Language and Literature of Punjab | Punjab State (PPSC) PSC: Preparation - PPSC PCS (Punjab) PDF Download

Language of Punjab

Punjabi Language

• Official Language: Punjabi is the official language of Punjab. It is similar to Hindi and is the 10th most spoken language in the world.
• Official Status: Punjabi was made the official language of Punjab on April 13, 1968, under the Punjab Official Language Act, 1967.
• Punjabi in India: Punjabi is the first official language in Punjab and the Union Territory of Chandigarh. It is the second official language in Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Delhi.
• Punjabi in Pakistan: Punjabi is spoken by people in the Punjab region of both India and Pakistan. However, in Pakistan, Punjabi does not have official status; it is recognized as a provincial language.

Historical Development

• Linguistic Roots: Punjabi developed from Sanskrit through various Prakrit languages. Around 600 BC, Sanskrit gave rise to many regional languages in different parts of India. Shauraseni Prakrit, spoken in North and North-Western India, is one of the Prakrit languages that contributed to the development of Punjabi.
• Emergence of Punjabi: Punjabi and the Western dialects of Hindi evolved from Shauraseni Prakrit. Punjabi emerged as an apabhramsa, a degenerated form of Prakrit, in the 7th century AD and became a stable language by the 10th century.
• Language Family: Punjabi is an Indo-Aryan language, which is a branch of the larger Indo-European language family.

Main Dialects of the Punjabi Language

Punjabi has three main dialects: Eastern Punjabi, Western Punjabi, and Pahari or Dogri Punjabi, each with several sub-dialects. Eastern Punjabi, spoken in India, has four sub-dialects.

(i) Majhi

• Majhi is the most significant dialect of Punjabi as it serves as the standard form of the language for general purposes.
• It is spoken in the Majha region of Punjab, which includes the districts of Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Tarn Taran, and Pathankot.
• Majhi is also known as Taxali Boli.

(ii) Malwai

• Malwai is primarily spoken in the Malwai region of Punjab.
• The main districts where it is spoken include Firozpur, Fazilka, Faridkot, Bathinda, Barnala, Sangrur, Mansa, Patiala, Moga, Muktsar, Ludhiana, Ganganagar, Malerkotla, Rupnagar, and Fatehgarh Sahib.
• Malwai is also spoken in some northern districts of Haryana, such as Ambala, Hisar, Sirsa, and Kurukshetra.

(iii) Doabi

• Doabi is spoken in Indian Punjab, specifically between the Beas and Sutlej rivers.
• The districts where Doabi is spoken include Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala, and Nawanshahr.

(iv) Pwadhi

• Pwadhi is spoken in the southern, southeastern, and eastern parts of Punjab.
• The main areas where Pwadhi is spoken include Rajpura, Patiala, Rupnagar, Anandpur Sahib, Kharar, Kurali, Nurpuredi, and Pail.

Other Significant Dialects of the Punjabi Language

The other dialects of the Punjabi language include:

• Shahpur
• Jhangochi or Changvi
• Jangli or Rachnavi (the oldest dialect of Punjabi)
• Pothohari or Pahari-Potowari
• Lehndi
• Hindko
• Dhani
• Jafri or Khetrani
• Chenavari
• Saraiki

These dialects are primarily spoken in Western Punjab, which is now part of Pakistan.

Gurmukhi Script

The Punjabi language is written using the Gurmukhi script. The term “Gurmukhi” comes from the Punjabi phrase “Guru mukhi,” meaning “from the mouth of the Guru.” This script was modified and standardized by Guru Angad Dev Ji, the second Sikh Guru, who improved the order and shape of the letters for greater precision. Gurmukhi represents Punjabi sounds accurately and completely, following a one sound–one symbol principle.

Features of Gurmukhi Script

• Letters: Gurmukhi has 41 letters, including 38 consonants and 3 basic vowel sign bearers.
• Additional Symbols: The script includes 3 consonant symbols (bindi, tippi, and adhak) and 3 conjunctions (rara, vava, and haha).
• Inherent Vowel: Gurmukhi is an “abugida”, where each consonant has an inherent vowel (a) that can be changed with vowel signs.
• Writing Direction: It is written from left to right and can be written between two horizontal lines.
• Height Uniformity: All Gurmukhi letters have uniform height.

