Padma Shri Surjit Patar: A Beacon of Punjabi Literature and Culture-- he respectfully returned the Award in November 2020, in solidarity with Farmers' Agitation.
A Stalwart Poet Passes Away
Surjit Patar, a luminary in Punjabi poetry and a distinguished author and critic, passed away peacefully in sleep at the age of 79. Renowned for his profound contributions to Punjabi literature, Patar's demise marks the end of an era for the literary world. His work, deeply rooted in the heart of Punjab, resonated with people across generations, making him a beloved figure in the realm of regional and national literature.
Championing Punjabi Arts and Literature
Surjit Patar's deep-rooted commitment to the promotion of Punjabi arts and culture was evident through his active involvement and leadership in key cultural institutions. He held prestigious positions such as the President of the Punjab Arts Council in Chandigarh and the President of the Punjabi Sahit Akademi in Ludhiana, showcasing his dedication to the literary landscape of Punjab. Patar also contributed academically as a Professor of Punjabi at Punjab Agricultural University in Ludhiana, sharing his knowledge and passion until his retirement in 2004. His legacy was further cemented when he was appointed as the Chairman of the Punjab Arts Council in 2017, where he continued to advocate for and nurture Punjabi arts and literature, making substantial contributions to the cultural vitality of the region.
Early Life and Literary Journey
Born in 1945 in Patar Kalan village of Jalandhar district in Punjab, Surjit Patar's literary journey commenced early and spanned over six decades. His poetic collections such as "Sade Samian De Vehre" (ਸਾਡੇ ਸਮਿਆਂ ਦੇ ਵੇਹੜੇ), "Satluj De Kinarey" (ਸਤਲੁਜ ਦੇ ਕਿਨਾਰੇ), and "Sohne Sohne Shehar" (ਸੋਹਣੇ ਸੋਹਣੇ ਸ਼ਹਿਰ) are renowned for their lyrical elegance and the vivid imagery of Punjab they evoke. Patar’s profound connection with his heritage is palpable in every verse he wrote, encapsulating the essence of Punjab’s landscapes and the spirit of its people.
Voice of the Voiceless
Patar was not just a poet of aesthetic expressions but also a courageous voice that addressed socio-political issues. Through his writings, he championed the rights of Punjabis, tackling themes of social injustice and political repression. His poetry became a platform for advocacy, reflecting his commitment to societal change and cultural preservation.
Preserving Heritage at Virasat-e-Khalsa, Anandpur Sahib
Surjit Patar was instrumental in the development of the Virsat-e-Khalsa in Anandpur Sahib, engaging actively in various events, seminars, and cultural programs aimed at promoting the Punjabi language and literature, leading up to its inauguration in November, 2011. Although he never held an official position at the Kendra, his involvement and contributions were significant.
Renowned for his literary prowess, Patar provided critical literary insights and support for the Kendra's initiatives focused on preserving and promoting Sikh heritage and culture. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in vetting the script used for voice guidance for tourists, ensuring its literary quality and historicity alongside a panel of eminent Sikh scholars. His efforts helped enrich the visitor experience, connecting them more deeply with Sikh traditions and history.
Honours and Legacy
In recognition of his significant impact on Punjabi literature, Surjit Patar was honoured with the prestigious Padma Shri in 2004, and other accolades such as the Sahitya Akademi Award and Punjab Gaurav Puraskar followed. These awards are a testament to his mastery of the Punjabi language and his enduring influence on the cultural landscape.
-
-
KBS Sidhu, IAS ( Rtd), Former Special CS Punjab
kbssidhu@substack.com
Phone No. : 111111111111
Disclaimer : The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the writer/author. The facts and opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of Babushahi.com or Tirchhi Nazar Media. Babushahi.com or Tirchhi Nazar Media does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.