Surjit Patar: A Stalwart Poet Passes Away

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.

Dr. Surjit Patar receiving the Padma Shri award in 2012. (Image courtesy of Facebook @Surjit Patar)

Returning “Padma Shri”: A Stand for Solidarity with Farmers

In November 2020, in a striking act of solidarity, Dr. Surjit Patar chose to return his Padma Shri award, reflecting his deep empathy and support for the farmer community engaged in protests. His decision, motivated by the perceived insensitivity of the central government toward the farmers' demands, underscores his commitment to social justice and advocacy through action. This poignant gesture highlights not only his alignment with the agricultural community but also his readiness to relinquish one of India's highest civilian honors to voice dissent against policies affecting those on the ground.

An Inspiring Legacy

Surjit Patar's passing is a profound loss to Punjabi literature and its cultural heritage. However, his legacy is immortalised in his poetic works, which continue to inspire and influence new generations of writers and poets. His voice, through his poetry, will continue to resonate, celebrating the richness of the Punjabi language and the indomitable spirit of its people.

In mourning his loss, the literary community and his admirers remember Surjit Patar not just for his words, but for the powerful ideas and emotions they conveyed. His poetry, etched in the annals of Punjabi literary history, will forever serve as a beacon for those who seek to explore the depth of human emotion and the complexities of societal issues through the beauty of words.

Surjit Patar RIP.