Message by the President of Pakistan on Iqbal Day (9th November 2020)

I would like to pay rich homage to the great Muslim Philosopher and Poet of the East, Allama Muhammad Iqbal, on his birth anniversary. He was the great benefactor of the Muslims of sub-continent, who envisioned the idea of a separate homeland for them and later his dream was translated into reality. He was a great thinker who imbibed in Muslims the spirit of unity, through his writings and poetry, that greatly helped them to achieve a separate homeland. Allama Iqbal has rendered great services for the promotion of Muslim cause by infusing a revolutionary spirit in them and playing a prominent role in the renaissance of Muslim society in sub-continent. Following his philosophy of “Khudi” can take us to the heights of development. Our countrymen, particularly the younger generation, need to follow his path and ideals that would greatly help Muslim Ummah in overcoming the modern day’s challenges.

In order to make Pakistan a prosperous nation, we need to follow Allama Iqbal’s teachings on Islam and his philosophy of “Khudi” that believed in the promotion of self-respect and human dignity. It is high time to stand united, set aside our differences and work committedly for the socio-economic uplift of the country.

Let us pledge on this day to work for the unity of Muslim Ummah, and progress and prosperity of the country. I would like to conclude with the following verse of Allama Iqbal:

؃ ایک ہوں مسلم حرم کی پاسبانی کیلئے

       نیل کے ساحل سے لیکر تابخاکِ کاشغر

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