ISLAMABAD: The federal government has announced a public holiday on November 9 (Wednesday) on the occasion of the 145th birth anniversary of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal ‘Iqbal Day’.
The government reported the development on Tuesday.
“The Prime Minister is pleased to wish that November 9 (Iqbal Day) shall now be observed as a public holiday,” an official notification read.
Dr. Iqbal played an important role in encouraging millions of Muslims of the subcontinent to seek an independent homeland where they could practice Islam freely.
The day will begin with special prayers in mosques for the development and prosperity of Pakistan.
Dr. Iqbal, popularly known as “Poet of the East” in Pakistan and other parts of the world, was born on November 9, 1877 in Sialkot.
Iqbal was a famous poet and philosopher. He is credited with writing poetry and using his political influence to demand a separate homeland for Muslims.
His 1930 Allahabad address was a pivotal moment in pre-Partition politics.
Allama Iqbal’s address provided a clear direction and distinct identity to the Muslims of the subcontinent to achieve Pakistan.
A changing of guards ceremony will also be held at his mausoleum in Lahore.
