Celebrating Iqbal’s Vision and the Path Forward for Pakistan
Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi recently emphasized that Pakistan is a living embodiment of Allama Iqbal’s dream and vision. Iqbal, a philosopher and poet, played a pivotal role in awakening nations and teaching them how to think, live, and believe in themselves. According to Abbasi, the solution to Pakistan’s current challenges lies in embracing Iqbal’s philosophy. He expressed these views while addressing a dignified event held on Iqbal Day at the S.M. Munir Auditorium of ICCI. The event was organized by the Nazriya-e-Pakistan Council, Pakistan Cultural Forum, and the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI).
The event was hosted by Sardar Tahir Mehmood, President of ICCI, and Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, President of the Pakistan Cultural Forum. Notable participants included Zafar Bakhtawari, Chairman of the Pakistan Cultural Forum; Tahir Ayub, Senior Vice President of ICCI; Chaudhry Irfan Gujjar, Vice President; Owais Satti, President of the Islamabad Chamber of Small Trade and Small Industry; former Islamabad Commissioner Tariq Pirzada; and various ICCI Executive Members such as Zulqarnain Abbasi, Malik Abdul Aziz, Naveed Satti, Roohail Anwar Butt, and Waseem Chaudhry.
A Nation Rising with Pride
During his address, Hanif Abbasi highlighted that the slogan “Pakistan Zindabad” is now being raised globally because Pakistan has earned recognition worldwide. He stressed that by integrating Iqbal’s concept of Khudi—selfhood—into our actions, policies, and collective thinking, we can overcome any challenge. Iqbal likened youth to Shaheens, noble, strong, and purpose-driven eagles. Abbasi paid tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the nation’s security, stating, “Our Shaheens skillfully shot down Indian fighter jets.”
He also announced that the Islamabad-Iran-Istanbul train service will begin on December 31, 2025, and urged the business community to support its success. Additionally, train services from Kazakhstan to Afghanistan and Chaman will start soon, along with the Chaghi-Nokkundi-Karachi track project.
Embracing Iqbal’s Philosophy
ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mehmood emphasized that hope and thought are the essence of Iqbal’s message. He called upon the youth to understand Iqbal’s philosophy of selfhood and contribute to the nation’s progress through determination, hard work, and strong character. He added that Pakistan today is striving for economic stability, transparent governance, and social harmony.
Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, President of the Pakistan Cultural Forum, noted that Iqbal addressed youth as Shaheens. If we can guide today’s youth onto the right path and instill in them the spirit of Khudi, they can achieve any goal. He pointed out that Hanif Abbasi himself is a living example of this—starting his political journey from the streets of Rawalpindi, he became an MNA and minister through self-belief and determination.
Bakhtawari further emphasized that along with the philosophy of selfhood, the philosophy of sacrifice is equally vital. Pakistan currently faces internal and external threats, but its Shaheens have given a historic response to any adversary who dared to look at Pakistan with ill intent. He said that if the Muslim Ummah unites under Iqbal’s vision with Pakistan as its center, Pakistani leadership has the capacity to lead the nation and the Ummah out of crises.
Iqbal’s Legacy and the Importance of Faith
Former Commissioner Tariq Pirzada highlighted that Iqbal’s greatness stemmed from his love for the Holy Prophet (PBUH). He was a true lover of the Prophet, and the essence of Islam revolves around the personality of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). “Whoever has the dust of Madinah and Najaf in his eyes sees only truth,” he said.
Pirzada added that Iqbal’s lesson of selfhood teaches that one sincere prostration frees a person from a thousand meaningless ones. Those who understand the Prophet’s reality fear none but Allah. According to Iqbal, slavery is the most despicable state in the universe. To strengthen faith, one must study Iqbal’s philosophy.
A Call to Action
ICCI Senior Vice President Tahir Ayub stated that if we implement Iqbal’s philosophy of selfhood, we can make our nation one of the most respected in the world.
The event’s stage secretary, Shahbaz Chauhan, recited verses of Iqbal’s poetry, stirring national spirit among the audience.