dna
ISLAMABAD: The federal government has declared Monday, November 9, a nationwide public holiday to mark Allama Muhammad Iqbal’s birth anniversary (Iqbal Day), according to the annual public holidays schedule issued by the Cabinet Division.
All government offices, educational institutions, and public-sector organizations across the country will remain closed on the occasion. The State Bank of Pakistan has also announced that it will remain closed on November 9 in observance of the public holiday.
The decision effectively restores official observance of Iqbal Day, which had ceased to be observed as a regular nationwide public holiday during previous governments. The move has been welcomed by many who regard Allama Iqbal as the ideological architect of Pakistan and one of the most influential poets and philosophers of the Muslim world.
Born on November 9, 1877, in Sialkot, Allama Iqbal’s vision and poetry played a significant role in inspiring the Pakistan Movement. Every year, seminars, conferences, and literary events are organized across the country to pay tribute to his contributions.
As November 9 falls on a Monday, employees and students observing a Saturday-Sunday weekend will enjoy a three-day break, with normal activities resuming on Tuesday, November 10.
