Saifullah Ansar

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday paid rich tribute to national poet and philosopher Allama Muhammad Iqbal on the occasion of Iqbal Day and his 149th birth anniversary, announcing that the government would launch year-long celebrations leading up to the 150th anniversary of the great thinker’s birth on November 9 next year.

In a special message issued on Iqbal Day, they described Allama Iqbal as a visionary philosopher, statesman and intellectual whose ideas awakened political consciousness among the Muslims of the subcontinent and helped shape the movement for an independent homeland.

They said Iqbal played a pivotal role in helping Muslims recognize their distinct national identity, a realization that ultimately became a driving force behind the struggle for Pakistan.

The prime minister noted that Iqbal’s thoughts continue to inspire generations of young people, promoting intellectual growth, self-awareness and a broader understanding of the challenges facing the Muslim world. He said the poet-philosopher’s interpretation of Islamic teachings continues to provide practical guidance to Muslims in the modern era.

Announcing a major national initiative, Shehbaz Sharif said the government would formally launch a year-long programme of national and international events to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Allama Iqbal. The celebrations will continue until November 9 next year and will include international conferences, academic and research seminars, literary festivals, exhibitions, educational competitions and cultural activities.