Nation Pays Tribute to Allama Iqbal on 148th Birth Anniversary

LAHORE: The 148th birth anniversary of Pakistan’s national poet and philosopher, Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal, was observed on Sunday across the country with solemn reverence and national pride.

The day began with a dignified ceremony of changing the guard at the Mazar-e-Iqbal (Iqbal Shrine) in Lahore, where a contingent of the Pakistan Navy assumed ceremonial duties. Rear Admiral Sohail Ahmed Azmi, Commander of the Pakistan Navy Central Punjab, attended as the chief guest. He inspected the Navy and Rangers contingents and laid a wreath at Iqbal’s mausoleum, offering prayers for the nation’s progress and prosperity.

A floral wreath was also laid on behalf of Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, followed by tributes from Navy officers, sailors, and civilian personnel.

Across the country, cultural and educational institutions organized seminars, conferences, and poetry recitations to celebrate the vision and philosophy of the “Poet of the East,” whose ideas laid the foundation for the Pakistan Movement.

President Asif Ali Zardari, in his message on the occasion, said that Allama Iqbal awakened the consciousness of freedom among the Muslims of the subcontinent. “Iqbal’s message is still a source of guidance. His 1930 Allahabad address became the foundation of Muslim autonomy,” the president said. He added that Iqbal’s thoughts shaped the national identity of Pakistan and urged the nation to continue following his principles of faith, discipline, and unity.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif also paid rich tribute to Iqbal, saying, “He was not only a poet but also a reformer and counselor who gave the Muslims of the subcontinent a sense of freedom through his poetry.” She said Iqbal’s philosophy inspired Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah to lead the nation toward independence.

CM Nawaz emphasized that Iqbal’s lesson of self-reliance remains his greatest gift to the nation. “Practicing self-reliance is the best way to express love for Allama Iqbal,” she said. “Pakistan can become a true welfare state by following his philosophy of moderation, justice, and equality.”

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Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon also paid homage to the poet-philosopher, calling Iqbal’s message “a guiding light for the youth of every era.” He said Iqbal’s poetry continues to inspire generations with its themes of self-respect, spiritual elevation, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Memon urged the youth to reflect deeply on Iqbal’s vision of self-determination and responsibility. “Iqbal taught that the survival of a nation depends on the knowledge, dignity, and commitment of its individuals,” he said. “His ideas continue to guide the path toward a just and prosperous society.”

Nationwide, the anniversary was marked by special programs, discussions, and poetry recitals highlighting Iqbal’s enduring legacy — a vision of selfhood, faith, and action that continues to shape Pakistan’s moral and intellectual landscape.