ISLAMABAD, 10 November 2004 — The birth anniversary of poet-philosopher Dr. Muhammad Iqbal was celebrated yesterday in Pakistan.
Special programs were held in which main aspects of the life of the great poet and his services to Pakistan were highlighted. Radio Pakistan and Pakistan Television broadcast special programs on the occasion.
President Gen. Pervez Musharraf said that the teachings of Iqbal have guided the country in harmonizing society by eliminating sectarianism, factional thinking and subduing forces of dissension and extremism.
In a message on the 127th birth anniversary of Iqbal, the president said Iqbal’s message was not limited to South Asia and his thought-provoking ideas have appeal for all humanity and also great relevance for scholars around the world. “We look up to the teachings of Allama Iqbal as our guide in trying to harmonize society by eliminating sectarianism, factional thinking and subduing the forces of dissension and extremism,” he added.
Musharraf described Allama Iqbal as one of the greatest thinkers of modern times and a source of inspiration. He said the suppression of Muslims of South Asia was a source of deep anguish for Iqbal, and being a visionary he could foresee their continued subjugation with the end of colonial rule.
“He dreamt of a separate homeland for the Muslims, a land where they could strive unhindered for their socio-economic emancipation and development. He devoted his entire efforts toward the attainment of this objective,” he said.
