November 9 is recognized as Iqbal Day, a significant occasion to honor the work of the legendary poet and philosopher Allama Iqbal. His legacy continues to inspire generations, especially in Pakistan. As this important date approaches, many are curious whether Iqbal Day will be declared a public holiday in 2024, particularly since it falls on a Saturday.
The history of Iqbal Day as a public holiday has been turbulent. It was suspended in 2015 but reinstated in 2022, raising hopes that this year will follow suit, especially after the Cabinet Division announced November 9 as a public holiday last year.
According to the official list of holidays for 2024, Iqbal Day is marked for observance, indicating that events will take place as scheduled. Educational institutions traditionally host celebrations on this day, where students recite Iqbal’s poetry and engage in discussions about his contributions to Pakistan’s cultural heritage.
While there has been no official announcement from the government regarding this year’s holiday status, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has released a list of holidays for 2024 that includes Iqbal Day, suggesting it will be observed.
Allama Iqbal was born on November 9, 1877, in Sialkot and played a pivotal role in inspiring the Pakistan independence movement through his poetic vision. His works are celebrated worldwide and have been translated into numerous languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, and English, establishing him as a modern Sufi poet and philosopher. Sadly, Iqbal passed away on April 21, 1938, before witnessing the independence of Pakistan.
As Iqbal Day approaches, the public remains optimistic for a government announcement confirming the holiday status, allowing citizens to celebrate and honor the legacy of this great thinker and poet.
