Former civil servant Rajan Kashyap has come up with another book. ‘Beyond the Trappings of Office – A Civil Servant’s Journey in Punjab’, a memoir by Rajan Kashyap, former Chief Secretary and ex-Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) of Punjab, was released at the Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration (MGSIPA), Sector 26, Chandigarh.

The book  was jointly released by Justice SS Sodhi, former Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court, and Gurbachan Jagat, former Governor of Manipur.

The book, ‘Beyond the Trappings of Office’ which is set to hit the shelves in a big way, documents the growth story of the state of Punjab, and the good and bad times and the key events to which he was an eyewitness. The book also puts on record the role of the who’s who of political spectrum among others, who shaped agrarian state by pushing unprecedented development for a period spanning over half a century.

The author who retired in 2003, joined the IAS in 1965, making him the youngest Chief Secretary across the country. 

Speaking about the book ‘Beyond the Trappings of Office’ on hand he underlined how things had undergone a sea change when compared to the times gone by. Emphasizing the need for a positive approach and synergy especially among those helming the affairs and other stakeholders, he underlined the need for forging a close coordination between civil servants and the police force, a sentiment that was duly endorsed by Justice SS Sodhi and Gurbachan Jagat in their observations.

In an interaction held on the occasion, Prof BN Goswamy, an acclaimed art historian and critic, who joined the Indian Administrative Service (IAS)  in the 1950s, only to call it quits after a short stint to pursue a career in academics, shared some amusing anecdotes surrounding the work ethics of the bygone era. He said mutual coordination between those who mattered in the scheme of things was a key to unlock bigger problems, no matter how complex they might be.

Another prominent panelist Brigadier Sukhjit Singh, a former Maharaja of Kapurthala estate and an erudite thinker, presented his perspective of governance during the times gone by. He painted an interesting picture of governance in the erstwhile state of Kapurthala, saying it had been a smooth run with prejudice towards none. What all we need to do is to work harder and move on to achieve the envisaged aims and objectives, he made a point.

Sanjeev Chopra, former director of Lal Bahadur Shastri Academy of Administration, Mussoorie, pointed out how modern age civil servants were turning way more professional than their counterparts in the past. He said civil servants must write down for posterity about the happening events as they were participants in the evolving history.

Former Education Secretary to Government of India Vibha Puri Das said human considerations played a pivotal role in the discharge of one’s bureaucratic obligations to deliver in the right earnest. She also shared her encounters with the political big wigs, which had been quite amusing, she quipped.

Anirudh Tiwari, Director General, MGSIPA, said better human resource management, skill-specific training apart from eternal values of compassion, empathy, justice and fair play were crucial, adding that the ultimate aim of the civil servant should be the delivery of timely justice and fair play. Former IAS officer Vivek Atray conducted the panel discussion.

(The writer, Ramesh K Dhiman, is a former staffer of The Tribune and freelancer. He has written extensively for leading newspapers and magazines on art, culture, mythology, besides travelogues.)

A new book ‘Creed of Valour and Sacrifice’ authored by Col Ranbir Singh, VrC (retd), based on the inspiring tabulation of 120 years of relentless service to the Indian Army by Tricity’s Kang family, was unveiled at Scola Cafe in Sector 7, Chandigarh.

In the 188-page book, an Indian Army veteran Col Ranbir Singh has chronicled the contribution of four generations of his family to the Indian Army. It talks about how his grandfather, father, his two brothers, his son and himself, served in the Indian Army with aplomb and passion.

The foreword of the book has been written by one of the most illustrious and veteran Army officers, Lt Gen HS Panag, former GOC-in-C Northern and Southern Commands.

‘Creed of Valour and Sacrifice’ has been published by Sabre & Quill, New Delhi, which is an initiative by veterans of the Indian Army.

Speaking at the launch, the author said, “The book is a sincere attempt to document my family’s rich history of serving the army which spans about 120 years. The book is, in fact, a tribute to all those who have been serving the nation by wearing uniforms generation after generation.”

