On 3rd November 2026, Shifa College of Medicine hosted Asrar-e-Khudi, an event devoted to the thought, poetry, and philosophy of Allama Muhammad Iqbal. It was a joint initiative of the Longitudinal Theme of Pakistan Studies and the Shifa Debating Society, organised by Dr Umme Kulsoom Khattak under the lead of Prof Dr Ashraf Hussain. The event brought together distinguished speakers and students to reflect on Iqbal’s intellectual legacy, examine the lasting relevance of his poetry, and revisit his vision of personal and collective transformation.
The session began with an insightful address by Mr Munir Fayyaz, a distinguished poet, literary critic, translator, and educationist, whose reflections offered a deeper appreciation of Iqbal’s enduring impact on society.
The second speaker, Mr Abid Iqbal Khari, founder of the Positive Pakistan Foundation, spoke on Iqbal’s vision for youth development, leadership, and responsible citizenship. After an interactive session with the students, he reflected on Iqbal’s intellectual curiosity and sense of purpose, encouraging the youth to aspire to higher ideals.
The final address was delivered by Dr Shaheer Ellahi, Associate Professor at the Health Services Academy, Ministry of National Health Services, and a PhD in Medical Anthropology from Quaid-i-Azam University. He explored the philosophical and spiritual dimensions of Iqbal’s poetry, highlighting its roots in Islamic teachings and intellectual wisdom, and urged the audience, particularly the younger generation, to draw on Iqbal’s philosophy to build an enlightened, responsible, and progressive society.
A video presentation of Allama Iqbal’s iconic poems Shikwa and Jawab-e-Shikwa was screened, bringing his powerful verse to life and leaving the audience deeply moved.
Adding a spirited and celebratory dimension to the programme, a Bait Baazi competition gave students the opportunity to showcase their familiarity with and appreciation of Iqbal’s poetry. The wholehearted participation brought the audience closer to the beauty and richness of his verse.
The event concluded with closing remarks by Prof Dr Mohammed Amir, Dean FHS, and Prof. Dr Ashraf Hussain, Chairman BHS, who reflected on the lasting significance of Iqbal’s poetry and its power to inspire introspection, intellectual growth, and social responsibility. They encouraged students to engage more deeply with his philosophy and translate its timeless lessons into values and actions that shape a stronger, more conscious, and progressive community.
The event concluded with the presentation of shields to the speakers and cash prizes to the winners of the Bait Baazi competition.
Asrar-e-Khudi paid meaningful tribute to Allama Iqbal’s legacy, reaffirming the relevance of his message and the power of ideas to transform individuals, communities, and the nation.
