Padma Shri-winning Punjabi poet Surjit Patar’s final verses released posthumously

Noted economist and former chancellor of Central University of Punjab, Dr Sardara Singh Johl, 98, highlighted the rare synthesis Patar achieved between scholarship and sensitivity to the soil of Punjab. He spoke about the poet’s ability to interpret social realities through lyrical expression and recalled how his writings documented changing rural landscapes, ethical dilemmas and collective memory with remarkable restraint and depth.

PAU Vice-Chancellor Dr Satbir Singh Gosal underlined the enduring bond between the poet and the university. He said that Patar’s presence enriched the humanities within an institution primarily known for agricultural sciences, demonstrating that cultural literacy and scientific inquiry must grow together. His contribution strengthened the intellectual fabric of the university and reinforced Punjabi language studies at a crucial time.

Bhupinder Kaur, wife of Patar, spoke about the emotional journey behind bringing the manuscript to publication. She also recited a few lines from the book, allowing listeners to experience the familiar cadence and contemplative depth that defined his poetry.

Patar’s son, Manraj Patar, explained that the collection represents the distilled essence of his father’s lifetime of observation and reflection, weaving together three essential dimensions of human existence: spirituality represented by rabb, the struggle for sustenance symbolised by roti, and the aesthetic and emotional resonance of raag.

Dr Nirmal Jaura, PAU’s Director of Students’ Welfare, said Patar believed literature must remain accessible and dialogic, encouraging questioning minds rather than prescribing conclusions.

Patar’s final collection stands apart not only as a literary work but as a final remembrance. Each poem carries the recognisable fragrance of his language, inviting readers to pause, introspect and reconsider the relationship between faith, livelihood and artistic expression.

Born in Pattar Kalan in 1945, Patar spent more than six decades shaping Punjabi poetry with a voice that was at once introspective and socially alert.