Lahore (Web Desk): The 146th birth anniversary of Philosopher poet Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal is being observed today (Thursday) with national zeal and fervour.
The Philosopher poet known as Poet of the East, Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal was born in Sialkot on November 9,1877 and diead in Lahore on April 21, 1938.
He awakened the Muslims of the Subcontinent through his universal poetry and political acumen by presenting idea of the creation of Pakistan through his historic address at Allahabad in 1930.
Allama Iqbal’s address gave a clear direction and separate identity to Muslims of the Sub-Continent to achieve Pakistan.
Radio Pakistan and TV channels are presenting special programmes in connection with ‘Iqbal Day’ to highlight poetry and thoughts of Allama Iqbal.
Various literary, educational, political, social and cultural organisations arranged special programmes to pay homage to the national poet and highlight different aspects of his life and teachings.
Meanwhile, an impressive Change of Guard Ceremony was held at mausoleum of Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal.
A smartly attired contingent of Pakistan Navy took over guard duties from Pakistan Rangers Punjab, a Pakistan Navy news release said.
Station Commander Lahore of Pakistan Navy Commodore Sajid Hussain was chief guest on this occasion. He laid floral wreath at mausoleum and offered prayers.
On this occasion, the Khateeb of Badshahi Masjid and the Chairman of the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee prayed for the elevated status of the late poet in the afterlife, a prosperous Pakistan, the freedom of Palestine, and the end of hardships of the Palestinians.
The ceremony was witnessed by civil, military dignitaries and large number of general public.
Punjab Governor Muhammad Balighur Rahman also laid a wreath at Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal's grave, offered Fateha, and recorded his sentiments in the Visitors' book.
Moreover, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) released a video based on the iconic poetic verses of Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal.
According to a PAF press release, the short documentary features Shaheen, the dynamic character of Iqbal's poetry, with his verses focused on dignity, self-reliance, resilience and purity of soul.
The PAF, in the documentary, renews the pledge that its every Shaheen is ever ready to render any sacrifice for protection of the motherland.