Lahore, Nov. 9 — The nation on Sunday commemorated the 148th birth anniversary of Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the philosopher-poet and visionary whose ideas laid the foundation for Pakistan’s creation. A dignified change of guard ceremony was held at Iqbal’s mausoleum in Lahore to mark the occasion.
A smartly turned-out contingent of the Pakistan Navy assumed ceremonial guard duties from the Pakistan Rangers (Punjab) during the event, according to a statement issued by the Directorate General Public Relations (Navy).
Rear Admiral Sohail Ahmad Azmie, Commander Central Punjab, presided over the ceremony as chief guest. He laid a floral wreath at the mausoleum on behalf of Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, officers, sailors, and civilian personnel of the Navy, and offered fateha for the national poet. The event was attended by dignitaries, military officials, students, and members of the public.
Born in Sialkot on November 9, 1877, Dr Iqbal is remembered for his philosophical thought and his vision for an independent homeland for Muslims in the Indian subcontinent. His works in Persian and Urdu continue to influence generations in Pakistan and beyond.
Change of Guard ceremony held at his mausoleum, with Pakistan Navy taking over duties from Pakistan Rangers. https://t.co/2Y3zUhtf0H
— Dawn.com (@dawn_com) November 10, 2025
In separate messages marking the anniversary, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif renewed their commitment to Iqbal’s foundational principles.
President Zardari said Iqbal’s political philosophy and emphasis on distinct representation for Muslims left a “lasting imprint on Pakistan’s national identity.” He described Iqbal as a thinker whose message continues to inspire national unity and self-reliance.
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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called Iqbal’s teachings “universally relevant,” highlighting their emphasis on brotherhood, love, and justice. He added that government initiatives to empower youth were aligned with Iqbal’s vision of a dynamic, self-aware younger generation shaping Pakistan’s future.
Throughout the country, cultural and educational institutions also held seminars, exhibitions, and poetry recitations to pay tribute to Iqbal’s intellectual and ideological legacy.
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