ISLAMABAD June 23( ) Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) through its Iqbal Chair on Muslim and Sufi Thought organized a scholarly session as part of the celebrations marking the 150th birth anniversary of the Poet-Philosopher of the East, Allama Muhammad Iqbal.Renowned Iqbal scholar Dr. Qamar Iqbal delivered a keynote lecture on “Haqeeqat-e-Abadi Hai Maqam-e-Shabeeri” (The Eternal Reality of the Hussaini Spirit) shedding light on various dimensions of Iqbal’s philosophy of selfhood (Khudi), his message of freedom and the enduring significance of the tragedy of Karbala.The session was presided over by Prof. Dr. Abdul Aziz Sahir, Head of the Iqbal Chair. Addressing the participants, he emphasized the importance of promoting Iqbal’s thought, poetry and philosophy among the younger generation.
He announced that the Iqbal Chair would launch a regular weekly lecture series to encourage scholarly engagement with Iqbal’s intellectual legacy. He added that the lecture held today marked the beginning of this initiative and distinguished scholars, intellectuals and researchers would be invited to participate in future sessions.Dr. Abdul Aziz Sahir further stated that Allama Iqbal’s masterpiece “Javid Nama” enjoys a unique and distinguished position in world literature. He announced that the Iqbal Chair would soon introduce a three-month academic course on Javid Nama, enabling students, teachers, researchers and admirers of Iqbal’s thought to gain a deeper understanding of one of the most significant works in Urdu and Persian literature.In his lecture, Dr. Qamar Iqbal observed that in Iqbal’s view, the “Hussaini Spirit” represents truth, righteousness, perseverance and steadfast resistance against oppression. He noted that the progress and prosperity of nations are possible only when they embrace the ideals of Imam Hussain (AS) and stand firmly for justice and truth.He further explained that Iqbal regarded the event of Karbala as a timeless symbol of human dignity, freedom and moral courage.
According to him, Karbala teaches humanity to accept every sacrifice made in the cause of truth and justice with courage and conviction and never to surrender before falsehood or tyranny.The speakers concluded by reaffirming their commitment to promoting Iqbal’s message of selfhood, freedom and ethical leadership through academic, research and educational activities, ensuring that future generations remain connected with the intellectual and spiritual legacy of Allama Muhammad Iqbal
