LAHORE: The dignified ceremony was held at the Mausoleum of Allama Iqbal in Lahore on Saturday to indicate the traditional change of guards, as a contingent of the Pakistan Navy assumed duties from the Pakistan Rangers (Punjab).
Furthermore, the event, held with customary solemnity and precision, featured Rear Admiral Sohail Ahmed Azmi, Commander Central Punjab of the Pakistan Navy, as the chief guest.
In addition, Rear Admiral Azmi inspected the smartly turned-out contingents of both the Pakistan Navy and the Pakistan Rangers.
He commended their discipline, dedication, and commitment to upholding the nation’s traditions and values.
The well-trained Pakistan Navy personnel formally took charge of the honorary guard duties, the outgoing Punjab Rangers contingent handed over responsibilities with dignity.
The occasion symbolized respect for Pakistan’s rich heritage and paid homage to the national poet and philosopher, Allama Muhammad Iqbal.
Moreover, the ceremony, attended by officials, students, and members of the public, was marked by military decorum and national pride.
It mentioned the continued reverence for Iqbal’s contributions to the ideological foundation of Pakistan and his lasting influence on the nation’s identity.
In addition, he was born on November 9, 1877, in Sialkot, Allama Iqbal pursued his early education locally before studying at Government College Lahore and later in the United Kingdom and Germany.
He was recognized as the “Poet of the East,” his writings focused on self-awareness, unity, and empowerment ideals that continue to inspire generations of Pakistanis and people across the world.
Additionally, visitors to Iqbal’s mausoleum can also view his preserved personal belongings, including his writing desk, chair, bed, and hookah offering a glimpse into the personal life of the visionary thinker whose philosophy shaped the idea of Pakistan.
However, the annual guard change ceremony serves not only as a military tradition but also as a symbolic gesture of national respect for Allama Iqbal’s enduring legacy.
It indicates the armed forces’ commitment to preserving Pakistan’s cultural and ideological heritage while reminding the nation of Iqbal’s vision of self-reliance and unity.
President Asif Ali Zardari, in his message on Iqbal Day, confirmed that Iqbal’s vision continues to shape Pakistan’s identity and guide its path toward progress and prosperity.
