RAWALPINDI: The Rawalpindi Arts Council (RAC) opened a photography exhibition on Sunday to highlight different aspects of the national poet Allama Mohammad Iqbal’s life in connection with Iqbal Day celebrations.

RAC Resident Director Waqar Ahmed inaugurated the exhibition which was attended by a large number of schoolchildren and general public.

More than 100 rare photos of Iqbal were showcased, which included pictures of Iqbal addressing All India Muslims League and meeting various prominent personalities of the sub-continent. Some pictures captured moments from Iqbal’s personal life.

“The aim of the exhibition is to highlight the efforts made by the ‘Poet of the East’ in making the Muslim homeland of Pakistan a reality.

The younger generation also has the opportunity to gain inspiration from the life of the great poet,” said RAC Resident Director Waqar Ahmed.

He said that the RAC had arranged the two day programme to celebrate Dr Iqbals birth anniversary.

Fateha was offered for Iqbal’s soul.

On Saturday a tableau and singing competition between school students of Islamabad and Rawalpindi was organised by the RAC. Students performed poetic pieces from Iqbal’s work.

The judges’ panel comprised senior artists Khalid Zia Siddiqui and Asif Qamar.

Speaking at the prize distribution ceremony, Senator Najma Hameed said Iqbal’s vision awoke Muslims from a deep slumber, which led to the birth of Pakistan.

Published in Dawn, November 10th, 2014