Cultural Significance

• Gurmukhi plays a vital role in Sikh faith and tradition.
• Originally created for Sikh scripture, it is now used in various cultural, artistic, educational, and administrative contexts.

Features of the Gurmukhi Script

• No Upper or Lower Case: In the Gurmukhi script, there is no distinction between upper and lower case letters.
• Arrangement of Letters: Unlike the Greek and Roman alphabets, Gurmukhi arranges letters with vowels first, followed by consonants (categorized as Gutturals, Palatals, Cerebrals, Dentals, Labials), and then semi-vowels.
• Syllabic Nature: Gurmukhi is a syllabic script where all consonants carry an inherent vowel. Diacritics, which can be placed above, below, before, or after a consonant, are used to modify this inherent vowel.

Literature of Punjab

Early Punjabi Literature (AD 11th-13th Centuries)

The beginnings of Punjabi literature can be traced back to the 11th century with the writings of Nath Yogis Gorakhnath and Charpatnath. These early works were mainly spiritual and mystical in nature. However, the Punjabi literary tradition is widely believed to have started with Farid-ud-din Ganjshakar (1173-1266). His Sufi poetry, known for its depth and spiritual insight, was compiled posthumously in the Adi Granth, a sacred text of Sikhism.

Punjabi Literature during the Mughal and Sikh Periods (AD 16th Century)

Early Prose and Poetry: 

• The Janamsakhis, which narrate the life and teachings of Guru Nanak (1469-1539), represent some of the earliest examples of Punjabi prose literature. Guru Nanak himself contributed to Punjabi verse, using a rich vocabulary drawn from Sanskrit, Arabic, Persian, and other Indian languages.
• Sufi Poetry in Punjabi flourished with poets like Shah Hussain, Sultan Bahu, and Bulleh Shah, who used the Kafi form, unlike Persian poets who preferred the ghazal.

Influence on Punjabi Literary Traditions: 

• Punjabi Sufi poetry had a significant impact on other literary forms, particularly the qissa, a genre of romantic tragedy. This genre was inspired by Indian, Persian, and Quranic sources.
• One of the most famous qissas is Waris Shah ’s Qissa of Heer Ranjha, which is a poignant love story with themes of tragedy and separation.

Heroic Ballads and Epic Poetry: 

• Vaar, a form of heroic ballad, has a rich oral tradition in Punjabi literature. These ballads celebrate the exploits of heroes and are an integral part of Punjabi cultural heritage.
• Guru Gobind Singh ’s Chandi di Vaar is a notable example of epic poetry, showcasing the valor and bravery in battle.

Jangnama or War Chronicle:

• The genre of Jangnama, or war chronicle, was introduced during the Mughal period. This genre involves recounting historical battles and events in a narrative style.
• An example of this is the Punjabi Jangnama by Shah Mohammad, which details the First Anglo-Sikh War of 1845-46. This work reflects the historical context and the significance of the war in Punjabi history.

Punjabi Literature during the British Raj

• Introduction of British Education and Literary Forms:During the British Raj, Punjabi literature was influenced by various literary forms such as the Victorian novel, Elizabethan Drama, free verse, and modernism, all of which were introduced through British education.
• Early Printing and Linguistic Development:The first Punjabi printing press using Gurmukhi font was established in 1835 by a Christian Mission in Ludhiana. Additionally, the first Punjabi dictionary was published by Reverend J Newton in 1854, marking significant steps in the development of the Punjabi language and literature.
• Pioneers of Punjabi Novel:The Punjabi novel saw its development through writers like Nanak Singh and Vir Singh. Vir Singh, initially a pamphleteer and a participant in the Singh Sabha Movement, wrote historical romance novels such as Sundari, Satwant Kaur, and Baba Naudh Singh.
• Contributions of Amrita Pritam:Amrita Pritam (1919-2005) made significant contributions to Punjabi literature through her novels, short stories, and poetry that focused on the experiences of women and the partition of India.
• Exploration of Common Experiences and Nationalism:Punjabi poetry during the British Raj began to delve into the experiences of the common man and the poor, as seen in the works of Puran Singh (1881-1931). Poets like Dhani Ram Chatrik (1876-1957), Diwan Singh (1897-1944), and Ustad Daman (1911-1984) expressed nationalism in their poetry during and after the Indian Freedom Movement.
• Introduction of Modernism:Modernism in Punjabi poetry was introduced by figures like Professor Mohan Singh (1905-78) and Shareef Kunjahi.
• Emergence of Punjabi Diaspora:The Punjabi diaspora began to emerge during the British Raj, producing poetry that reflected themes of revolt against British rule, as seen in works like Ghadar di Gunj (Echoes of Mutiny).

