BARRISTER Azad Iqbal is the eldest grandson of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal and son of Barrister Aftab Iqbal. He has kindly sent me his book, Beyond Iqbal: A Journey Through Time: A Grandson’s Odyssey. Carrying forward his distinguished family legacy, he possesses intellectual, spiritual and artistic qualities. He has written poetry in both Urdu and English. Although essentially an autobiography, the book is presented in the form of an odyssey, a profound journey of personal, intellectual and spiritual discovery.
In his introduction, the author writes: “This book is about my journey. It is not merely a record of dates, places and events, but a tapestry of memories, woven with the threads of joy and sorrow, success and failures, belonging and displacement.” This statement aptly captures the spirit of the book, which is written in an engaging narrative style.
The author recalls his childhood and youth, including his school years at Karachi Grammar School and Copford Glebe School in London. He describes his parents’ struggles and achievements with affection and admiration. His father, Barrister Aftab Iqbal, rose from humble beginnings through perseverance and hard work. Azad Iqbal also recounts his own school experiences, his interest in sports, particularly cricket and football, his love of music and his youthful adventures. His remarkable memory brings these experiences vividly to life.
Having worked for years in Saudi Arabia and travelled to several countries, he gained valuable insights into different cultures and ways of life. Yet, the most touching aspect of his autobiography is his profound love for Pakistan. Despite having opportunities to settle abroad, he chose his homeland, believing that no country can replace one’s own.
His ancestral connection with Allama Iqbal is evident throughout the book. He passionately presents his grandfather’s philosophy and vision. On page 42, he writes that Iqbal’s vision was rooted in justice, balance and peace and that his poetry awakened a nation to dignity and purpose. He further observes that Iqbal gave Pakistan its philosophical and spiritual foundation, while Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah gave it political and constitutional form.
I consider Barrister Azad Iqbal a man of action, contemplation, integrity and vision. His autobiography is an engaging account of personal experiences, enriched with philosophical reflections and patriotic sentiments. It offers readers an interesting blend of Eastern spirituality and Western intellectual exposure.
I conclude with a few lines from his English poetry:
“I drank from cups both sweet and deep, Where love would bloom and sorrow sleep.
Each joy a flame, each trial a spark,
I found myself right on the mark.”
These lines beautifully capture the joys and sorrows of life. The book is a worthwhile read for anyone interested in Allama Iqbal’s legacy, personal journeys and the harmonious blending of spiritual and secular thought.
—The writer is a contributing
columnist, based in New York.
