On the occasion of Allama Iqbal’s 149th birth anniversary, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the timeless message of equality, self respect and national unity. The government has also announced a full year of commemorative activities to honour the national poet’s legacy.
President Zardari said Allama Iqbal dreamed of a society where wealth, privilege or family background would never decide a person’s value or chances in life. He reminded the nation that Iqbal’s poetry woke people to their own dignity, rights and ability to shape their future. The poet challenged exploitation, stood with the poor and gave honour to honest labour. According to the President, Iqbal placed ordinary people at the heart of progress. He called for a Pakistan where workers receive fair wages, farmers enjoy the fruit of their hard work, and every child can study and rise, no matter their gender, faith or family situation.
Speaking about the idea of khudi, President Zardari explained that true selfhood grows through knowledge, effort, courage and strong character. A person who respects his or her own dignity must also respect the dignity of others. The same rule applies to nations. National self respect means the power to take independent decisions, build the country’s own strengths and deal with other countries as equals.
The President especially urged the youth to draw inspiration from Iqbal’s poetry so they can strengthen their spirit of inquiry and critical thinking. He stressed that Pakistan must turn the ideal of equality into everyday justice and become a developed, strong nation.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that the government is launching a year long programme of national and international events from today. The activities will continue until 9 November next year and will include conferences, seminars, literary festivals, exhibitions, educational competitions and cultural programmes. These events aim to keep Iqbal’s intellectual legacy alive for future generations.
The Prime Minister said Iqbal awakened political consciousness among the Muslims of the subcontinent and helped them recognise their distinct national identity. That awareness played a key role in the struggle for an independent homeland. He pledged that the government will keep Iqbal’s thought central to education, national discussion and development goals. Intellectual awakening, character building and collective renewal must remain national priorities.
Guided by Iqbal’s vision, Pakistan will continue to promote unity among the Muslim Ummah and support peaceful solutions to international disputes. The Prime Minister called on the nation to deepen its understanding of Iqbal’s message, encourage serious research into his ideas, promote creative thinking and strengthen national character.