Some Famous Literary Personalities of Punjab

Sheikh Farid-ud-Din (1173-1265 AD)

Sheikh Farid-ud-Din is recognized as the earliest known poet in the Punjabi language. He was a disciple of Khwaja Qutb-ud-din Bakhtiyar Kaki, who, in turn, was a follower of Muinuddin Chisti, the founder of the Chisti order. Sheikh Farid-ud-Din earned the title ‘Shakarganj’ or ‘Gangj-i-Shakar,’ meaning Treasury of Sugar.

Works and Contributions

• Sheikh Farid-ud-Din made significant contributions to Punjabi literature by developing the language for literary purposes.
• He was the first poet in Punjab to use the symbol of the human relationship between wife and husband to express his longing for union with the Divine.
• The main theme of his Bani, which consists of four Sabda (hymns) and 112 Slokas (couplets), is dispassion towards the world and its false attractions.

Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1496-1539 AD)

Guru Nanak Dev Ji was a remarkable poet who played a crucial role in shaping the Punjabi language. He created Punjabi by blending words from various languages, including Sanskrit, Arabic, Persian, and other Indo-Aryan languages. His poetry laid the foundation for the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of Punjab.

Works and Compositions

• Japji Sahib:. spiritual poem that forms the morning prayer in Sikhism, emphasizing the oneness of God and the importance of meditation.
• Sidha Goshta:. composition reflecting on spiritual wisdom and the nature of reality.
• Dakhani Oankaru:. hymn expressing the core beliefs of Sikhism in a poetic form.
• Kirtan Sohila:. prayer recited before sleeping, praising God and seeking His blessings.
• Barah Maha:. composition celebrating the twelve months of the year, highlighting the beauty of nature and the divine presence in every season.

Guru Arjan Dev Ji (1563-1606 AD)

Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Guru of Sikhism, made significant contributions to the faith and its literature. Born in Goindwal, Punjab, he is best known for compiling the Adi Granth,. sacred text that includes the writings of the four preceding Gurus, as well as those of renowned saints like Sheikh Farid, Kabir, and Ravidas. Guru Arjan Dev Ji organized these hymns into thirty different Ragas,. system of musical measures, which added a unique musical dimension to the compositions. Many of his Kafis,. form of Punjabi poetry, later became integral to traditional Qawwali,. devotional music genre.

Works and Compositions

• Sukhmani Sahib:. prayer composed by Guru Arjan Dev Ji, known for its soothing and uplifting verses, often recited for peace and tranquility.
• Gaudi:. collection of hymns set to the Gaudi Raga, reflecting deep spiritual insights and devotion.
• Majh: Another set of hymns organized under the Majh Raga, showcasing the Guru's poetic prowess and spiritual depth.

Shah Hussain (1538-1599 AD)

Shah Hussain, a 16th-century Punjabi Sufi poet from Lahore, is celebrated as a pioneer of the Kafi form in Punjabi poetry. Also known as Madho Lal Hussain, his works consist entirely of short poems called Kafis. A typical 'Hussain Kafi' features a refrain and rhymed lines, with symbols drawn from the everyday life of a weaver.

