The federal government has declared November 9, a Saturday, as a public holiday to honor Iqbal Day, marking the 147th birthday of Allama Iqbal. Known as the “Poet of the East,” Iqbal played a vital role in inspiring Muslims in the Indian subcontinent to seek freedom from British rule and dream of their own homeland. Born in Sialkot in 1877, Iqbal’s poetry and philosophy sparked a powerful movement for a separate Muslim state.
One of Iqbal’s most influential moments was his 1930 address in Allahabad, where he clearly envisioned a separate identity for Muslims. This idea ultimately laid the groundwork for the formation of Pakistan. Today, Iqbal Day is celebrated with special prayers in mosques, a formal Change of Guards ceremony at his mausoleum in Lahore, and events across the country to honor his contributions as a national poet and thinker.
Alongside this, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced that all banks will be closed on Iqbal Day as well.
