Lahore (Web Desk): The 143rd birth anniversary of Philosopher poet Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal is being observed today with national zeal and fervor.
An investiture ceremony of change of guard was held at the mausoleum of Allama Iqbal, the Radio Pakistan reported.
A smartly turned out contingent of Pakistan Navy assumed the responsibility of guard from Pakistan Rangers.
Station Commander of Pakistan Navy Commodore Naimat-ullah Khan was chief guest on this occasion who laid floral wreath at the mausoleum and offered prayer. He also penned down his comments in Visitors' book and paid tribute to national poet.
President Dr Arif Alvi, Prime Minister Imran Khan, in their separate messages on Iqbal Day, urged the nation to stand united for socio-economic uplift of Pakistan.
In his message, President Dr Arif Alvi underscored the need of following Allama 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.
In his message, Prime Minister Imran Khan underscored individual and collective responsibility in the building of the nation while exploring thoughts of Allama Iqbal.
The PM said that Allama Iqbal not only dreamt of Pakistan but also reflected upon the issues it would have to face after its creation.
"Iqbal’s vision is still a guiding force to overcome issues like sectarianism and extremism," the premier added.
He urged the nation to concentrate their energies on transforming Pakistan under the visions of its forefathers.
Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar visited Mazar-e-Iqbal in Lahore on Monday and laid floral wreath at his grave.
Meanwhile, various literary, political, social and cultural organizations have arranged special programmes to pay homage to the national poet and to highlight his life and thoughts.
Iqbal was born on 9th November 1877 and died on 21 April 1938. He is also recognised as a national poet, and known as Muffakir-e-Pakistan (thinker of Pakistan), Shair-e-Mashriq (poet of the east) and Hakeemul Ummat (doctor of the Muslim ummah).