Works and Compositions

• Aage Nain Doonghi
• Aakh Ni Maye Aakh
• Aap Nu Pachhan Bande
• Amlan De Uppar Hon Nibere
• Mai Nsse Main Kinon Aakha
• Ik Din Tainu Supna Theesan

Bhai Gurdas (1551-1636 AD)

• Bhai Gurdas was a prominent Sikh figure known for his roles as a writer, historian, and preacher. He was deeply involved in the early days of Sikhism and made significant contributions to the religion's literature and history.
• He was initiated into Sikhism by Guru Ram Das ji in 1579, which marked the beginning of his spiritual journey within the Sikh faith.
• Bhai Gurdas served as a scribe alongside Guru Arjan Dev ji, the fifth Sikh Guru, in the compilation of the 'Adi Granth,' the foundational scripture of Sikhism. This scripture was later expanded and is now known as the 'Guru Granth Sahib.'
• He later became the first Jathedar of Akal Takht, one of the most important and revered institutions in Sikhism, established by Guru Hargobind ji, the sixth Guru, in 1606. Akal Takht serves as the spiritual and temporal authority of the Sikh community.
• Varan and Kabitt Savaiyye are among his main works and compositions. Varan consists of verses that convey moral and spiritual teachings, while Kabitt Savaiyye includes poetic compositions that reflect Sikh beliefs and values.

Guru Gobind Singh Ji (1666-1708 AD)

• Guru Gobind Singh Ji was the tenth Sikh Guru, known for his multifaceted role as a spiritual leader, warrior, poet, and philosopher. His life and teachings have had a profound impact on Sikhism and Indian history.
• One of his significant contributions was the compilation of the 'Dasam Granth', also known as 'Dasven Padshah Ka Granth.' This text includes a diverse collection of hymns, philosophical writings, the Guru's autobiography, and various fables. Through this work, Guru Gobind Singh Ji aimed to reveal divine principles and a higher vision through poetry.
• In addition to the 'Dasam Granth,' Guru Gobind Singh Ji composed several other important works, including:
  • Jaap Sahib. A devotional poem praising God.
  • Akal Ustat. A hymn extolling the glory of the Eternal One.
  • Bachi Natak. A theatrical composition.
  • Chandi Charitra. A narrative about the goddess Chandi.
  • Chandi di Var. A ballad in praise of Chandi.
  • Gyan Prabodh. A work on spiritual knowledge.
  • Chaubis Avtar. A description of the twenty-four incarnations of God.
  • Khalse di Mahima. A hymn celebrating the Khalsa (the community of initiated Sikhs).
  • Swayyal. Various poetic compositions.
  • Zafarnama. A letter of victory.
• Before his passing, Guru Gobind Singh Ji declared the 'Guru Granth Sahib Ji' as the eternal Guru for the Sikh community, ensuring the continuity of spiritual guidance through the sacred scripture.

Bulleh Shah (1680-1757 AD)

Bulleh Shah was a renowned Punjabi Sufi poet, humanist, and philosopher. As a fakir belonging to the Qadri order and a disciple of Shah Inayat, he was known for his critiques of the religious orthodoxy of his time. Bulleh Shah primarily wrote in the Kafi form, but he also experimented with other forms such as Dohre, Baramah, Athavara, and Sarfi. His work played a significant role in integrating Saraiki language culture into the Punjabi language.

Works and Compositions

Some of his notable works include:

• Makkeh Gaya
• Gal Mukdee Nahin
• Bulleya Ki Jana Main Kon
• Main Jana Jogi De Naal
• Ishq De Naween Bahar
• Ek Nukte Wich Gal Mukdee Ae

Waris Shah (1722-1798)

• Birth and Background: Waris Shah was born in Jandiala Sher Khan, which is in present-day Pakistan. He was a renowned Punjabi Sufi poet belonging to the Chishti order of Sufism. His spiritual guide was Pir Makhdur of Kasur.
• Literary Contributions: Waris Shah's most famous work is "Heer Ranjha,". poignant love story that has earned him the title of the "Shakespeare of Punjab." This tale is rooted in the traditional folk narrative of Heer and her beloved, Ranjha.

Bhai Kahn Singh of Nabha (1861-1938)

• Early Life: Bhai Kahn Singh was born in the village of Sabaz Banera, which was part of the Princely State of Patiala during his time.
• Involvement in Social Movements: He actively participated in the Singh Sabha movement,. religious reform movement, where he contributed as a writer.

