Iran joined Pakistan in celebrating the 149th birth anniversary of renowned poet and philosopher Allama Muhammad Iqbal on Monday, November 9, with tributes highlighting his influence on Persian literature and his contribution to cultural ties between the two countries.
Large portraits of Allama Iqbal and selections from his Persian poetry were displayed along several streets in Tehran to mark the occasion, reflecting the continued appreciation of his literary and intellectual legacy in Iran.
Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan Reza Amiri Moghadam also paid tribute to the great poet on behalf of the Iranian government and people.
In his message, the ambassador said Iqbal’s exceptional command of the Persian language had helped establish strong intellectual, cultural and spiritual connections between Pakistan and Iran.
He noted that these shared traditions continued to strengthen relations between the two neighbouring countries.
The Iranian ambassador also highlighted Iqbal’s philosophy of unity, faith and self-awareness, saying his message went beyond geographical boundaries and remained relevant to the wider Muslim world.
Iqbal’s connection with Persian literature has played an important role in making his poetry and philosophical ideas widely recognised in Iran. His Persian works continue to attract interest among scholars, literary circles and readers.
Separately, the ECO Cultural Institute organised a literary conference titled “Sun of the East” in Tehran on November 9 to explore Iqbal’s literary contributions, philosophical ideas and place in Persian literature. The programme included participation by diplomats, academics, researchers and poets from the region.
The commemorations highlighted how Iqbal’s intellectual legacy continues to provide a cultural link between Pakistan and Iran, bringing their literary and spiritual traditions closer.
