Peterborough’s Allama Iqbal Festival concludes this week with a programme celebrating culture, creativity and connection. Running until 10th November, the festival invites people from across Peterborough to explore the life and poetry of Sir Allama Iqbal, the philosopher and poet recognised as the national poet of Pakistan.
A community-led partnership between Peterborough Presents, Gladstone Connect Ltd, Pakistan Community Association Peterborough, Landmark Theatres, Peterborough Music Hub, Salaam Radio, ARU Peterborough, The Beeches Primary School, Gladstone Primary Academy, the National Literacy Trust, local residents and Iqbal scholars, this is the festival’s second year. Organisers hope to make it an annual celebration in the city.
But Iqbal’s work is about more than poetry. His ideas explore the potential within every person, the importance of social justice, and our connections with nature and the world around us. His messages of self-discovery, imagination and standing up for what matters continue to inspire people today. The festival brings these ideas to life through music, art, food, writing and opportunities for people to come together.
Tuesday 10 November – Lunchtime Talks: Navigating Iqbal, 12–1.30pm, ARU Living Lab, Bishop’s
Road, PE1 5BW. Free, informal talks from local people with personal connections to Iqbal or his
work, delivered in a mixture of English and Urdu. Open to the public; booking essential.
The Community Panel said: “The Allama Iqbal Festival is about bringing people together, and creating opportunities for everyone to get involved. Iqbal’s ideas about creativity, justice and believing in people’s potential still mean something today. You don’t need to know his poetry to be part of the festival — just come along, get involved and discover something new.”
Everyone is welcome, whether they’re discovering Iqbal for the first time, keen to celebrate their heritage, looking for family activities, or simply curious to try something new. For more information, booking details or to find out how to support the festival,. Visit www.peterboroughpresents.org.uk for further information.
