Chapter 1
ALLAMA IQBAL
His Birth
Allama Muhammad Iqbal was born on 9 November 1877 in Sialkot, Punjab. He belonged to a religious family and showed great interest in education from an early age. He received his early education in Sialkot and later studied at Government College Lahore.
Higher Studies
Iqbal went to Europe for higher studies. He studied at the University of Cambridge in England and later received a degree from the University of Munich in Germany. He became a highly educated scholar, philosopher, and lawyer.
Poetry
Allama Iqbal was a great poet. He wrote poetry in both Urdu and Persian. Through his poetry, he awakened the Muslims of the subcontinent and encouraged them to gain knowledge, unity, and self-respect. Because of his inspiring poetry, he is known as the Poet of the East.
Political Career
Iqbal took an active part in politics and worked for the welfare of Muslims. He believed that Muslims needed a separate homeland where they could live according to their religion and culture.
Idea of Pakistan
In 1930, Allama Iqbal delivered his famous Allahabad Address. In this address, he presented the idea of a separate state for Muslims in the north-western regions of India. His vision later became the foundation of Pakistan.
Death
Allama Iqbal suffered from illness during the last years of his life. He died on 21 April 1938 in Lahore. He was buried near the Badshahi Mosque, where many people visit to pay their respects.
Conclusion
Allama Iqbal is remembered as a great poet, philosopher, and thinker. His ideas inspired the Muslims of the subcontinent and played an important role in the creation of Pakistan.
