Majlis-e-Iqbal, the Jeddah-based literary organization dedicated to the promotion of Iqbal's poetry and philosophy, held its monthly sitting at a local restaurant here, recently. Dr. Muhammad Saeed Karim Beebani was the chief guest while Athar Abbasi presided over the event. Hamid Islam Khan anchored the proceedings. The programme started with Qari Muhammad Asif's recitation from the Holy Qur'an. Muhammd Sher Afzal presented a na'at written by Allama Mohmmad Iqbal. Muhammad Nawaz Janjua and Ahmad Bin Zubair, a student of Pakistan International School, Jeddah recited Iqbal's poem: "Muslim hain ham watan hai sara jahan hamara" i.e. We are Muslims and the whole world is our homeland. Known poet and community figure Dr. Muhammad Saeed Karim Beebani delivered his keynote address focusing on Iqbal's poetry for children. He presented a thorough analysis of all such poems also citing the English stanzas that, in certain cases, inspired the great poet to write those poems. Dr. Beebani emphasized that Iqbal considered the young generation critical for the future of the nation. " Iqbal's poems for children carry a strong character-building message that the reader cannot miss" said the chief guest. Amir Khurshid, chairman Majlis-e-Iqbal expressed his appreciation for Dr. Beebani's thoughtful lecture and also read out the explanation of Iqbal's Persian poem "Anal Haq" sent by Dr. Irfan Hashimi from the United States. President of the Aalami Urdu Markaz, Athar Abbasi, concluded the session by thanking the audience and reciting his verses in the honour of Allama Mohammad Iqbal.