Notable Works: Bhai Kahn Singh's contributions include several important works such as:

• Gurushabad Ratanakar Mahan Kosh: This is also known as the Sikh Encyclopedia.
• Raj Dharam
• Natak Bhavarth Dipika
• Ham Hindu Nahin
• Gurmat Prabhakar
• Gurmat Sudhakar
• Guru Chand Divakar
• Guru Sabad Alankar
• Guru Gira Kasauti
• Visnu Purana
• Sadu
• Chandi di Var

Bhai Vir Singh (1872-1957)

Early Life and Contributions

• Born in Amritsar, Bhai Vir Singh was a poet and scholar instrumental in reviving the Punjabi literary tradition.
• He is recognized as the founder of Modern Punjabi literature.
• In 1892, he established a lithograph press, producing textbooks for schools.
• He was an active participant in the Singh Sabha Movement and founded the Khalsa Tract Society in 1894.
• Bhai Vir Singh's press published the first Punjabi play, Raja Lakhdata Singh, in 1910.
• He also initiated a Punjabi weekly called Khalsa Samachar and co-founded the Khalsa Tract Society.

Literary Works

• Bhai Vir Singh's notable works include:
• Sundari, Bajay Singh, Satvant Kaur, Baba Naudh Singh, Dil Tarang, Tarel Tupke, Lahiran di har, Matak Hulare, and Bijelion de Har.

Awards and Recognition

• In 1955, Bhai Vir Singh received the first Sahitya Akademi Award in Punjabi for Mere Sayian Jio.
• He was also awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1956.

Kirpa Sagar (1875-1939)

Kirpa Sagar was a prominent poet in Punjab and a significant figure in Punjabi literature. In addition to his literary contributions, he worked as a teacher, banker, and publisher, running his own publishing press in Lahore.

Works and Compositions

• Lakshmi Devi
• Maharaja Ranjit Singh
• Dido Janiwal
• Man Tarang

Dhani Ram Chatrik (1876-1954)

Born in Amritsar, Dhani Ram Chatrik was one of the prominent poets of modern Punjab. He played an active role in promoting the Punjabi language, culture, and literature. In 1926, he became the President of the Punjabi Sahity Sabha (Punjabi Literary Association). Chatrik wrote in simple and idiomatic Punjabi, emphasizing the theme of composite and secular Punjabi culture.

Works and Compositions

• Ramati Seth
• Bhartarihari
• Nal-Damyanti
• Chandanwari
• Kesar-Klari
• Navan-Jahan
• Noorjahan Badshah Begum
• Sufikhana
• Fullan di Tokri

Prof. Puran Singh (1881-1931)

Early Life and Background Prof. Puran Singh was born into a Khatri family in Salhadd, a place that is now in Pakistan. He was not only a Punjabi poet but also a scientist. His poetry, known for its beauty and tenderness, was written in both English and Punjabi.

Literary Works Prof. Puran Singh's literary contributions include:

• Khulhe Maidan
• Khulhe Ghund
• Khulhe Lekh
• Khulhe Asmani Rang
• Puran Nath Jogi
• The Sisters of the Spinning Wheel
• Unstrung Beads
• The Spirit of Oriental Poetry

Ishwar Chandra Nanda (1892-1966)

• Early Life and BackgroundIshwar Chandra Nanda was born in Gurdaspur, Punjab. He is renowned as the Father of Punjabi Drama.
• Contribution to Punjabi Theatre One of his notable contributions is the play Suhag, written in 1913, which is celebrated as the First Punjabi stage-play.

Literary Works Ishwar Chandra Nanda's works and compositions include:

• Suhag
• Bebe Ram Bhajni
• Subhaddra
• Shamu Shah
• Beiman
• Sukhras
• Lilly Da Viah or Varghar
• Man da Deputy

Gurbaksh Singh Preetlari (1895-1977)

Gurbaksh Singh Preetlari was a Punjabi writer known for his novels and short stories. In 1933, he began publishing a monthly journal called 'Preetlari' and later founded the 'Preet Nagar' township, located between Amritsar and Lahore.

