Pakistan Celebrates Allama Iqbal Day today
By Azka Jameel - Pakistan Times Staff Correspondent

ISLAMABAD: The nation celebrates the 127th birth anniversary of the great mystic Poet-Philosopher, Allama Muhammad Iqbal today, Tuesday with a renewed pledge to transform the society in line with the vision of the fêted soul.

Today is a public holiday across Pakistan and in Azad Kashmir. With all government institutions, even private entrepreneurs shall remain closed. The State Bank of Pakistan has also announced the closure of all Banks and other allied set-ups today to observe the occasion.

As per programme, people from all segments of the society will visit the mausoleum of Allama Iqbal, close to the historic Badshahi Mosque in the Punjab metropolis—Lahore to pay homage to the spirited soul and to offer Fateha.

As is known to every erudite, Allama Iqbal played a significant role in getting the Muslims of South Asia, a separate and sovereign homeland, Pakistan by working hand-in-hand with the Father of the nation, Quiad-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

Recitation and Wreaths

The faithful shall recite verses from the Holy Quran and lay fragrant floral wreaths at the Mazar of Allama Iqbal.

Various organizations in Pakistan have worked out exclusive programmes to mark the occasion with respect and veneration. The theme of the events shall be the unprecedented visualization of the Poet of the East, who won fabulous admiration al-over the world.

Speakers shall also highlight the services of Allama Iqbal, which he rendered for the unification of the Ummah and the resurgence of Islamic values, all-over the Muslim world.

State-run radio and television shall transmit special programmes today with focus on the life of the great visionary of the 20th century era.

President's Message

President General Pervez Musharraf Monday said the teachings of Allama Iqbal have guided the country in harmonizing society by eliminating sectarianism, factional thinking and subduing forces of dissension and extremism.

In a message on 127th birth anniversary of poet -philosopher Allama Iqbal, the President said Allama Iqbal's message was not limited to South Asia alone and his thought provoking ideas have appeal for the humanity and also great relevance for scholars around the world.

"We look up to the teachings of Allama Iqbal as our guide and are trying to harmonize society by eliminating sectarianism, factional thinking and subduing the forces of dissension and extremism," he added.

He described Allama Iqbal as one of the greatest thinkers of modern times and a source of inspiration for all humanity.

The President said, the suppression of the Muslims of South Asia was a source of deep anguish for Iqbal, and being a visionary he could foresee their continued subjugation with the end of colonial rule.

He dreamt of a separate homeland for the Muslims, a land where they could strive unhindered for their socio - economic emancipation and development. He devoted his entire efforts towards the attainment of this objective, the President said.

"Iqbal's ideals are aimed at nurturing a Muslim society aware of its cultural, spiritual and religious assets, while not being alienated from the times."

His message was one of hope and his writings and poetry were responsible for rekindling awakening among the Muslims and led to their rallying round the unmatched leadership of the Quaid-e-Azam for the creation of Pakistan.

The President prayed to Allah Almighty to "give us the wisdom to serve our nation, Islam and all humanity in light of the teachings of Allama Iqbal. Ameen."

PM's Message

Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz has urged the nation to seek guidance from Allama Iqbal's message and follow it to achieve the goals for which the country was created.

In a message on the birth anniversary of great poet and philosopher Allama Iqbal, Prime Minister said he awakened the Muslims of the subcontinent and rekindled a desire to seek their long-lost identity.

Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz said Allama Iqbal inspired and guided the Muslims of the subcontinent on to the way of independence.

He said it was due to Iqbal's message that the people overcame their despondency and hopelessness and rallied around Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah who led to the ultimate fruition of their dreams.

Allama Iqbal used his poetry woven with prophetic vision, religious, historical, social, cultural and political themes and enlightened the people about their rights and obligations.

He said Iqbal's verses are as relevant today as when these were written and urged the nation to seek guidance from these as there was no better way to pay tribute to the great man.

"Let us resolve on this day once again to move forward by following Iqbal's guiding principles for attaining our destiny."●