Indians in Saudi Arabia pay tributes to poet Iqbal

The Indian community in Saudi Arabia has paid tributes to Urdu poet Muhammad Iqbal for his rich contribution to poetry and Islamic awareness in the world.

A cultural evening "Mahfil-e-Iqbal" was organised by Tanzeem Hum Hindustani, a voluntary, non-profit and non-religious organisation of overseas Indians, the Arab News reported Wednesday.

Expatriates from India, Pakistan and other countries attended the function.

Pakistani poet Jawaid Akhtar Jawaid was the chief guest, while Akhtarul Islam Siddiqui, president of the Middle East Non-Resident Indian Association, was the keynote speaker.

The experts said Iqbal's poetry, including the famous "Sare Jahan se Acchha", inspired people to rise against the tyranny of the British.

Iqbal was born Nov 9, 1877, and died April 21, 1938. He is known for his literary work in both Urdu and Persian languages.