Staff Reporter:
QUETTA: November 9 marks Iqbal Day, a day dedicated to honoring the legacy of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the celebrated poet and philosopher whose ideas continue to shape Pakistan’s national identity.
As the date approaches, the public eagerly awaits confirmation on whether it will be observed as a public holiday, particularly since it falls on a Saturday this year.
Iqbal Day has had an on-and-off history as a public holiday. Initially suspended in 2015, it was reintroduced in 2022, and last year, the Cabinet Division recognized it as a holiday, sparking hopes for a similar decision in 2024.
The official holiday schedule for 2024 already includes November 9 as an observance, which suggests that Iqbal Day festivities will go forward.
Educational institutions often mark this day by organizing special events, where students recite Iqbal’s poetry and discuss his lasting impact on Pakistan’s cultural heritage. While anticipation grows, an official notification is still awaited, leaving citizens to speculate on the final status of the holiday.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs had listed November 9 as a holiday for its missions in early 2024, indicating its observance within diplomatic offices. However, until the government issues an official declaration, the question remains: will Iqbal Day 2024 be a public holiday?
