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Iqbal and Afghanistan: A Vision for Unity and Stability in Asia

Allama Muhammad Iqbal was more than just a poet or philosopher; rather, he was a visionary. He believed Afghanistan was key to Asia’s stability. Moreover, his deep connection with the Afghan people and their resilience further shaped his thoughts on regional unity and peace.

Let’s dive into how Iqbal’s vision still resonates today, from Kabul to the world

Iqbal’s Historic Journey to Kabul

The connection of Iqbal to Afghanistan was not accidental but born out of respect for its history, culture, and people. He admired their unwavering independence. Furthermore, he viewed Afghanistan as the “heart of Asia,” a nation whose stability was crucial for peace in the region. In 1933, upon the invitation of King Nadir Shah, Iqbal traveled to Kabul. He was accompanied by notable figures Syed Sulaiman Nadwi and Ra’as Masood.

At Kabul’s Dilkusha Palace, Iqbal and King Nadir Shah shared an iconic moment where Iqbal, six years older than the King, kissed his hand as a sign of respect. Iqbal would later describe this meeting in poetic terms:

جانم از سوزِ کلامش در گداز
دست او بوسیدم از راه نیاز

(“His burning speech set my soul on fire; I kissed his hand out of a yearning desire.”)

During his visit, Iqbal expressed profound admiration for Afghan traditions and their indomitable spirit. At Babur’s tomb, he composed:

خوشا نصیب که خاک تو آرمید اینجا
که این زمین ز طلسم فرنگ آزاد است
هزار مرتبه کابل نکوتر ز دلی است
که آن عجوزه عروس هزار داماد است

(“You [Babur] are lucky that your clay rests here, for this land [Kabul] is free from the European spell. Kabul is a thousand times better than Delhi, which has become the bride of a thousand grooms.”)

Also See: Asbiyat and Contemporary Pak-Afghan Dynamics

Afghans as Symbols of Strength and Freedom

Iqbal saw Afghans as a symbol of strength and freedom, essential for the future of the Muslim world. His respect for Afghan resilience was further immortalized in his poem written for Kabul Journal, titled “Message to the Dwellers of the Mountains” (1932).

It reflected his belief that the people of Afghanistan were the guardians of their destiny and key to shaping a prosperous future for the region.

Afghanistan as the Heart of Asia’s Stability

Iqbal’s foresight about Afghanistan’s significance in global politics was encapsulated in his famous statement: “Asia is a body, and Afghanistan its heart; if Afghanistan is unstable, Asia will be unstable.”

This philosophy remains relevant today, as Afghanistan continues to play a central role in regional geopolitics.

Iqbal’s Lasting Influence

The admiration for Iqbal extends beyond his poetry. The founder of Kabul Magazine, Prof. Sarwar Khan Goya, called Iqbal the ‘master’ and ‘guide’ of all Urdu and Persian poets. Goya’s respect for the work of Iqbal highlighted the intellectual and cultural exchange between Afghanistan and the subcontinent.

Iqbal’s influence continues in Afghan academic circles, where his works are studied for their profound insights into unity, self-determination, and resilience.

Iqbal's works are studied for their profound insights into unity, self-determination, and resilience.
Iqbal’s works are studied for their profound insights into unity, self-determination, and resilience.

Iqbal’s Vision for Youth

One of the most lasting impacts of Iqbal’s vision is on the youth of both Pakistan and Afghanistan. He believed they were the key to realizing his dream of a strong, united, and peaceful Muslim world.

His iconic poem “Tolu-e-Islam” in Baang-e-Dara reflects this message, urging young Muslims to embrace self-reliance, unity, and faith in their abilities.

Inspiring Afghanistan’s Youth

In light of these historical connections, it’s worth noting that the admiration for Iqbal endures. His thoughts on Afghanistan, unity, and self-reliance continue to be a beacon of hope and inspiration for Afghan youth and intellectuals.

The youth of Afghanistan today are the torchbearers of Iqbal’s vision, keeping his legacy alive through their passion for his teachings.

Iqbal’s Enduring Love for Afghanistan

Through this journey from his philosophical musings to his political insight, Iqbal’s love for Afghanistan remains a cornerstone of his vision for an empowered Asia.

The stability of Afghanistan is central to the future of the entire region—a sentiment that continues to echo through time, inspiring unity and hope for generations to come.

Iqbal’s love for Afghanistan remains a cornerstone of his vision for an empowered Asia. [PAYF]
Iqbal’s love for Afghanistan remains a cornerstone of his vision for an empowered Asia. [PAYF]

For a deeper dive into our Iqbal event in Kabul and the celebrations of his legacy, check out our event memory: Iqbal Day

PAYF Insights are social media threads by various authors, reproduced here for wider consumption.

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