ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is observing the 147th birth anniversary of its national philosopher and poet, Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal across the country on Saturday.
The Changing of the Guard ceremony took place in the morning at the Mazar-e-Iqbal in Lahore, with Rear Admiral Azhar Mahmood, Commander of the Pakistan Navy’s Central Punjab, serving as the chief guest.
A contingent from the Pakistan Navy assumed responsibility for the guard of honour at the national poet’s tomb.
Following the ceremony, wreaths were laid by Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of the Naval Staff, along with senior Navy officers, sailors, and civilian personnel.
A ceremonial guard change is taking place at the mausoleum of Iqbal. The Acting President and Prime Minister paid tribute to the national poet honoring his vision and legacy.
On this day, special programs are broadcast on radio and television to honor the poetry and philosophies of Allama Iqbal. The occasion is being observed as a national public holiday.
Born in Sialkot on November 9, 1877, Iqbal is celebrated for his influential poetry and profound political insight.
Iqbal played a pivotal role in awakening the Muslim community of the subcontinent through his works, which combined philosophical thought and a vision for political change.
His famous 1930 address at the Allahabad session of the All India Muslim League is considered a landmark moment in history, as it laid the foundation for the idea of an independent Muslim state, eventually leading to the creation of Pakistan.
PM Shehbaz, president hnonor Allama Iqbal on his birth anniversary
On the occasion of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal’s 147th birth anniversary, Acting President Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani paid tribute to the national poet, highlighting the unifying role his work played among the Muslims of the Subcontinent.
Yousuf Raza Gillani noted that Iqbal’s philosophy inspired a movement that led to the creation of Pakistan, motivating Muslims to strive for an independent homeland.
He stressed that Iqbal’s teachings, centered on Islamic values, spiritual revival, and cultural identity, continue to guide Pakistan’s youth in their pursuit of progress and national development.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, in his message, also honored Iqbal’s contributions, emphasizing how his vision ignited the dream of a separate homeland for Muslims, culminating in the creation of Pakistan.
He praised Iqbal’s teachings on self-reliance, unity, and self-awareness, which remain vital sources of inspiration for the nation’s development.
The prime minister encouraged Pakistan’s youth to rise above mediocrity, stressing that hard work and unwavering faith are the keys to achieving greatness. He reaffirmed his commitment to realizing Iqbal’s vision of a nation built on justice, equality, and excellence.
