ISLAMABAD – President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have paid tribute to Allama Muhammad Iqbal on his 149th birth anniversary, highlighting his intellectual legacy, philosophy of Khudi, and vision of an independent, progressive and egalitarian society.
In separate messages issued ahead of Iqbal Day, observed on November 9, both leaders underscored the continued relevance of Iqbal’s teachings for Pakistan’s national development, youth empowerment, social justice and international relations.
President Zardari said Iqbal’s poetry awakened political consciousness among the Muslims of the Subcontinent and encouraged people to recognise their dignity, rights and ability to shape their own future.
He noted that Iqbal’s vision extended beyond political freedom, encompassing equality, economic justice and respect for human dignity. He emphasised the need for a society where workers receive fair wages, farmers benefit from their labour and every child has equal opportunities for education and progress.
Highlighting Iqbal’s concept of Khudi, the president described selfhood as the development of confidence, purpose and responsibility through knowledge, hard work, courage and strong character.
He said national self-respect required Pakistan to strengthen its own capabilities, make independent decisions and engage with other countries on the basis of equality and mutual respect.
The president also stressed Iqbal’s message of Asian awakening, saying that the emerging Asian century should represent not merely economic progress but also freedom from hunger, access to education, equal opportunities and respect for national sovereignty.
He called upon young people to draw inspiration from Iqbal’s poetry to strengthen their spirit of inquiry and critical thinking.
President Zardari also recalled the contributions of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto in advocating the rights and political participation of disadvantaged sections of society.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described Iqbal as an exceptional philosopher and visionary whose intellectual contributions continue to guide Muslims and inspire younger generations.
The prime minister said Iqbal played a significant role in awakening political consciousness among Muslims of the Subcontinent and strengthening their distinct national identity, which contributed to the historic struggle for an independent homeland.
He highlighted the importance of Iqbal’s Islamic philosophy, particularly its guidance for individual and collective life, and said his concept of Khudi offered a framework for transforming the destiny of individuals and nations through self-realisation and purposeful effort.
The prime minister also highlighted Iqbal’s confidence in young people, describing his concept of the Shaheen (falcon) as a symbol of courage, independence, ambition and the pursuit of excellence.
Shehbaz Sharif said Iqbal’s philosophy promoted peace, social harmony, tolerance and justice while rejecting hatred, extremism, sectarianism and discrimination.
He added that Pakistan would continue to promote Muslim unity, universal brotherhood and peaceful coexistence, while supporting the peaceful resolution of international disputes.
Announcing a major commemorative initiative, the prime minister said the government would begin year-long celebrations of Iqbal’s 150th birth anniversary from November 8, 2026, continuing until November 9, 2027.
The programme will include international conferences, academic and research seminars, literary festivals, exhibitions, educational competitions and cultural activities aimed at preserving and promoting Iqbal’s intellectual legacy.
The prime minister said the government was committed to making Iqbal’s philosophy an integral part of educational institutions, national discourse and development priorities.
Both leaders called for renewed efforts to understand and promote Iqbal’s teachings, particularly his emphasis on self-confidence, knowledge, character building, equality and collective progress.
They urged the nation, especially its younger generation, to translate his ideals into practical efforts for building a peaceful, prosperous and developed Pakistan.
