Every year on November 9, Pakistan remembers the poet-philosopher Allama Muhammad Iqbal, known for his inspirational poetry and ideas that ignited the movement for Pakistan’s independence. This day is marked to honor his legacy, but in recent years the public holiday has seen ups and downs, leaving many Pakistanis wondering if 2024 will bring a day off for Iqbal Day.
The official gazette included Iqbal Day as a public holiday for 2024, but as of yet, there’s no final notification from the federal government. This leaves people curious if the government will stick to the list or make an unexpected change. Last year, November 9 was declared a holiday, reviving the tradition, but the uncertainty persists as we approach this year’s date.
Born on November 9, 1877, in Sialkot, Iqbal’s poetry pushed for a separate Muslim state in the subcontinent, making him an unforgettable name in Pakistan’s history. His works, resonant with deep spiritual and philosophical themes, reached beyond borders and have been translated into Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, and English.
Iqbal’s vision lives on, and though he didn’t witness Pakistan’s birth, his words continue to inspire. As Pakistan awaits the official decision, many hope this November 9 will offer a chance to reflect on Iqbal’s legacy with a nationwide holiday, celebrating the thinker who dreamed of a free and empowered nation.
