The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has officially announced a bank holiday on November 9, 2023, in observance of Allama Iqbal Day. This decision aligns with the earlier announcement made by the Government of Pakistan.
In a circular released by the State Bank of Pakistan, it was stated, “The State Bank of Pakistan will be closed on Thursday, November 9, 2023, in observance of the public holiday marking Allama Iqbal Day, as per the Government’s directive.”
As a result of this declaration, all commercial banks in Pakistan will also remain closed on November 9 (Thursday) and will resume their operations on November 10 (Friday).
The Federal Government previously issued a notification, declaring a public holiday across the country on November 9, in honor of Iqbal Day. This decision has now been extended to include the closure of banks on the same day.
Federal Government Declares November 9 As Public Holiday To Celebrate Iqbal Day
Earlier, the federal government officially declared November 9 as a public holiday in observance of Iqbal Day. This decision was announced through a notification issued by the Cabinet Division on Friday.
November 9 is celebrated as “Iqbal Day” throughout the country to commemorate the 146th birth anniversary of Dr. Allama Mohammad Iqbal. Dr. Iqbal played a pivotal role in inspiring millions of Muslims across the subcontinent to aspire to an independent homeland where they could freely practice Islam.
The day typically begins with special prayers in mosques for the progress and prosperity of Pakistan. Dr. Iqbal, known as the “Poet of the East” in Pakistan and other parts of the world, was born in Sialkot on November 9, 1877.
Iqbal, an esteemed poet and philosopher, is credited with using his poetry and political influence to advocate for the creation of a separate homeland for Muslims. His Allahabad address in 1930 was a significant moment in pre-partition politics, providing clear direction and a separate identity for Muslims in the subcontinent to strive for the establishment of Pakistan.
In commemoration of Iqbal Day, a Change of Guards ceremony will also take place at his mausoleum in Lahore.
