Year-Long Celebrations Begin Ahead of Allama Iqbal’s 150th Birthday

The government has launched year-long national and international celebrations leading up to the 150th birth anniversary of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, “the Poet of the East.” The programme began on November 9, 2026, Iqbal’s 149th birth anniversary, and will run until November 9, 2027.

Planned Events

The programme will include international conferences, scholarly and research-based discussions, literary festivals, exhibitions, educational competitions and cultural activities. The government also wants Iqbal’s teachings integrated into educational institutions and national discourse.

Tributes

President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to Iqbal, highlighting his role in political awareness and the philosophy of khudi (selfhood). Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Iqbal helped Muslims recognise their national identity. Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan stressed defence and economic stability.

Change of Guard at the Mausoleum

A change-of-guard ceremony was held at Allama Iqbal’s mausoleum in Lahore. Commodore Misbah-ul-Amin, Station Commander of the Pakistan Navy, was the chief guest. A floral wreath was to be laid on behalf of Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf.

Iqbal’s 150th Birthday

Iqbal was born on November 9, 1877, in Sialkot. His 150th birth anniversary falls on November 9, 2027.