Govt Officially Declares 9 November 2025 as Public Holiday for Iqbal Day
In a major national announcement, the Government of Pakistan has officially declared 9 November 2025, as a public holiday in honour of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal — the Poet of the East, Philosopher of Khudi, and ideological father of Pakistan. A notification is being circulated across government departments confirming that all public and private offices, banks, educational institutions, and federal departments will remain closed nationwide.
The restoration of Iqbal Day as a public holiday has been widely welcomed by students, scholars, and patriotic citizens who consider Iqbal’s philosophy a guiding force for Pakistan’s unity and revival. The day will be observed with special conferences, school competitions, prayer ceremonies, and national broadcasts to highlight Iqbal’s message of self-respect, faith, and action.
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Why 9 November is Celebrated as Iqbal Day
Allama Muhammad Iqbal (1877–1938) was not just a poet — he was the visionary who first presented the idea of an independent Muslim state in South Asia through his historic 1930 Allahabad Address. His poetry ignited the spirit of freedom among Muslims of the subcontinent and inspired Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah to lead the Pakistan Movement.
His powerful message still resonates with youth today:
“Nations are born in the hearts of poets; they prosper and die in the hands of politicians.”
“The ultimate aim of the ego is not to see something, but to be something.”
Iqbal Day is therefore not just a memorial — it is a national reminder of the purpose behind Pakistan’s creation.
History of Iqbal Day Holiday — Removed & Now Restored
For decades, Iqbal Day was observed as a national public holiday across Pakistan. However, in 2015, the holiday was unexpectedly removed from the federal holiday calendar, triggering public backlash. Many believed that a nation that forgets its thinkers loses direction.
Due to consistent public demand, the holiday was gradually reinstated at provincial and institutional levels, and now in 2025, the federal government has formally restored 9 November as an official nationwide holiday once again.
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What Will Be Closed on Iqbal Day 2025?
According to government sources, the following will remain officially closed on 9 November 2025:
✔ Government Offices (Federal, Provincial & Local)
✔ Banks & Financial Institutions
✔ Educational Institutes — Schools, Colleges, Universities (Public & Private)
✔ Courts & Administrative Departments
✔ Stock Markets (Likely short trading hours or closure notification pending)
However, emergency services, hospitals, and essential services will operate as usual.
How Will Pakistan Observe Iqbal Day 2025?
Across Pakistan, institutions are expected to organise:
- Speech competitions & essay contests in schools on “Iqbal and Youth”
- Documentaries & Poetry Recitals on PTV and Radio Pakistan
- Special Friday sermons on Iqbal’s philosophy
- University seminars on his concept of Khudi (Self-Awareness) & Ijtihad (Reforms)
Social media campaigns will also trend hashtags such as #IqbalDay, #9NovemberHoliday, and #WakeUpYouth.
Iqbal’s Message to the Youth of Pakistan
Allama Iqbal placed immense trust in the youth, calling them “Shaheen” (Eagles) — strong, visionary, and fearless.
Some of his most inspirational quotes for today’s generation include:
“You are the eagle destined to fly — do not dwell in the nests of sparrows.”
“The person who recognizes his own worth will never be defeated.”
“Take the lead — Allah hasn’t created you to follow others.”
FAQs — Iqbal Day 2025 Public Holiday
1. Is 9 November 2025 a public holiday in Pakistan?
✅ Yes. The government has officially declared it a nationwide public holiday.
2. Will schools remain closed on Iqbal Day 2025?
✅ Yes, all public and private educational institutions will remain closed.
3. Are banks closed on Iqbal Day?
✅ Yes, banks and financial institutions will observe the holiday.
4. Will there be any trading on the Pakistan Stock Exchange?
⚠️ Either full closure or limited trading hours — official PSX notification expected soon.
5. Is Iqbal Day celebrated only in Pakistan?
No. Iqbal is honoured internationally, especially in Iran, Turkey, and among global scholars of Islamic philosophy.
6. What is the significance of Iqbal Day?
It is a tribute to the man who dreamed of Pakistan and a reminder to reconnect with national identity and purpose.
Conclusion — A Day to Reconnect with Our Ideals
The declaration of 9 November 2025 as a national holiday is more than a day off — it is a call for reflection and revival. Pakistan today faces economic, social, and ideological challenges, and the best source of guidance lies in Iqbal’s vision of self-respect, courage, and unity.
