Washington D.C, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Masood Khan, recently addressed a special ceremony commemorating Iqbal Day, the birth anniversary of Allama Mohammad Iqbal, Pakistan’s national poet. Ambassador Khan hailed Iqbal as an ideological compass and lodestar for Pakistan, emphasizing his significant contributions as a dreamer of the nation, a poet of extraordinary caliber, and a philosopher with universal appeal.

According to the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington D.C., Ambassador Khan detailed how Iqbal’s visions and ideologies laid the foundational principles for the state of Pakistan. He stressed that Iqbal’s dream has been realized in the formation of the country and continues to guide its direction and policies. As a poet, Iqbal’s influence has extended beyond Pakistan to South Asia, Afghanistan, and Iran, shaping the literary and cultural landscapes of these regions.

Khan also highlighted Iqbal’s philosophical contributions, noting that his ideas transcended regional boundaries and delved into the cosmic and spiritual evolution of the universe. He pointed out that Iqbal’s thoughts on the alliance of civilizations were ahead of their time, pre-dating similar concepts that emerged in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

The ceremony also celebrated the legacy of Syed Sadequain Ahmed Naqvi, a renowned calligrapher, painter, and poet. The Embassy of Pakistan, in collaboration with the International Academy of Letters USA, Sadequain Foundation USA, and Sadequain Gallery of Chicago, organized a photo exhibition to pay tribute to Sadequain’s contributions.

Khan commended Iqbal’s profound understanding of the Quran and Islam, describing him as one of the most authentic interpreters of these religious texts. He noted that Iqbal’s works are often referenced by clerics and scholars to explain complex Islamic thoughts. Emphasizing Iqbal’s universal appeal, Khan remarked that scholars worldwide visit Pakistan to discuss Iqbal’s philosophies, which he characterized as a universal heritage.

In addition to Ambassador Khan, several speakers, including Mr. Ghazanfar Hashmi, Mr. Anwar Iqbal, Dr. Aseef Qadeer, Ex-Senator Akber Khawaja, Mr. Faiz Rehman, and Mr. Riaz Niazi, shared insights into various aspects of Iqbal’s work. They drew connections between Iqbal’s poetry and philosophy and their relevance in the contemporary world.

The event concluded with Ambassador Khan thanking the International Academy of Letters USA, Sadequain Foundation USA, and Sadequain Gallery of Chicago for their collaboration in organizing the commemorative event.