Iqbal

Iqbal is a masculine given name and surname of Arabic origin, meaning “prosperity”, “fortune”, or “success”. It is commonly used in South Asia, the Middle East, and among Muslim communities worldwide. The name may also appear in variant spellings such as Iqbal, Iqbāl, or Iqbal‑Al‑Shahi.

One of the most prominent bearers of the name is Allama Muhammad Iqbal (1877–1938), a philosopher, poet, and politician who is regarded as the spiritual founder of Pakistan. His poetry, composed in Urdu and Persian, emphasizes self‑realization, the revitalisation of Islamic thought, and the idea of a united Muslim polity. Iqbal’s philosophical works, notably “The Reconstruction of Religious Thought in Islam,” explore the compatibility of Islam with modernity and promote a dynamic interpretation of the faith. He served as a member of the All‑India Muslim League and inspired the demand for a separate nation for Muslims in the Indian subcontinent.

Beyond the poet‑philosopher, many notable individuals carry the name Iqbal. In the fields of science and technology, Iqbal Z. Ahmad is a Pakistani mathematician known for contributions to number theory. In politics, Iqbal C. Khan served as a senior minister in the government of Pakistan. The name also appears in sports, with cricketer Iqbal Ahmed representing Bangladesh at the international level.

As a surname, Iqbal is found throughout the diaspora and is often associated with families tracing their lineage to Arab traders or scholars. Cultural references to Iqbal appear in literature, film, and music, reflecting the name’s widespread resonance across diverse societies.