Iqbal Hall at Badshahi Mosque to serve as intellectual hub for Iqbal studies: secretary Auqaf

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 11th Apr, 2026) Secretary and Chief Administrator Auqaf Punjab Dr Ehsan Bhutta has said that the establishment of Iqbal Hall within the historic Badshahi Mosque complex is a visionary initiative aimed at institutionalizing the philosophy of Allama Dr Muhammad Iqbal for present and future generations.

He was addressing participants at the First Conference on Teaching Allama Iqbal’s thought, held at the newly established Iqbal Hall, here on Saturday.

The event was attended by Brig (R) Prof Dr Waheed uz Zaman Tariq, Khateeb Badshahi Mosque Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad, Administrator Shahid Hameed Virk, officers of the Auqaf Department, and faculty and students of Jamia Hajveria.

Dr Ehsan Bhutta said the project is not merely a conventional archival or conference facility but a dynamic intellectual and spiritual centre dedicated to promoting Iqbal’s concept of the “Reconstruction of Religious Thought in islam.”

He highlighted that a key feature of the initiative is the preservation and display of Tabarrukat-e-Islami within the mosque complex, including rare manuscripts of the Holy Qur’an, historic Islamic calligraphy, and other sacred artifacts.

He said Iqbal Hall would focus on promoting the concept of Khudi (selfhood), encouraging self-realization, moral strength, and purposeful action. He added that Iqbal’s philosophy emphasizes Amal (action), urging individuals and nations to actively shape their destiny.

Dr Ehsan Bhutta further said the centre would highlight Iqbal’s concept of Mard-e-Momin, representing an ideal personality marked by intellectual depth, moral integrity, and spiritual elevation. He noted that this concept reflects a blend of modern thought and the spiritual teachings of Sufi traditions. He added that the symbolic philosophy of Shaheen would also remain central, inspiring youth towards ambition, resilience, and excellence.

The secretary said Iqbal Hall is equipped with modern facilities, including a digital research library, rare manuscript archives, and advanced information systems, providing a platform for scholars, students, and international visitors. He added that dedicated spaces for research and academic dialogue would ensure continuous scholarly engagement in Iqbal studies, Islamic philosophy, and regional heritage.

Dr Ehsan Bhutta said the initiative reflects the Punjab government’s commitment to preserving intellectual, cultural, and spiritual heritage while linking it with contemporary thought for the guidance of future generations.

Other speakers, including Brig (R) Prof Dr Waheed uz Zaman Tariq and Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad, also highlighted the importance of promoting Iqbal’s teachings.

At the end of the conference, participants visited the Tabarrukat Gallery and the historic Badshahi Mosque complex.