Every nation has iconic figures who inspire its people with their leadership, ideas, and dreams. Allama Muhammad Iqbal is as big for Pakistan as Shakespeare for England, Goethe for Germany, Marx for Russia, and Mao for China. Dr. Iqbal was a great poet, philosopher, and thinker. He is called the “Dreamer of Pakistan” because he gave the idea of a separate homeland. His poetry and vision laid the foundation for the creation of Pakistan. We remember him every year both on his birth anniversary on November 9, and his death anniversary on April 21.
Early Life and Education

Muhammad Iqbal was born on November 9, 1877 in Sialkot. His father Sheikh Noor Muhammad was a devout Muslim who encouraged young Iqbal to seek knowledge. From an early age, Iqbal showed a deep love for learning, especially poetry and philosophy. In Sialkot, he studied at the Scotch Mission College, and later moved to Lahore for higher education. He studied philosophy and literature at the Government College Lahore where his teacher Sir Thomas Arnold recognized his brilliance, and inspired him to pursue further studies in Europe. In 1905, Iqbal traveled to England and Germany where he earned a degree in philosophy from Cambridge University and a PhD from Munich University. His time in Europe exposed him to Western ideas, but instead of being swayed by those ideas, he became even more passionate about the revival of the Muslim world.  
Iqbal – A Voice of the Muslims  
Allama Iqbal expressed his thoughts through poetry, writing in both Urdu and Persian. His poems carried deep meanings and urged Muslims to rise, unite, and reclaim their lost glory.  Some of his most famous poetry collections include “Bang-e-Dra” (The Call of the Bell), “Bal-e-Jibril” (Gabriel’s Wing), “Zarb-e-Kaleem” (The Strike of Moses), “Javeed Nama” (Book of Eternity). One of his most famous poems is “Lab Pe Aati Hai Dua Ban Ke Tamanna Meri”, which children across Pakistan recite in the morning assembly of schools and colleges.
Iqbal’s Dream of Pakistan 
Allama Iqbal was deeply concerned about the struggle of Muslims under the British rule. He saw that Muslims and Hindus were two different nations with separate cultures, traditions, and dreams. In his famous 1930 Allahabad address, he boldly presented the idea of a separate homeland where Muslims could live in accordance with their own free will. He said: “I would like to see the Punjab, North-West Frontier Province, Sindh, and Baluchistan united into a single state. Self-government within or without the British Empire, the formation of a consolidated North-West Indian Muslim state appears to me to be the final destiny of the Muslims, at least of North-West India.” This idea later became the foundation of the Pakistan Movement led by Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah. Iqbal’s dream turned into reality on 14th August 1947, when Pakistan was born.  
Iqbal’s Message for the Youth  
Allama Iqbal had great hope in the youth. He called them “Shaheen” (eagle), which is a symbol of courage, vision, and high ambitions. In his poems, he encouraged young ones to seek knowledge and wisdom; be proud of their identity; work hard with honesty and faith; and never lose hope, no matter how tough the challenges.  

One of his famous verses for the youth is:  

Raise yourself so high that before writing your destiny,
God Himself asks, “Tell me, what is your wish?”
He taught us that if we work hard and believe in ourselves, even the impossible becomes possible.
Iqbal’s Legacy
Though Allama Iqbal passed away on April 21, 1938, yet his legacy continues to live and inspire millions across the globe. He was buried near Badshahi Mosque Lahore, where people visit to pay him respects. The honor guard stands at his tomb changes on every 23rd March, 14th August and 9th November. His birth anniversary is celebrated throughout Pakistan with speeches and poetry recitations. Schools, universities, and roads are named after him. His dream of a strong, independent Pakistan lives on in our hearts. It is our duty to work hard, follow his teachings, and make Pakistan a prosperous nation.  
Iqbal was not just a poet; he was a revolutionary thinker who awakened the Muslim world with his powerful words. His dream of Pakistan came true because of his unwavering faith and the sacrifices of countless heroes. His message was powerful enough that he called upon the youth to hold even the power of Judgment Day. We must cherish his legacy, seek knowledge, and contribute to our nation’s progress. May we always remember Allama Iqbal’s vision and legacy, and strive to make Pakistan a shining example for the world. Let’s keep his dream alive!