In today’s world, Iqbal’s ideas remain strikingly relevant. Iqbal being our revolutionary poet has written poetry that has influenced Pakistani generations. Although his poetry was written in a vastly different era, his thoughts on selfhood, empowerment, and spiritual awakening continue to resonate deeply with modern women of our time. The philosophy of ‘Khudi’ is about self-perseverance, it’s about realisation of one’s potential that extends beyond the conformation of societal norms and their limitations. Since women are carving out their paths in both personal and professional spheres, Iqbal has related to them in modern society while focusing on empowerment, intellectual growth, and self-realisation.

Women are recognized as the moral foundation upon which societies are built. Considering their fundamental role in Islamic society, a woman’s influence is unparalleled in shaping the character and spiritual well-being of her family, especially her children. Iqbal’s poetry reflects a deep connection with women as nurturers of our society.  Through her nurturing, a woman contributes to the development of future leaders, thinkers, and creators, which helps in building an entire nation.
Islam elevates the spiritual status of both men and women through its principles, which place immense value on the dignity and strength of women. Women’s empowerment is intertwined with the intellectual and moral advancement of humanity.
Woman as the “Heart” of Civilization
One of Iqbal’s most profound ideas is that women are the “heart” of civilization. Women should feel empowered for society’s progress. A nation’s moral and spiritual strength is reflected in the position and treatment of its women. Women, according to Iqbal, play a pivotal role in shaping the moral compass of society, as they are the first educators within a family. Their influence is not confined to the household, but extends into the community, moulding future generations with values of integrity, compassion, and spiritual insight.
Iqbal’s philosophy sees women as an agent of change capable of contributing to the intellectual and ethical transformation of society. His poetry has always embraced a very strong vision for women to rise towards the forefront of leadership, creativity, and moral stewardship, which will eventually shape a future that is grounded in dignity, equality, and self-realisation. 
Fundamentally, Khudi is recovery of the individual’s ability to reason and recognize towards building themselves. So, the value of self for Iqbal is not a synthesis of being selfish but it is an essence of being ‘by itself’ or simply, the being. He invited people through the cultivation of Khudi so, people can be free from the shackles of society and be master of their own without the feeling of guilt and humiliation. 
Khudi in Action for Women
Modern women are immensely empowered. Khudi can be adopted by women to embrace themselves. Be more self-reliant in personal and professional spheres. This philosophy encourages women to take control of their narratives, pursue education, and develop skills that allows them to contribute meaningfully to society. It lifts their morale, helps them trust their instincts, make independent choices, and navigate their careers with confidence, breaking away from traditional roles of dependency. Whether she is a mother, an entrepreneur, a student, or a leader, the principles of Khudi encourage her to seek excellence, not by competing with others, but by striving for her own growth and fulfilment.
Challenging Gender Norms
Iqbal’s writings plays a significant role in addressing the subjugation of women and restrictions imposed on them. His philosophy of the emancipation of women’s rights suggests that women should equally be defined in their ability to think, create, to lead. Considering the fact that modern society offers female more androgynous roles compared to earlier forms of society, Khudi empowers women to come out of their traditional roles and fully participate in making their own contribution towards the development of the world.
An enlightened woman of today is assuming leadership roles, and exceling in fields once dominated by men. Her voice resonates in arenas where once she was unheard, and her intellect shines as she redefines her influence, breaking barriers with confidence and conviction. Thus, she realises Iqbal’s concept of selfhood is a work of being progressive, active, spiritual, and functional for the advancement of the community.
Key Verses from Iqbal’s Poetry and Interpretation for Today
Self-Discovery and Independence

Dive deep into your own self, 
it is the very secret of life;
If you don’t want to be mine, don’t be, 
but at least become your own.

In the first verse, Iqbal urges a man to plunge into his own self and awaken to his own true identity. It is quite applicable to every woman of the present generation by holding a particular message of working on one’s self and being unique. Iqbal himself said to women, to emancipate themselves and seek what they want in life. It is a liberation, a step towards ‘being on your own,’ and to change into the kind of person you want to be despite the restraints. It can be easily read today as a kind of advice to young women to go for what they want, follow their intuition, and make decisions confidently.
The Role of Women in Shaping Society

The picture that this world presents from woman gets its tints and scents:
She is the lyre that can impart pathos and warmth to human heart.
In this verse, Iqbal masterfully celebrates the divine place of women in the universe, emphasizing that the heartbeat of life resides in them. He restored women to their rightful place, highlighting their significant role in society. It reinforces the notion that women are not only homemakers and caregivers, but also inventors, experts, and entrepreneurs, whose input is incredibly valuable towards the growth of society.
Empowerment Through Action

The sign of a living nation is that their destinies change with each passing dawn and dusk

Iqbal’s message is clear: healthy societies are those in which people actively strive for new and better life; these societies according to him are sustainable societies. The modern woman can effectively link it to both individual as well as group progression. Whether it is fighting for promotion in the workplace, changing gender perceptions, or seeking success in education and careers.
Self-Elevation and Autonomy

Elevate your selfhood to such heights that, 
before every decree of fate,
God Himself will ask you: 
What is it that you desire?

It is arguably one of Iqbal’s most quoted verses, for he asserted that Khudi is the place where man becomes his own dictator. To the woman of today, the verse above may encourage to chase her dreams, break the walls of the cage, and design her own life. The process of self-determination is especially useful for women; it gives them the control they need in their everyday lives. It empowers women to go for what they want because they have the ability to dictate what will happen to them. HH

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