Iqbal Day

Iqbal Day is a public holiday observed annually on November 9th in Pakistan. It commemorates the birth anniversary of Sir Muhammad Iqbal, widely regarded as the "Poet of the East" (Shair-e-Mashriq) and the "National Poet" of Pakistan.

The holiday is observed with various events, including seminars, conferences, lectures, and poetry recitations, highlighting Iqbal's life, philosophy, and contributions to literature, politics, and the Pakistan Movement. Government institutions, educational institutions, and cultural organizations often organize special programs to celebrate his legacy.

Iqbal's poetry and philosophical works, such as Asrar-i-Khudi, Rumuz-i-Bekhudi, Bang-i-Dara, Bal-i-Jibril, Zarb-i-Kalim, and Payam-i-Mashriq, are central to the celebrations. His ideas on self-realization (Khudi), Islamic philosophy, and the need for a separate Muslim state in British India are often discussed and analyzed.

While traditionally a national holiday with government-declared public holiday status, there have been periods when its status as a full public holiday was either altered or temporarily suspended due to various reasons, including austerity measures or policy changes. Despite any changes in its official holiday status, Iqbal Day continues to be observed and celebrated by many in Pakistan as a significant occasion to honor his contributions.