Impact of Iraj Mirza’s Philosophy of "Strength and Survival" on Allama Muhammad Iqbal’s Poetry: A comparative Study

Abstract

This study aims to explore the impact of Iraj Mirza's philosophy of strength and survival on Allama Muhammad Iqbal's poetry through a comparative analysis. The early 20th century witnessed significant social and political transformations in both Iran and the Indian subcontinent, prompting poets and writers like Iraj Mirza and Iqbal to shift their focus towards societal issues. Both poets, influenced by global events such as the French Revolution and anti-colonial movements, emphasized the themes of strength and survival in their works, albeit from distinct perspectives. Iraj Mirza, a key figure in the Iranian Constitutional Movement, used his poetry to critique societal norms and encourage individuals to resist social pressures through inner strength. On the other hand, Iqbal's philosophy of strength was rooted in the concepts of khudi (selfhood), faith, and the collective revival of the Muslim ummah. For Iqbal, survival depended on self-awareness and collective action to rebuild a new world, where only the strong can thrive in the face of modern challenges. This comparative analysis highlights how both poets, while addressing similar themes, reflect their distinct socio-political contexts, with Iraj focusing on social critique and Iqbal on spiritual and communal rejuvenation.