By: Ms Sumblina Hassan
Secretary to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto
Former Consultant to the Foreign Office, Islamabad
In charge of Office 10, UK, RCC, Bilawal House
Published By: ANI News Agency
Every year on November 9, Pakistan celebrates the birth anniversary of Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the great philosopher, poet and visionary whose thoughts continue to inspire generations across the world. Known as the Poet of the East, Iqbal gave Muslims a message of self-respect, intellectual freedom, courage and national identity. His vision was not limited to geographical boundaries; it was a philosophy that continues to connect people through faith, knowledge and a shared sense of purpose.
Allama Iqbal reintroduced Islamic culture, traditions and religious values through his writings, presenting them in a philosophical and intellectual framework that remains relevant in the modern world. Although born in Sialkot, he developed a profound literary and intellectual connection with Persian civilisation and wrote many of his major works in the Persian language. His poetry and philosophy helped revive an appreciation of Islamic heritage, historical civilisation and the intellectual contributions of Muslim scholars.
Iqbal was not simply a poet who wrote beautiful verses. He was a thinker who challenged Muslims to recognise their intellectual strength and transform their circumstances. His philosophy of Khudi encouraged individuals to develop confidence, character and determination. He believed that nations could not achieve greatness through dependence or wishful thinking; they needed education, discipline, creativity and collective effort.
His historic Allahabad Address of 1930 presented a vision for a separate political future for Muslims in the subcontinent. This vision became an important intellectual foundation for the Pakistan Movement and helped shape the aspirations that ultimately led to the creation of Pakistan in 1947.
For Pakistanis living overseas, Allama Iqbal holds a particularly meaningful place. Distance from one's homeland often strengthens the emotional connection with its history, culture and national identity. Whether living in Europe, the Middle East, North America or elsewhere, overseas Pakistanis carry their country's traditions, values and aspirations with them. Iqbal's message of selfhood, dignity and purposeful living remains relevant to this generation, reminding them that their identity and responsibilities extend beyond borders.
Iqbal's intellectual influence extended beyond the East and encouraged Western thinkers and readers to reflect on the essence of humanity, the existence of God and the relationship between human beings and the universe. His philosophical writings explored the purpose of human existence, the nature of time, creation and the spiritual dimensions of life. He invited readers to examine art, nature, the mysteries of the earth and the vastness of the universe through a deeper philosophical understanding.
A central theme in Iqbal's philosophy was the relationship between the human spirit and the natural world. He believed that human beings should develop a harmonious relationship with Allah's creation, balancing spiritual consciousness with practical life. His ideas encouraged individuals to understand their responsibilities towards fellow human beings and to build societies founded on justice, compassion, dignity and peace.
Today, Pakistan's relationship with its overseas community is also an important part of its national development. Millions of Pakistanis living abroad contribute through remittances, professional expertise, international business connections, education, investment and cultural diplomacy. They represent Pakistan in their respective societies and often serve as an important bridge between Pakistan and the wider world.
Pakistan itself must also reflect on Iqbal's vision. Political divisions, economic difficulties, educational challenges and social inequalities require serious attention. The country needs institutions that promote justice, merit, innovation and equal opportunities. Remembering Iqbal should not be limited to official ceremonies, speeches and quotations. His philosophy must be reflected in governance, education and national character.
His famous verses continue to inspire millions:
Khudi ko kar buland itna ke har taqdeer se pehle,
Khuda bande se khud poochhe, bata teri raza kya hai.
These words remind us that determination, self-confidence and hard work can help individuals and nations overcome challenges.
