The literary legacy of iconic Punjabi poet Surjit Patar was honoured on his first death anniversary with a soul-stirring event held at Punjab Kala Bhavan, Sector 16. The tribute was organized by the Punjab Arts Council in collaboration with the Surjit Patar Foundation, Language Department Punjab, and Punjabi Lekhak Sabha.
A Day of Reflection and Reverence
The memorial began with the lighting of a ceremonial lamp, followed by a welcome address by noted thinker Amarjit Garewal. In his address, Swarjit Savi unveiled the Council’s upcoming cultural campaign, ‘Sahon Punjab di’, aimed at celebrating Punjab’s literary heritage.
Renowned scholar Tejwant Gill delivered the Surjit Patar Memorial Lecture, applauding Patar’s deep emotional insight, poetic grace, and his unwavering connection to the common people.
Language and Legacy Through Translation
Adding a multilingual touch, Yojana Rawat from Panjab University recited Hindi translations of Patar’s poignant poetry, highlighting themes of Punjab, its language, and universal human emotions. Gurshaminder Jagpal followed with English translations, making Patar’s words resonate across linguistic borders.
Kavi Darbar and Musical Tributes
The event’s emotional crescendo came during a ‘Kavi Darbar’, with poetic recitations from Gurdev Chauhan (Canada), Swarnjit Savi, Jaswant Zafar, and Jagdeep Sidhu—each capturing Patar’s spirit in their verses.
The evening concluded with a musical homage. Anujot Kaur brought Patar’s ghazals to life with renditions of “Tu? Phulla? Jogi Zamin Rakhi?”, while Manraj Patar performed moving pieces like “Kujh Kiha Ta? Hanera…” and “Ki Khabar si Jagg Tainu Injh…”
The program was seamlessly conducted by Ashwani Chaitley and Yograj Angrish.
A Gathering of Literary Hearts
Among the attendees were Bhupinder Patar, Nirmal Jora, Praveen Kumar, and many admirers, writers, and artists—each reflecting on the enduring power of Patar’s poetry.
