Lahore (Web Desk): The 88th death anniversary of 'Poet of East' , Allama Muhammad Iqbal, is being observed today (Tuesday), remembering his remarkable intellectual heritage and the role he played in shaping the vision of a separate homeland for Muslims of the Subcontinent.
Born in Sialkot on November 9, 1877, Iqbal is honoured as the national poet and is known by titles such as Muffakir-e-Pakistan, Shair-e-Mashriq, and Hakeemul Ummat.
Through his poetry and philosophy, he awakened a deep sense of identity, unity, and awareness among Muslims.
His idea of an independent Muslim state in South Asia is regarded as a key inspiration that eventually led to the creation of Pakistan in 1947, nearly ten years after his death.
A prominent literary figure, Iqbal wrote many celebrated works in both Urdu and Persian. His well-known books include Asrar-e-Khudi, Bang-e-Dara, Bal-e-Jibril, Zarb-e Kalim, Payam-e-Mashriq, and Armughan-e-Hijaz.
His poetry, filled with ideas of self-discovery, revival, and spiritual strength, has been translated into many languages and continues to inspire readers across the world.
Throughout the country, various educational, political, social, and cultural organisations have organised seminars, conferences, and special programmes to reflect on Iqbal’s ideas and contributions.
Speakers at these events will narrate how his teachings still hold value today in guiding young people towards self-confidence, intellectual growth, and a clear sense of purpose.
Often seen as a poet of vision, Iqbal aimed to awaken a spirit of change and strength within the Muslim Ummah. Through his powerful verses, he called for independence, dignity, and unity for collective progress.
Allama Muhammad Iqbal passed away on April 21, 1938. His message and legacy continue to live on, inspiring generation after generation.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have said that Allama Muhammad Iqbal was not just an eminent poet, but a profound thinker and a source of moral and spiritual strength who awakened the Muslim Ummah to self-recognition, intellectual independence, dignity, and persistent striving.
In their separate messages issued on the occasion of the 88th death anniversary of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the president and the premier paid tribute to the Poet of the East, acknowledging that his poetry played a vital role in inspiring a once-oppressed nation to rise with confidence and determination.
President Zardari said that Iqbal’s work reflects a visionary outlook for society, grounded in principles of justice, human dignity, and the limitless capabilities of people.
PM Shehbaz observed that Iqbal’s philosophy continues to resonate in the present era, offering guidance in tackling modern-day issues including extremism, intolerance, and societal divisions.
The prime minister reaffirmed government’s commitment to empowering the younger generation through education, skill development, and a deep sense of national pride.