Iqbal Day is observed on November 9 to commemorate the life, philosophy, and literary contributions of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal, a poet, philosopher, and politician who played pivotal role in inspiring the Pakistan Movement. This day holds significant cultural and historical importance for us all, reflecting on Iqbal’s vision for an independent and vibrant Muslim nation. 
Iqbal is titled as the ‘Dreamer of Pakistan’, the ‘National Poet of Pakistan’, the ‘Poet of the East’, and the ‘Spiritual Guide’ or the ‘Sage of the Ummah’. He was the one who inspired the Ideology of Pakistan, based on Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s “Two-Nation Theory”, that led to the creation of Pakistan. His poetry continues to be read, recited and admired by the literary geniuses around the world. 
Early Life and Education
Born on November 9, 1877, in Sialkot, Muhammad Iqbal showed early intellectual promise. His father Sheikh Noor Muhammad and mother Imam Bibi instilled in him love for literature and spirituality. He received his early education at Sialkot and then moved to Lahore for higher studies. He completed his B.A. and M.A. at the Government College. He taught Arabic at the Oriental College Lahore from 1899 until 1903. He qualified for a scholarship from Trinity College, University of Cambridge, and obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1906. In 1907, Iqbal moved to Germany and earned a ‘Doctor of Philosophy’ degree from the University of Munich. He spent six months at Heidelberg city, where a road is also named after Allama Iqbal. 
Iqbal’s Role in Politics
Allama Iqbal made his debut in politics when he was elected as a member of Punjab’s Legislative Assembly in 1926. During the 1937 elections, when Barrister Jinnah started reconstructing the All India Muslim League, Iqbal was with him. In fact, it was Iqbal who urged Mohammad Ali Jinnah to come back from England and take over the reins of All India Muslim League (AIML). His 1930 Allahabad address became famous and significant in the history of subcontinent because it drew clear lines between Muslims and Hindus. He foresaw clear differences between the two, and pushed ahead Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s Two-Nation Theory making it the basis for Pakistan Movement, which resulted in the creation of Pakistan.
Iqbal’s Role in Reawakening of Muslims
In order to motivate the people, particularly the youth, Iqbal used his poetry as a tool for inspiration. His reawakening drive rested on the concept of equality, justice, and freedom. He opposed exploitation, and condemned imperialism.  
Iqbal’s Poetry
Iqbal’s poetry is known for its profound philosophical depth and spiritual insight. His work in both Persian and Urdu explores self-discovery, spirituality, and revitalization of Islamic thought.
Here are some of Iqbal’s famous poetical works which played pivotal role in the Muslim reawakening:
Bang-e-Dra: His famous Urdu poetry collection “Bang-e-Dra” (The Call of the Marching Bell) ignited a sense of pride and identity in the Muslims of subcontinent.
Zarb-e-Kalim: (The Rod of Moses) is considered as a declaration of war against old and obsolete ideas, and also a call for revolution.
Payam-e-Mashriq: His book in Persian poetry “Payam-e-Mashriq” (The Message of the East) was a response to German Philosopher Goethe’s book “West-östlicher Diwan”. Through this work, he defended the Eastern philosophical values.
Javid Nama: (The Book of Eternity), written in Persian, it is one of Iqbal’s spiritual masterpieces, depicting a mystical journey of ‘self-discovery’.
Iqbal’s Poems: ‘Shikwa’, ‘Jawab-e-Shikwa’: This famous poetic dialogue ‘Shikwa’ (Complaint) and ‘Jawab-e-Shikwa’ (Response to the Complaint) depicts a Muslims’ grievance towards God, and God’s response to him. Both poems created a revolutionizing storm in the hearts of Muslims. 
Iqbal’s Philosophy
Iqbal’s philosophical ideas emphasized empowerment and spiritual reawakening. He urged Muslims to rise above narrow sectarianism and embrace dynamic understanding of Islam that fosters creativity, moral integrity, and social justice.
