Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has announced year-long celebrations to mark the
149th birth anniversary of Allama Muhammad Iqbal. The celebrations will begin on November 9,
2026, and continue until November 9, 2027.

In his message on Iqbal Day, the prime minister paid tribute to Allama Iqbal, who is known as
the Poet of the East. He said Iqbal played an important role in awakening political awareness
among Muslims of the subcontinent. His ideas encouraged Muslims to recognise their separate
identity and work towards an independent homeland.

The prime minister announced that the government would organise several national and
international events during the year. These activities will include international conferences,
research seminars, literary festivals, exhibitions, educational competitions, and cultural
programmes.

He said these events would help protect Allama Iqbal’s intellectual and literary contributions.
They would also help introduce his ideas to younger generations.
Shehbaz Sharif described Allama Iqbal as a great philosopher and thinker whose teachings
continue to guide Muslims. He said Iqbal’s understanding of Islamic teachings provides valuable
guidance for individuals and society.

The prime minister also highlighted the importance of including Iqbal’s philosophy in educational
institutions and national discussions. He said the government wants to promote education,
strong character, and positive thinking among young people.

He particularly discussed Iqbal’s concept of Khudi, which means self-respect and
self-awareness. This idea teaches people to recognise their abilities, work towards their goals,
and improve their future through hard work and determination.

He also mentioned Iqbal’s concept of the Shaheen (falcon), which represents courage, freedom,
high ambitions, and the desire to achieve excellence. According to the prime minister, Iqbal
believed that young people were the builders of the nation’s future.

Shehbaz Sharif further said that Iqbal’s philosophy promotes peace, unity, justice, tolerance,
and respect for others. His teachings reject hatred, extremism, religious division, and
discrimination.

He added that Iqbal’s message of Muslim unity and brotherhood remains important in today’s
world. Pakistan will continue to support unity among Muslim countries and encourage peaceful
solutions to international conflicts.

The prime minister urged the nation to understand Iqbal’s teachings, support research on his
philosophy, and promote creative thinking. He said Iqbal’s message could guide Pakistan
towards a stronger and more united future.

Source: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s message on Iqbal Day

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