Why is Allama Iqbal called the "Poet of the East"?

Allama Iqbal is called the "Poet of the East" (Shair-e-Mashriq) because his poetry awakened the Muslim Ummah, inspired self-realization, and promoted Islamic values in the subcontinent.

What was Allama Iqbal’s role in the creation of Pakistan?

Iqbal envisioned a separate Muslim state in his 1930 Allahabad Address, which later became the foundation for the Pakistan Movement. He is regarded as the spiritual father of Pakistan.

What is the concept of "Khudi" in Iqbal’s philosophy?

"Khudi" (selfhood) is Iqbal’s philosophy that emphasizes self-awareness, self-respect, and inner strength, urging individuals to realize their potential and lead with confidence.

Which are Allama Iqbal’s most famous works?

Some of his most famous books include Bang-e-Dra, Bal-e-Jibril, Zarb-e-Kalim, and Asrar-e-Khudi, which contain his thought-provoking poetry and philosophy.

How is Allama Iqbal remembered today?

Iqbal is remembered as a national poet, philosopher, and thinker. His poetry is widely studied, and his contributions are honored annually on Iqbal Day (9th November) in Pakistan

Manqabat Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal (R.A)

2025-04-12

Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal – The Poet of the East

Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal, widely known as the “Poet of the East” (Shair-e-Mashriq), was one of the most influential thinkers, poets, and philosophers in the Muslim world. He played a key role in awakening the spirit of self-awareness and unity among Muslims of the Indian subcontinent. His poetry, philosophical thoughts, and political vision laid the foundation for the idea of a separate homeland for Muslims — which eventually became Pakistan.

Who Was Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal?

Dr Allama Iqbal was born on 9th November 1877 in Sialkot, Punjab (now in Pakistan). He received his early education in Sialkot and later studied in Lahore. He then went abroad to further his education, earning a degree in Philosophy from Cambridge University and a doctorate from the University of Munich. Iqbal was also a qualified barrister from Lincoln’s Inn, London.

Philosopher, Poet, and Visionary Leader

Iqbal’s poetry was more than just artistic expression — it was a call to action. He emphasized self-realization (Khudi), spiritual revival, and unity among the Muslim Ummah. Through his thought-provoking verses, he encouraged Muslims to rise above slavery and reclaim their lost glory.

Major Contributions of Allama Iqbal

1. Revival of Muslim Identity

Iqbal played a vital role in reviving the Muslim identity in British India. He believed that the spiritual and intellectual decline of Muslims could only be reversed through education, unity, and a return to Islamic values.

2. The Concept of "Khudi"

Iqbal introduced the concept of "Khudi" (selfhood), which stressed the importance of self-respect, self-awareness, and inner strength. He urged individuals to understand their true potential and not be mere followers of Western materialism.

3. Idea of a Separate Muslim State

Iqbal is regarded as the spiritual father of Pakistan. In his famous Allahabad Address in 1930, he clearly envisioned a separate homeland for Muslims in the northwest of India. He said:

"I would like to see the Punjab, North-West Frontier Province, Sind and Baluchistan amalgamated into a single state."

This idea inspired the Pakistan Movement and eventually led to the creation of Pakistan in 1947.

Legacy of Allama Iqbal

Dr Allama Iqbal’s legacy is deeply embedded in the history and identity of Pakistan. He is remembered as:

Shair-e-Mashriq (Poet of the East)
Hakeem-ul-Ummat (Sage of the Ummah)
Spiritual Father of Pakistan
A philosopher who bridged Eastern spirituality with modern thought

His poetry is widely read and recited in schools, literary circles, and national ceremonies across the country. His ideas continue to inspire generations in their pursuit of justice, self-respect, and national pride.

Manqbat About Allama Iqbal

Famous sufi poet, Wasif Ali Wasif has written manqbt about Allama Iqbal:

As-Salam ae Millat-e-Islamiya ke Jaan Nisaar

As-salam ae millat-e-Islamiya ke jaan nisaar

As-salam ae pir-e-Roomi ke mureed-e-baqaar

Woh tasavvur jo tujhe rakhta tha peham beqaar

Is tasavvur ka kya hai kis ne daaman taar taar

Rang o boo mein ud gayi hai us chaman ki aabroo

Jis chaman mein thi tere naghmaat se fasl-e-bahaar

Arizo ka mudda kya tha? Shikast-e-arizo?

Karwan ko kya hua hasal bajoz gard o ghubar

Kis ki ghaflat se shikasta ho gaye jaam o sabu

Maikade ka maikada kyun ho gaya hai sogwaar

Aah ae Iqbal tu waqif na tha is raaz se

Is watan ke raahbar tujh ko karenge sharm saar

La ilaha ke dam se tha mere watan ka ittehaad

La ilaha ko chhodne ka hai nateja inshaar!

Ae Khudi ke raazdaan faryad hai faryad hai

Tukde tukde ho gaya tera anokha shahkaar!

Ae shareek-e-zumrah la yahzanun tu hi bata,

Naujawanan-e-chaman kyun ho gaye hain ashkbaar

Iftikhar-e-mulk o millat shaair-e-Islam sun!

Yaad karte hain tujhe Lahore ke leil o nahaar

Shama-e-azadi jo teri fikr se roshan hui

Azm-e-taaza maangti hai hurriyat ki yaadgaar

Kya kahe Wasef ke yeh Iqbal ka paighaam hai

Hoshyaar-e-ahl-e-junoon, ahl-e-khurd se, hoshyaar

These masterpieces continue to inspire Muslims around the world and stand as pillars of Iqbal’s intellectual and poetic legacy.

Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal was not just a poet; he was a visionary who lit the path toward freedom and self-realization for the Muslims of the subcontinent. His timeless poetry and thought-provoking philosophy continue to ignite hearts and minds even today. He remains a symbol of hope, dignity, and intellectual brilliance.

May we continue to learn from his teachings and strive to build a society based on justice, knowledge, and unity. Ameen.