ISLAMABAD:The 149th birth anniversary of national poet Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal was celebrated across the country Monday with national fervour.

Known as the Poet of the East, Allama Iqbal was born in Sialkot on November 9, 1877. He inspired the Muslims of the Subcontinent through his philosophical poetry and political vision, laying the intellectual foundation for a separate homeland for Muslims.

His historic Allahabad Address in 1930 provided a clear political direction to the Muslims of the Subcontinent and strengthened their demand for a separate identity and homeland.

The government has declared November 9 a public holiday across the country. All public and private offices, as well as educational institutions, remained closed to mark the occasion.

Radio Pakistan broadcast special programmes highlighting Allama Iqbal's poetry, philosophy, intellectual contributions and message to the nation as part of the Iqbal Day celebrations.