• Works and Compositions: His notable works include Gurubaksh Singh de Mahavichar, Merian Abhul Yaddan, Prasann Lammi Umar, Nawa Shivala, Khulla Dar, Eho jo Saada, Mere Jharokhe Chon, and Rukhan di Jirrand.
• Awards and Honours: In 1971, he was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Fellowship for his contributions to literature.
• Nanak Singh (1885-1971)
• Nanak Singh, originally named Hans Raj, was born into a Punjabi Hindu family in the Jhelum district, which is now in Pakistan. After converting to Sikhism, he changed his name to Nanak Singh. He was a prominent poet, songwriter, and novelist writing in the Punjabi language. His novels gained him significant literary recognition.
• Works and Compositions: Some of his notable works include Chitta Lahu, Fauludi Phul, Kagtan di Beri, Piar di Duniya, Dhundle Parchaven, Love Marriage, Garib di Duniya, Adh Khiriaphul, Pavittar Papi, Jivan Sangram, Tutti Vina, Ganga Jal Vich Shavab, Dur Kinara, Khun de Sohile, Agg di Khed, Katti Hoi Patang, Suman Kanta, Adam Khor, Ikk Mian do Talwara, and Khooni Visakhi.
• Awards and Honours: He received the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1962 for his work 'Ikk Mian do Talwara.' In 1998, a postal stamp was issued in his honour, recognizing his contributions to Punjabi literature.

Prof. Mohan Singh (1905-1978)

Early Life and Background

• Prof. Mohan Singh was born in Mardan, which is now in Pakistan.
• He was a renowned Punjabi poet and one of the early pioneers of modern Punjabi poetry.

Education and Career

• Prof. Mohan Singh was proficient in English, Persian, Punjabi, and Urdu literatures.
• He worked as a lecturer at Khalsa College in Amritsar and later became Professor Emeritus at Punjab Agriculture University in Ludhiana.

Literary Works

• His notable works include Sanve Patter, Buhe, Kasumbhara, Adhavate, Kach Sach, Awazan, Wadda Vela, Jai Mir, Jandre Nankayan, and Panj Darya.

Awards and Recognition

• In 1959, he was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award for his work ‘Wadda Vela’.
• The Prof. Mohan Singh Memorial International Cultural Mela is held annually in his honor by the Prof. Mohan Singh Memorial Foundation.

Balraj Sahni (1913-1973)

Balraj Sahni, born as Yudhishtir Sahni in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, was a celebrated film actor and a notable writer in Punjabi. Initially, he wrote in English, but later shifted to Punjabi, dedicating himself to the promotion of Punjabi literature and culture.

His works include Mera Pakistani Safar, Mera Rusi Safarnama, Meri Filmi Atmakatha (an autobiography), Shahzaadon ka Drink, Baazi (screenplay), Ek Safar, and Daastan. In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the Padma Shri in 1969, and in 2013, Indian Post released a postage stamp in his honour.

Balwant Gargi (1916-2003)

• Birth and Background: Balwant Gargi was born in Bathinda in 1916. He became a prominent figure as a novelist, short story writer, dramatist, theatre director, and academician. His literary prowess is exemplified by his novel Kakar Reta.
• Literary Works:
• Plays: Gargi's contributions to theatre include plays such as Loha Kutt, Kesro, Kanak di Balli, Sohni Mahiwal, Sultan Razia, Soukan, Mirza Sahiba, and Dhooni di Agg.
• Short Stories: His short stories, including Mircha Wala Sadh, Pattan di Berhi, Jauri Tisi, Bebe, and Rang Maneh, showcase his storytelling abilities.
• Autobiography: Gargi penned his autobiography titled The Naked Triangle, providing insights into his life and experiences.
• Awards and Recognition:
• He received the Sahitya Akademi Award for his book Rang Manch.
• Gargi was honored with the Padma Shri Award in 1972 and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Punjabi playwriting in 1998.

Kartar Singh Duggal (1917-2012)

Kartar Singh Duggal was a highly productive writer in Punjabi, known for his short stories and novels.

