Allama Muhammad Iqbal was a poet, philosopher, and politician who is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of Pakistan. He is also known as the “Poet of the East” and his writings have inspired millions of people around the world.

Iqbal Day is celebrated on November 9th every year in Pakistan to commemorate the birth anniversary of Allama Iqbal. It is a national holiday and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotism.

Significance of Iqbal Day

Iqbal Day is significant for a number of reasons. First, it is a day to celebrate the life and work of one of the greatest poets and philosophers of the modern era. Iqbal’s writings have had a profound impact on Muslim thought and culture, and his ideas about Islam, education, and self-determination continue to be relevant today.

Second, Iqbal Day is a day to celebrate the creation of Pakistan. Iqbal was a strong advocate for the creation of a separate homeland for Muslims in the Indian subcontinent. He believed that such a homeland would provide Muslims with the opportunity to practice their religion and culture freely.

Third, Iqbal Day is a day to reaffirm the ideals of Pakistan. Iqbal envisioned Pakistan as a progressive and democratic state that would be based on the principles of Islam. He wanted Pakistan to be a country where all citizens would be treated equally, regardless of their religion, ethnicity, or social status.

How is Iqbal Day celebrated?

Iqbal Day is celebrated in a variety of ways in Pakistan. On this day, people visit Iqbal’s mausoleum in Lahore to pay their respects. Special seminars and conferences are also held to discuss Iqbal’s life and work.

In schools and colleges, students participate in various activities such as reciting Iqbal’s poetry, writing essays about his ideas, and performing plays and skits based on his work.

On Iqbal Day, the government of Pakistan also organizes various events and programs to promote Iqbal’s ideas and to celebrate his contributions to the nation.

Iqbal’s message for the youth

Iqbal had a special message for the youth of Pakistan. He wanted them to be educated and enlightened, and to play a leading role in building a strong and prosperous nation. He also wanted them to be proud of their Muslim heritage and to uphold the values of Islam.

In his poem “Tarana-e-Milli,” Iqbal wrote:

“Go forward, O Muslim youth, and build your nation, With the sword of knowledge and the shield of faith. Let your hearts be filled with courage and determination, And your minds with the light of learning.”

Iqbal’s message is still relevant today. The youth of Pakistan are the future of the country, and they have a vital role to play in building a better future for all.

Conclusion

Iqbal Day is an important day for Pakistanis to celebrate the life and work of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the Poet of the East. Iqbal was a visionary leader who inspired the Muslim Ummah with his poetry and writings. His ideas about Islam, education, and self-determination continue to be relevant today.

On Iqbal Day, let us all recommit ourselves to following Iqbal’s teachings and to building a Pakistan that is true to his vision.