The 147th birth anniversary of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the ‘Poet of the East,’ is being celebrated across Pakistan with national enthusiasm and pride on Friday.
The day began with special prayers in mosques for peace, unity, prosperity, and progress, as the country observed a public holiday.
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Tributes were paid to Iqbal, who had a profound influence on the Muslim identity of the subcontinent and advocated for a separate homeland for Muslims.
In addition to the national prayers, the Change of Guard Ceremony was held at Mazar-e-Iqbal in Lahore. Acting President Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif honored the national poet, with Gillani emphasizing Iqbal’s role in uniting Muslims and inspiring Pakistan’s creation through his focus on Islamic values and cultural revival.
Prime Minister Sharif reflected on how Iqbal’s philosophy led to the creation of Pakistan, urging young Pakistanis to pursue self-reliance, unity, and excellence while reaffirming the commitment to building a just and equal nation.
