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Allama Iqbal - The Poet of the East

Published on October 7, 2025

While Ghalib explored the philosophical depths of personal existence, another giant of Urdu poetry, Sir Muhammad Iqbal, turned his gaze outwards to the destiny of entire civilizations. Known as Allama Iqbal and revered as the "Poet of the East" (Shayar-e-Mashriq), his poetry was not for mere entertainment; it was a powerful call to action.

The Core Philosophy: Khudi (The Self)

The central theme of Iqbal's work is the concept of Khudi (خودی). This is often mistranslated as "ego," but Iqbal's Khudi means something far deeper: self-realization, self-respect, and unlocking the divine potential within oneself. He urged individuals—and by extension, nations—to rise above subservience and discover their own strength.

His ideal human is symbolized by the **Shaheen** (شاهین), the royal falcon. Unlike birds that are content in gardens, the Shaheen flies high, builds its nest on mountains, and hunts for itself. It represents independence, vision, and a life of dynamic action rather than passive acceptance.

A Call to Greatness

This concept is powerfully captured in one of his most famous couplets:

ḳhudī ko kar buland itnā ki har taqdīr se pahle
ḳhudā bande se ḳhud pūchhe batā terī razā kyā hai

(Elevate your Self to such a height, that before every decree of destiny, / God himself asks his servant, "Tell me, what is your will?")

Reading Iqbal is an invigorating experience. Where other poets might console you in your sorrow, Iqbal challenges you to rise above it. His legacy is not just in his beautiful verse, but in the powerful, universal message of self-empowerment that continues to inspire millions.