Today marks the 86th death anniversary of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, a towering figure in Pakistani history and literature. Born on November 9, 1877, in Sialkot, Iqbal’s legacy transcends mere poetry; he was a philosopher, politician, and visionary whose ideals played a pivotal role in the creation of Pakistan.
Known as the Muffakir-e-Pakistan (the thinker of Pakistan), Shair-e-Mashriq (the poet of the east), and Hakeemul Ummat (the doctor of the Muslim Ummah), Iqbal’s influence extends far beyond his native land. His visionary poetry and philosophical musings ignited a flame of national consciousness among the Muslims of the Indian subcontinent, advocating for their separate identity and eventual independence.
Iqbal’s literary contributions are vast and profound. Works like Asrar-e-Khudi, Payam-i-Mashriq, Bang-i-Dara, Bal-i-Jibril, Zarb-i Kalim, and Armughan-e-Hijaz are not just literary treasures; they are ideological manifestos that continue to inspire generations. His poetry, rich in Urdu and Persian, reflects a deep understanding of human nature, spirituality, and the complexities of existence.
Beyond his literary prowess, Iqbal’s political activism and intellectual contributions were instrumental in shaping the course of history. He articulated the need for Muslims to assert their distinct cultural and political identity in the face of colonialism and oppression. His famous Allahabad Address of 1930 laid the groundwork for the demand for a separate Muslim state, which eventually materialized as Pakistan in 1947.
Iqbal’s message of unity, enlightenment, and patriotism reverberates not only in Pakistan but across the globe. His poetry, infused with Sufi wisdom and universal truths, transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, resonating with people of diverse backgrounds. Even today, his verses are quoted in languages as varied as Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, and English, underscoring the enduring relevance of his message.
On this solemn occasion, as the nation commemorates the life and legacy of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, it is not merely a tribute to a poet; it is a reaffirmation of the ideals he championed—freedom, justice, and the pursuit of truth—that continue to guide and inspire humanity.