Iqbal’s Concept of ‘Khudi’
Iqbal’s philosophy of ‘Khudi’ (self-discovery) emphasizes self-realization, urging young ones to harness their potential and become agents of change. He urges the youth:
خودی کو کر بلند اتنا کہ ہر تقدیر سے پہلے
خدا بندے سے خود پوچھے بتا تیری رضا کیا ہے
Lift your ‘self’ to such heights that even before destiny determines your fate, 
God Himself asks, “Tell me, what is it that you desire?”
His philosophy of ‘Khudi’ urges us to strive for excellence, uphold moral integrity, and pursue a path of enlightenment and self-discovery, echoing the essence of his profound teachings and vision for a better tomorrow. He advocated for revival of Islamic thought and moral regeneration, encouraging Muslims to reconnect with their faith. He believed in the unity of Muslim world and often wrote about solidarity among Muslim nations.
Iqbal’s Concept of ‘Shaheen’
Iqbal’s poetry mainly addresses the youth, inspiring them to take charge of their destiny and be the leaders of tomorrow. He uses the symbol of ‘Shaheen’ (eagle) for the youth as a powerful representation of his ideals. ‘Shaheen’ embodies the spirit of freedom, ambition, and self-soaring aspiration. Iqbal employs this majestic bird to epitomize the Pakistani youth’s journey towards self-realization and their pursuit of lofty goals. He compares youth with ‘shaheen’ and urges the children to grow and act like an eagle, which is a charismatic bird whose attributes of valor, grace, speed, hunting skills, endurance, domination, and freedom infuse a daring spirit in the youth. 
نہیں تیرا نشیمن قصر سلطانی کے گنبد پر
تو شاہیں ہے بسیرا کر پہاڑوں کی چٹانوں میں
Thy abode is not on the dome of a royal palace;
You are an eagle and should live on the rocks of mountains.
تو شاہیں ہے پرواز ہے کام تیرا
تیرے سامنے آسماں اور بھی ہیں
You are an eagle; flight is your vocation:
You have other skies stretching out before you.
Iqbal’s Lectures
Iqbal’s lectures in “The Reconstruction of Religious Thought in Islam” reflect his views on modernity and the need for reinterpreting Islamic principles. He envisioned the ideal Muslim as someone who balances spiritual enlightenment with practical wisdom and leadership.
Iqbal & Education
His vision for educating the youth and children emphasizes critical thinking, spiritual development, and the synthesis of Eastern and Western knowledge. His ideas continue to influence educational reforms, promoting a holistic approach to learning. He stressed the need for modern scientific education to create well-rounded individuals. He encouraged students to question, and seek knowledge beyond conventional boundaries.
Influence of Western Thinkers on Iqbal
Iqbal admired the ideas of German philosophers Friedrich Nietzsche, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, and Immanuel Kant. He also drew on French philosopher Bergson’s concept of creative evolution. Above all, he considered Maulana Jalaluddin Rumi as his spiritual guide. In his poetry, he frequently gives reference to Rumi’s teachings on love, spirituality and the ‘Self’. His poetry conveys a message of divine love and urges the humanity to seek closeness with God through inner purity and self-discipline.
Iqbal’s Global Impact
Iqbal’s poetry has great impact on the Muslim and non-Muslims of the world. His philosophy has a profound influence on Iranian scholars and thinkers. His poetry and philosophical works have been translated into multiple languages, extending his reach beyond South Asia. World reformers and modernists cite Iqbal’s work as a foundational source for harmonizing Islam with modernity.
Iqbal and Contemporary Pakistan
In today’s Pakistan, Iqbal remains a symbol of patriotism, intellectual leadership, and moral integrity. His dream for Pakistan was of a just, morally sound state that upheld Islamic values and nurtured intellectual freedom. His emphasis on self-reliance, justice, and education remains highly relevant as Pakistan faces socio-political challenges. His ideas continue to serve as a unifying force for the diverse cultures and languages within Pakistan.
Iqbal’s Enduring Legacy
Allama Iqbal’s shining legacy shall continue to remind us of the ideals and aspirations that shaped our nation’s identity. His philosophy, rooted in self-realization, moral integrity, and intellectual freedom will inspire generations of thinkers, scholars and ordinary citizens. His words, through poetry and prose, remain timeless, speaking not just to the past but offering profound lessons for the present and future of Pakistan.