. Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar have paid rich tribute to Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal on his 146th birth anniversary. They have asked the youth to follow his teachings.
Allama Iqbal, a prominent figure of the 20th-century Pakistan Movement, as well as in the fields of poetry, philosophy, law and politics is remembered for his influential poetry that continues to resonate with many until today.
Born in Sialkot on November 9, 1877, Allama Iqbal received his early education in his hometown and Lahore. After obtaining a law degree from Britain in 1905, he pursued a PhD in philosophy from Germany. Following his return in 1910, Iqbal used poetry in a decisive way to awaken the Muslim community intellectually and politically, laying the foundation for the ideology of Pakistan.
He played a key role as a philosopher and politician, advocating for Muslims in India and for the creation of an independent Muslim state which ultimately became Pakistan. His philosophical contributions are globally recognized. His notable works include Bang-e-Dra, Zaboor-e-Ajam, Bal-e-Jibreel, Zarb-e-Kaleem, Javid Nama, and Payam-e-Mashriq.
Allama Iqbal passed away on April 21, 1938, in Lahore; He is buried at Badshahi Mosque, Lahore. His legacy will remain an inspiration for many lives and generations.