Works and Compositions

Some of his notable works include:

• Dangar
• Ikk Chhit Chananh Di
• Nawan Ghar
• Sonar Bangla
• Tarkalan Vele
• Sardar Poonam Ki Raat
• Tere Bhanhe
• Mitti Musalman Ki
• Band Darwaaze
• Karamat

Awards and Honours

• In 1962, he was recognized as the best litterateur by the Government of Punjab.
• Duggal received the Padma Bhushan award in 1988 and the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2007.

Amrita Pritam (1919-2005)

Amrita Pritam, born as Amrit Kaur, was an Indian writer and poet renowned for her works in Punjabi and Hindi. She is celebrated as the first prominent woman Punjabi poet, novelist, and essayist. Throughout her career, Pritam authored over 100 books encompassing poetry, fiction, biographies, essays, a collection of Punjabi folk songs, and an autobiography.

Works and Compositions

• Novels: Pritam's novels include Pinjar, Sagar aur Seepian, Rang Ka Patta, Yaatri, Dilli Ki Galiyan, Terahwan Suraj, and Kora Kagaz.
• Autobiography: Her autobiography, Rasidi Ticket, provides insights into her life and experiences.
• Poetry Anthologies: Pritam's poetry anthologies include Lok Peed, Sunehe, Kagaz te Kanvas, Trel Dhote Phute, Jiunda Jiwan, Kasturi, and Ajj Akhaan Waris Shah Nu.

Awards and Honours

• Amrita Pritam was the first woman to receive the Sahitya Akademi Award for her poem, 'Sunehre'.
• She was also honored with the Bhartiya Jnanpith Award for her work 'Kagaz Te Kanwas'.
• In recognition of her contributions, Pritam was awarded the Padma Shri in 1969 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2004.

Khushwant Singh (1915-2014)

Khushwant Singh was a multifaceted individual known for his work as an author, lawyer, diplomat, journalist, and politician. He was born in 1915 in Hadali, Punjab, which is now in Pakistan, into a Sikh family.

Career Beginnings

• Singh started his professional journey as a lawyer.
• He later transitioned to journalism, joining All India Radio.

Editorial Roles

• He served as the editor for several prominent newspapers and magazines, including:
• The Illustrated Weekly of India
• The National Herald
• The Hindustan Times

Literary Works

• Singh was renowned for his literary contributions, with notable works such as:
• 'Train to Pakistan' (1956)
• 'Delhi: A Novel' (1990)
• 'The Company of Women' (1999)
• 'Truth, Love and Little Malice' (2002)
• 'The Good, the Bad and the Ridiculous' (2013)

Autobiography

• In 2013, he penned his autobiography titled 'Khushwantnama: The Lesson of My Life'

Historical Works

• He authored 'A History of the Sikhs' in two volumes, which are considered important documents on Sikh history.

Awards and Honors

• Singh was awarded the Padma Bhushan for his contributions to Indian society and culture. However, he returned this honor in protest against Operation Blue Star.
• He received the Punjab Ratan Award from the government of Punjab.
• In 2013, he was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for Literature by the Tata Group.

Jaswant Singh Kanwal

Birth and Background. Jaswant Singh Kanwal was born in 1919 in Dhudika village, located in the Moga district of Punjab, India. He is a prominent figure in Punjabi literature, known for his novels that portray the rural life of Punjab.

Literary Works. Kanwal has written a number of novels and compositions that reflect the nuances of Punjabi rural life. Some of his notable works include:

• Lahoo di Lo
• Punjab Tera Ki Banu
• Khoon de Sohile Gaviye Nanak
• Kaumi Lalkaar
• Sach ki bela
• Sorme
• Jera
• Hunar di Jitt
• Zindagi Door Nahi
• Jand Punjab Da
• Mittar Piare Noo
• Roopmati
• Bhavani
• Mukti Marg
• Gora Mukh Sajna Da
• Sandhoor
• Roop de Rakhe
• Kande Devdas
• Sach nu Fansi
• Raat Baki Hai
• Gwachi Pug
• Pakhi
• Taushali Di Hanso

Awards and Recognition. Kanwal has received several accolades for his literary contributions. He was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Fellowship in 1996 for his book ‘Pakhi’. In 1998, he received the Sahitya Akademi Award for ‘Taushali Di Hanso’.

