LAHORE: Nation on Saturday observed the 142nd birth anniversary of poet of the East and philosopher, Hakeemul-Ummat, Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal with great national zeal and fervor across the country.
Various literary, educational, political, social and cultural organizations have arranged special programmes to pay homage to the national poet and highlight different aspects of his life and teachings.
Allama Iqbal conceived the idea of Pakistan and is, therefore, regarded as one of the founding fathers of the country.
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Change of guard ceremony held at mausoleum of Allama Iqbal
Meanwhile, a graceful change of guard ceremony was held at mausoleum of Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal in Lahore.
A smartly turned out contingent of Pakistan Navy took charge of the guard duties.
Station Commander of Pakistan Navy, Commodore Naimatullah Khan, who was the chief guest of the ceremony, laid floral wreath at the Mazar and offered fateha.
He also noted down his impressions on the visitors book.
President Dr Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan have said that it is high time to revert to the message of Allama Muhammad Iqbal to find solution to the ills corroding the society and hindering the progress and prosperity.
In their separate messages on 142nd birth anniversary of great philosopher and thinker, Allama Dr. Muhammad Iqbal, they said it is an occasion to recall and pledge for the nation to follow his message of self-awareness and self-esteem.
They said that Muslims of the Sub-continent would always remain indebted to the great visionary leader for his invaluable services.
They said Allama Iqbal infused a new spirit among the Muslims of the sub-continent, changed their thought process and provided them with a solid ideological foundation to strive for regaining their lost identity.
The great leader had also envisioned the idea of a separate homeland for the Muslims of the sub-continent and made remarkable contributions towards understanding the true message of Islam.
The President and Prime Minister urged the nation to pledge on this day to make even greater efforts for the fulfillment of the dream of our forefathers and move forward according to the teachings of Allama Iqbal for the greater good of our society and our beloved homeland.
