The Family and Personal Life of Allama Iqbal
Zodiac Sign: Scorpio (Born on November 9)
Let’s start with a fun fact—Allama Iqbal was a Scorpio, born on November 9, 1877.
Scorpios are known for their intense passion, deep thinking, and ability to inspire others—all traits that perfectly describe Iqbal. He wasn’t just a thinker; he was someone who could ignite the hearts of millions. His resilience, determination, and visionary outlook on life are classic Scorpio qualities.
November 9 is celebrated as Iqbal Day in Pakistan every year. It’s not just a date—it’s a reminder of the legacy he left behind. Schools, universities, and intellectual forums across the country mark the day with events honoring his life and work.
Family Background: Middle-Class Kashmiri Family with Strong Spiritual Beliefs
Iqbal’s family roots give us a glimpse into the values that shaped him.
Middle-Class Roots:
Iqbal came from a middle-class Kashmiri family. His ancestors were originally Brahmins from Kashmir who converted to Islam many generations before his birth. Despite their humble financial status, the family was rich in spiritual and intellectual traditions.
A Spiritual Household:
Iqbal’s father, Sheikh Noor Muhammad, was a deeply spiritual man. Though he worked as a tailor to support the family, he was known for his wisdom and piety. This spiritual atmosphere at home influenced Iqbal’s early life, nurturing his interest in Islamic philosophy and mysticism.
The Kashmiri Connection:
Iqbal always held a special place for Kashmir in his heart, often mentioning its beauty and culture in his poetry. His connection to Kashmir wasn’t just ancestral—it was deeply emotional.
Father: Sheikh Noor Muhammad
Iqbal’s father, Sheikh Noor Muhammad, played a pivotal role in shaping his character.
Noor Muhammad wasn’t formally educated, but he was known for his spiritual insight. People in the community often came to him for guidance.
How He Inspired Iqbal: Noor Muhammad’s emphasis on spirituality and inner reflection became central to Iqbal’s philosophy. He instilled in Iqbal the importance of faith, humility, and hard work.
Iqbal once said that his father taught him to seek God within himself, a lesson that heavily influenced his concept of Khudi (selfhood).
Their Bond, Iqbal was deeply attached to his father and often credited him for his success. Noor Muhammad’s simple yet profound wisdom became a guiding light in Iqbal’s life, shaping the values that would later define his poetry and philosophy.
Mother: Imam Bibi
Iqbal’s mother, Imam Bibi, was a woman of extraordinary character. Let’s talk about her influence:
Imam Bibi was a religious and humble woman who managed the household with grace. Despite their modest means, she ensured that her children grew up in an environment filled with love, discipline, and spiritual teachings.
Imam Bibi Role in Iqbal’s Life, she was the backbone of the family, providing unwavering support to Iqbal. Her nurturing nature and strong moral compass left a lasting impression on him.
Iqbal often credited his mother’s duas (prayers) for his achievements, believing that her piety brought blessings into his life.
When Imam Bibi passed away in 1914, it was a heartbreaking moment for Iqbal. He wrote an elegy in her memory, expressing his deep sorrow and gratitude for her sacrifices.
Siblings: Elder Brother and Younger Siblings
Iqbal grew up in a household with several siblings, each contributing to his formative years.
Elder Brother: Sheikh Ata Muhammad
Ata Muhammad was the eldest sibling and took on many responsibilities to support the family.
He helped fund Iqbal’s education, recognizing his younger brother’s extraordinary potential. This financial and emotional support allowed Iqbal to focus on his studies and eventually become the icon we celebrate today.
Younger Siblings:
Iqbal also had other siblings, including Sheikh Abdul Aziz and others, who were part of the tight-knit family. While not much is documented about their individual contributions, the collective support of his family created a strong foundation for Iqbal’s success.
Marriage: Married Three Times
Iqbal’s personal life, especially his marriages, gives us a glimpse into the challenges and responsibilities he navigated alongside his professional and intellectual journey.
First Wife: Karim Bibi
Iqbal married Karim Bibi in an arranged marriage in 1895. She was from a well-respected family, and while their marriage was traditional, it wasn’t entirely harmonious.
Due to differences in their personalities and Iqbal’s increasing focus on his intellectual pursuits, the marriage eventually grew distant. Though they didn’t live together later in life, Iqbal continued to support her financially.
Second Wife: Sardar Begum
Iqbal’s second marriage was to Sardar Begum, who shared a deeper connection with him.
Sardar Begum was a source of comfort and understanding for Iqbal during his most intellectually productive years. She supported him as he navigated his literary, political, and philosophical work.
Third Wife: Mukhtar Begum
Mukhtar Begum became Iqbal’s third wife, and though there’s limited documentation about her role, it’s evident that Iqbal carried great responsibility for his family life.
Children: Aftab, Javed, and Muneera
Iqbal was a devoted father, and his relationship with his children sheds light on his compassionate and caring nature.
Aftab Iqbal (Elder Son):
Aftab was Iqbal’s eldest son, and while he wasn’t as publicly known as his younger brother, he played an important role in maintaining the family’s legacy.
Javed Iqbal (Younger Son):
Javed Iqbal is perhaps the most famous of Iqbal’s children. He became a prominent judge, scholar, and intellectual, carrying forward his father’s legacy.
Iqbal named him after his poetic masterpiece Javed Nama (Book of Eternity), symbolizing hope, continuity, and the eternal spirit of youth.
Iqbal often addressed Javed in his poetry, writing pieces filled with advice, wisdom, and aspirations for the younger generation.
Muneera Bano (Daughter):
Muneera was Iqbal’s daughter, and while she stayed away from the public eye, she was cherished deeply by her father.
Iqbal’s family life adds depth to his story. Behind the powerful philosopher and poet was a man shaped by his parents’ spirituality, his siblings’ support, and his own struggles and responsibilities as a husband and father. These experiences weren’t separate from his work—they were central to his growth as a thinker who could empathize with both the personal and collective struggles of humanity.