The event titled "The Light of Iqbal Studies in Türkiye" was held on February 3, 2025, at the Auditorium Hall of NUML University under the auspicious of Iqbal Academy Pakistan. The guest speaker was an international scholar Professor Dr. Abdul Hameed Abreishiq. The event was presided over by Mr. Zia Humayun Cheema, Regional Director of the National University of Modern Languages (New Campus, Lahore). Dr. Abdul Rauf Rafiqui, Director, Iqbal Academy Pakistan delivered words of gratitude.
Dr. Abdul Hameed Abreishiq stated that Allama Iqbal had a profound admiration for the Turks, as evident from his poetry, where he frequently mentioned Türkiye and Turkish leaders. During the Turkish national struggle, Iqbal's poetry played a remarkable role in boosting their morale, which is highly commendable. Iqbal serves as a golden link in the chain of the Subcontinent’s affinity with Türkiye. Turkish intellectuals and writers have not only translated Iqbal’s works into the Turkish language but have also extensively discussed his personality and literary contributions. Notable names in this regard include Mehmet Akif, Ali Nihad Tarlan, Dr. Celal Soydan, and Ahmed Albayrak.
Allama Iqbal’s philosophy of "Khudi" (Selfhood) greatly influenced the oppressed Muslim communities of the Third World. He provided guidance not only in political but also in religious, social, and intellectual spheres. According to Iqbal, by adhering to Islamic principles and embracing modern knowledge and ideas, Muslims can conquer the world.
Mr. Zia Humayun Cheema emphasized that efforts made at both national and international levels to promote Iqbal's ideology in educational institutions will serve as a guiding light for the younger generation. He stressed the importance of connecting the youth with Iqbal’s philosophy.
Mr. Khalid Abbas Asadi, who had arrived from Madinah Munawwarah, also shed light on Iqbal’s ideology.
Dr. Abdur Rauf Rafiqi expressed his gratitude to the esteemed guests, stating that Allama Iqbal is regarded as one of the most significant and influential personalities of the Islamic world in the 20th century. He added that Iqbal was also recognized and acknowledged in the West. He highlighted that Iqbal Academy is utilizing all available resources to introduce the younger generation to the global academic work on Iqbal’s ideology.
At the conclusion of the event, Dr. Abdur Rauf Rafiqi presented shields to all distinguished guests.