Iqbal Day is a significant celebration in Pakistan that commemorates the birthday of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, a renowned philosopher, poet, and politician who played a crucial role in inspiring the Pakistan Movement. Iqbal was born on November 9, 1877, in what is now modern-day Pakistan. Some of his famous contributions are Bang-i-Dara, Bal-e-Jibril, Bal-e-Jibril, and Armaghan-e-Hijaz.
Though Iqbal Day has been a known public holiday for quite some time it has not been observed like other public holidays. No educational institutions and other offices were closed on that day which is symbolic of any other known public holiday. however, last year, the Federal Government of Pakistan restored Iqbal Day as a day off countrywide to celebrate the services of the poet of the East.
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کبھی اے حقیقت منتظر نظر آ لباس مجاز میں
کہ ہزاروں سجدے تڑپ رہے ہیں مری جبین نیاز میں
Here are some key points about Iqbal Day and its connection to Pakistan:
Celebrating Iqbal’s Contributions
Iqbal Day is observed to honor and celebrate the life and contributions of Allama Muhammad Iqbal. He is considered the national poet of Pakistan due to his inspirational poetry and philosophical writings.
Ideological Influence on Pakistan
Allama Iqbal’s ideas and philosophy played a significant role in the intellectual foundation of Pakistan. He advocated for the rights and empowerment of Muslims in the Indian subcontinent and envisioned a separate homeland for them.
خودی کو کر بلند اتنا کہ ہر تقدیر سے پہلے
خدا بندے سے خود پوچھے بتا تیری رضا کیا ہے
Concept of Two-Nation Theory
Iqbal’s concept of the “Two-Nation Theory” laid the groundwork for the creation of Pakistan. This theory posited that Hindus and Muslims were distinct nations with separate religious, social, and cultural identities, which justified the need for a separate Muslim state.
Inspirational and multilingual Poetry
Iqbal’s poetry, written in both Persian and Urdu, emphasizes themes of self-discovery, spiritual awakening, and the development of individual and collective potential. His poems encourage self-respect, self-determination, and a sense of purpose.
تو شاہیں ہے پرواز ہے کام تیرا
ترے سامنے آسماں اور بھی ہیں
Educational Reforms
Allama Iqbal was a strong advocate for educational reforms in British India. He believed in the importance of education for the intellectual and moral development of individuals and societies. He also played a role in the establishment of educational institutions.
National Holiday in Pakistan
Iqbal Day is a national holiday in Pakistan. On this day, various events are organized across the country, including seminars, conferences, poetry recitations, and cultural programs that focus on Iqbal’s life and teachings.
Legacy in Modern Pakistan
Allama Iqbal’s ideas continue to be influential in Pakistan’s cultural, political, and educational landscape. His poetry and philosophy are often cited in discussions about national identity, unity, and progress.
Connection to Pakistan’s Founding Fathers
Iqbal’s vision and philosophy were instrumental in inspiring leaders like Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan. Jinnah actively worked towards the realization of Iqbal’s dream of a separate Muslim state.
Continued Relevance
Allama Iqbal’s poetry and philosophical writings continue to be studied and admired not only in Pakistan but also by scholars and enthusiasts around the world. His messages of self-realization, spiritual growth, and social justice remain pertinent to contemporary society.
زائران کعبہ سے اقبال يہ پوچھے کوئي
کيا حرم کا تحفہ زمزم کے سوا کچھ بھي نہيں!
Overall, Iqbal Day serves as a reminder of Allama Iqbal’s enduring legacy and the significant role he played in shaping the ideology and creation of Pakistan. It is a day of reflection, inspiration, and celebration for Pakistanis and admirers of Iqbal’s work worldwide.
