Iqbal Hall at Badshahi Mosque inaugurated as visionary center to promote Allama Iqbal’s philosophy

By Our Correspondent

LAHORE: Secretary/Chief Administrator Auqaf Punjab Dr. Ehsan Bhutta has underscored that the establishment of the prestigious Iqbal Hall within the historic Badshahi Mosque complex represents a visionary and intellectually transformative initiative aimed at institutionalizing the profound philosophy of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal for contemporary and future generations.

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He was addressing the participants on the occasion of the First Conference on Teaching Allama Iqbal’s held at the newly established Iqbal Hall in the Badshahi Mosque complex. Brig (R) Prof. Dr. Waheed uz Zaman Tariq, Khateem Badshahi Mosque Molana Abdul Khabeer Azad, Administrator Shahid Hameed Virk, Officers of Auqaf Department and Principal, Teachers and 30 Students of Jamia Hajveria also attended the conference.

Dr. Ehsan Bhutta stated that the project goes far beyond the creation of a conventional archival or conference facility; rather, it has been conceived as a dynamic intellectual and spiritual centre dedicated to advancing Iqbal’s revolutionary idea of the “Reconstruction of Religious Thought in Islam.” A significant and highly distinguished feature of this initiative is the careful preservation and dignified display of Islamic relics (Tabarrukat-e-Islami) within the Badshahi Mosque complex, including rare manuscripts of the Holy Qur’an, centuries-old Islamic calligraphy, and other invaluable sacred artifacts, which have been conserved with great reverence for their spiritual, historical, and educational significance.

Highlighting the philosophical foundation of the initiative, Dr. Ehsan Bhutta stated that Iqbal Hall will focus on the promotion and deeper understanding of the doctrine of Khudi (Selfhood)—the principle of self-realization, moral strength, and inner empowerment that enables individuals to transcend limitations through purposeful action and spiritual discipline. He emphasized that Iqbal’s philosophy places strong emphasis on Amal (action), urging individuals and nations to actively shape their destiny rather than remain passive observers.

Dr. Ehsan Bhutta further elaborated that the centre will prominently highlight Iqbal’s concept of the Mard-e-Momin (The Ideal Believer)—a model of human excellence characterized by intellectual depth, moral integrity, and spiritual elevation. He noted that this ideal personality represents a synthesis of modern intellectual engagement and the spiritual wisdom of the East, particularly the teachings of great Sufi saints, resulting in a balanced, enlightened, and value-driven human character.

He added that the symbolic philosophy of the Shaheen (Eagle/Falcon) will remain central to the intellectual narrative of the Hall, inspiring youth to adopt ambition, resilience, independence, and continuous striving for excellence in all fields of life.

Dr. Bhutta further stated that Iqbal Hall is equipped with a state-of-the-art digital research library, rare manuscript archives, and advanced information systems, making it a modern centre of learning for scholars, students, and international delegations. Dedicated spaces for research, academic briefings, and intellectual discourse will ensure continuous scholarly engagement on Iqbal studies, Islamic philosophy, Sufism, and South Asian heritage.

Concluding his remarks, Dr. Ehsan Bhutta reaffirmed that the initiative reflects the Government of Punjab’s strong commitment to preserving Pakistan’s intellectual, cultural, and spiritual heritage. He emphasized that by integrating Iqbal’s philosophy with the preservation of Islamic relics, the project ensures a powerful continuity between sacred history and contemporary thought, inspiring future generations towards a dynamic, progressive, and spiritually grounded society. The conference was also addressed by Brig (R) Prof. Dr. Waheed uz Zaman Tariq, Khateeb Badshahi Mosque Molana Abdul Khabeer Azad and others who also highlighted the teaching of Iqbal.At last, students of Jamia Hajveria alongwith other participants visited Tabarrukat Gallery and historical Badshahi Mosque.