Gurdial Singh (1933-2016)

Gurdial Singh, a prominent Punjabi playwright and short-story writer, was born in the Jalandhar district. Throughout his career, he authored over 100 books in Punjabi, showcasing his literary prowess.

Some of his notable works include:

• Bhaganwala
• Marhi Da Deeva
• Anhoe
• Addh Chanan Raat
• Anhe Ghorean da Daan
• Saggi Phul
• Kutta te Aadmi
• Begana Pind

Awards and Recognition

• In 1975, Gurdial Singh received the Sahitya Akademi Award in Punjabi for his novel "Adh Chanani Raat."
• He was honored with the Padma Shri in 1998 and the prestigious Jnanpith Award in 1999, recognizing his significant contributions to literature.

Dr. Dalip Kaur Tiwana

Early Life and Background

• Dr. Dalip Kaur Tiwana was born in the village of Rabbon, located in the Ludhiana district of Punjab.
• She is recognized as one of the leading novelists and short-story writers in contemporary Punjabi literature.
• Dr. Tiwana has made significant contributions to literacy and critical studies in the Punjabi language.

Academic Career

• Dr. Tiwana retired as a Professor of Punjabi and Dean of the Faculty of Languages at Punjabi University, Patiala.

Literary Works

Novels:Dr. Tiwana has written several novels, including:

• Agniparikhya
• Eho Hamara Jeewan
• Vaat Hamari
• Teeli da Nishaan
• Sooraj te Samandar
• Lambi Udaari
• Peele Pttyan di daastan
• Langh Gaya Dariya
• Hastaakhar
• Pairchaal
• Teen Lok se Nyaari
• Katha Kaho Urvashi

Autobiographies:She has also penned autobiographies such as:

• Nange Pairan da Safar
• Poochte ho to Suno
• Turdyaan Turdyaan

Awards and Recognition

• Dr. Tiwana received the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1971 for her novel “Eho Hamara Jeewan.”
• She was honored with the Saraswati Samman in 2001 for her novel “Katha Kaho Urvashi.”
• In 2004, she was awarded the Padma Shri, and in 2008, she received the Punjabi Sahit Rattan Award.

Shiv Kumar Batalvi (1936-1973)

Early Life and Background:

• Shiv Kumar Batalvi was born in 1936 in the Sialkot district of what is now Pakistan.
• In 1947, following the partition of India, he moved to Batala in the Gurdaspur district of Punjab, India.

Literary Career:

• Batalvi became renowned for his romantic poetry, which resonated with many people.
• His poems were often set to music and sung by famous artists such as Jagjit Singh, Chitra Singh, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, and Hans Raj Hans.

Notable Works:

Some of his well-known compositions include:

• Peeran da Paraga
• Lajwanti
• Aate Dian Chirian
• Mainu Vida Karo
• Birha Da Sultan
• Loona
• Main te Main
• Aarti
• Alvida

Awards and Recognition

• In 1967, Batalvi became the youngest recipient of the Sahitya Akademi Award for his epic verse play “Loona.”

Legacy

• In Punjab, the “Shiv Kumar Batalvi Award” is given annually to recognize the best writers, honoring Batalvi’s contribution to literature.

Surjit Patar

Birth and Early Life. Surjit Patar was born in 1945 in Patrah Kalan, located in the Jalandhar district of Punjab.

Literary Career. He is a prominent writer and poet in the Punjabi language and began his poetry writing journey in the mid-1960s. Over the years, his poems have gained immense popularity and have been highly praised by critics.

Notable Works. Patar has produced several acclaimed works, including:

• Hawa Vich Likhe Harf (Words Written in the Air)
• Hanere Vich Sulagdi Varnmala (The Burning Alphabet in Darkness)
• Birch Arj Kare (Birch Appeals)
• Lafzaan di Dargarh (The Sanctuary of Words)
• Patjhar di Pazeb (The Anklet of Autumn)
• Surzameen (The Land of Beauty)

Awards and Recognition. Surjit Patar has received several prestigious awards for his literary contributions, including:

• Sahitya Akademi Award in 1993 for Hanere vich Sulagdi Varnmala.
• Sarasvati Samman in 2009 for Lafzan Di Dargah.
• Padma Shri Award in 2012.