Lahore, July 14, 2025 — A special memorial seminar was organized by Iqbal Academy Pakistan to honor the legacy of its former Director, Mr. Bashir Ahmad Dar, renowned scholar of Iqbal Studies and literary intellectual. The event brought together academics, family members, and admirers to pay tribute to his scholarly contributions and lifelong dedication to the philosophy of Allama Muhammad Iqbal.
Prominent guest speakers included Dr. Absar Ahmad, former Head of the Department of Philosophy at the University of the Punjab; Brig. (R) Prof. Dr. Waheed uz Zaman Tariq, a leading Iqbal scholar; and Professor Shafiq Ajmi, former Head of the Urdu Department at Government College University Lahore.
Mr. Dar’s family members — daughters Ms. Darreshehwar, Ms. Shehzadi Saif, Ms. Lalarukh; son Mr. Junaid Dar; granddaughter Dr. Zarka Saif; grandson Mr. Sohaib Zulqarnain; and Dr. Mahjabeen — shared heartfelt recollections of his personal values, intellectual pursuits, and enduring influence in the field of literature and philosophy. The session was ably moderated by Mr. Zaid Hussain.
In his address, Dr. Abdul Rauf Rafiqui, Director, Iqbal Academy Pakistan, expressed deep gratitude to the attendees and highlighted Mr. Dar’s unparalleled contributions. He remarked that Mr. Dar not only significantly expanded the Academy’s library but also elevated the institution into a leading center of scholarly research and publication. Through his writings, Mr. Dar bridged the philosophical traditions of the East and West and devoted his entire life to promoting and interpreting the ideas of Hakim-ul-Ummat Allama Iqbal.
Speakers emphasized that the event was more than a memorial. It served as a platform to reaffirm commitment to transmitting Iqbal’s message to future generations. They noted that Mr. Bashir Ahmad Dar had established a distinguished place in the realm of Iqbal Studies and his absence leaves a void not easily filled.
The event concluded with the presentation of a commemorative shield to Mr. Dar’s family by Dr. Rafiqui. On this occasion, he also announced that similar programs would be held in memory of other former directors of the Academy, to honor their invaluable services and preserve their intellectual legacies.