President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlight Allama Iqbal’s message of equality, self-respect and unity as Pakistan announces year-long commemorations.
ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have called for greater equality, national unity and collective progress as Pakistan marks the 149th birth anniversary of national poet Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal, urging the nation to translate his philosophy into practical action.
In separate messages issued on Monday, the country’s top leaders highlighted Iqbal’s contribution to Muslim political consciousness and his enduring teachings on self-respect, knowledge, social justice and national strength.
President Zardari said Iqbal envisioned an egalitarian society in which wealth, privilege and family background would not determine an individual’s worth or opportunities. He stressed that every citizen should enjoy equal rights and opportunities, regardless of gender, religion or social circumstances.
Recalling the influence of Iqbal’s poetry, the president said it awakened people to their dignity, rights and ability to shape their own future. He noted that the poet challenged exploitation, highlighted the struggles of disadvantaged communities and upheld the dignity of labour.
Zardari said translating Iqbal’s vision into reality required practical measures, including fair wages for workers, protection for farmers and equal educational opportunities for every child.
Emphasising Iqbal’s philosophy of Khudi (selfhood), the president said individuals could strengthen themselves through knowledge, hard work, courage and strong character. He also encouraged young people to draw inspiration from Iqbal’s poetry, develop critical thinking and contribute to building a prosperous and developed Pakistan.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that the government would formally launch a year-long commemoration of Iqbal’s 149th birth anniversary, beginning on November 9, 2026, and concluding on November 9, 2027.
He said the programme would feature national and international activities, including international conferences, academic seminars, research events, literary festivals, exhibitions, educational competitions and cultural programmes.
The prime minister highlighted Iqbal’s historic role in awakening political awareness among Muslims of the Subcontinent and inspiring them to recognise their distinct national identity, which ultimately contributed to the struggle for an independent homeland.
Shehbaz reaffirmed the government’s commitment to incorporating Iqbal’s philosophy into educational institutions, national discussions and development policies.
He said intellectual awakening, character building and collective renewal should remain central to Pakistan’s national priorities.
Highlighting Iqbal’s message of Muslim solidarity, the prime minister said Pakistan would continue to promote unity among the Muslim Ummah and support peaceful solutions to international disputes.
Both leaders urged Pakistanis, particularly young people, to rediscover Iqbal’s teachings and turn his ideals of equality, self-respect, unity and progress into meaningful action.
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