The lucidity of ‘Creed of Valour and Sacrifice’ makes it stunning in appeal. The author has painstakingly illustrated the tryst of the Kang family with active soldiering for four generations, which began with risaldar Narain Singh, joining the 6th Bengal Cavalry (now 18 Cavalry) as a sowar in 1869. His son Brig Sukhdev Singh, VrC, MC, carried forward the second generation banner. After which, his three sons, Capt Bharpur Singh Kang (later DIG), Col Jasbir Singh Kang and Col Ranbir Singh(author) became the third generation of officers serving the Indian Army. Capt Bharpur Singh’s son Karminder Singh Kang, the fourth generation in the Indian Army, was martyred in Sri Lanka in 1989.

Vivid Details By Author

The book has been written after intense research in a unique style, a hallmark of which is a rich narration and presentation. The author has presented old notes and letters of his forefathers written by them during their battle travails. They have been reproduced in typed form for easy readability.

“Old units of my grandfather, father, and others provided valuable data which enriched the narrative of the book,” says Col Ranbir. The author has painstakingly created realistic maps of war operations of his family members who served in the army. He has also made a unique illustration that explains the ‘family army tree’.

All wars covered

“Over the generations, our family has the distinction of having fought in North West Frontier Province in 1897 and early 1940s, WWII in Burma against the Japanese from 1942-46, the 1947-48 war with Pakistan in J & K, 1965 and 1971 war with Pakistan and IPKF Operations in Sri Lanka,” reveals Col Ranbir Singh.

The author Col Ranbir Singh, VrC, has participated in two major wars of 1965 and 1971. He was awarded Veer Chakra for gallantry in the Kargil battle of May 1965 where he got wounded. His father, Brig Sukhdev Singh is the recipient of Military Cross in WWII and Veer Chakra gallantry award for Zojila Pass operation in J&K in 1948 while commanding 1 Patiala Battalion (now 15 Punjab).

Having fought in the Bangladesh war in the east in 1971, Col Ranbir Singh has earlier written a book ‘War in The East- Liberation of Bangladesh 1971’ which was published in December 2021.

With day temperatures crossing the 40-degree Celsius mark in Chandigarh and elsewhere in the country, one looks up for some serene and salubrious surroundings in and around the city, offering the much-needed reprieve from the sweltering heat.

Prominent among the places that pop up in one’s mind is the Aqua Village Water Park, located on the Chandigarh-Kalka highway, near the historic Yadavindra Gardens, Pinjore, which falls in Panchkula district, Haryana. The facility has emerged as the one-stop destination for fun freaks across the region.

The Aqua Village Water Park Chandigarh is the most favoured tourist destination inviting unprecedented footfall, especially in the peak summer season.

Aqua Village Water Park is touted to be one of the most googled prime destinations in Chandigarh and its neighbourhood, offering a typical rural metaphor, away from the city hustle and bustle.

Exclusive Water Park in Chandigarh

As the name clearly suggests, the Aqua Village Water Park Chandigarh, is exclusively a water park, unlike the other two prominent parks – Thunder Zone, Mohali  and Fun City, Ramgarh – situated in close proximity to Chandigarh, which are water-cum-amusement parks.

Some of the major attractions the Aqua Village Water Park Chandigarh tom-toms about are the five pools, including a large family pool where the young and old may indulge in exciting rides and slides of various shapes and sizes. The water park has clean and crystal-clear waters, with automatic water filters and UV protection in place at the facility. The other prominent facility is an activity pool to play all kinds of water games of one’s choice.

There is something for everyone. Playful Kids have a special kids’ pool where the teeny-weeny brigade can make whoopee together, besides a wave pool and two concentric pools with slides, et al.

“It was a wonderful day out with my family to be at the Aqua Water Park. Once we checked in, we were in for surprises, one after the other. The park is clean and well maintained with the hawk-eyed staffers to take care of you and your kids while you enjoy. Swimwear, changing rooms for males and females, locker rooms, canteen facility and other essentials are available at a nominal price,” says Dr Priyanka working with the Health Department, Government of Himachal Pradesh, while speaking with CityWoofer.

Aqua Village Water Park Ticket Price

Adults:

Rs 750 per head (from Monday to Friday)

Rs 850 per head (on Saturday, Sunday and holidays)

Kids:

Rs 600 on weekdays for kids below four feet of height

Rs 700 on weekends and holidays

No ticket for kids below three feet of height.

Special package for schools, colleges, corporators and other large groups.

Timing of Aqua Village Park: 

The park remains open between 10 am and 6.30 pm

Water Park Distance from Chandigarh:

The Park is  22.4 km from the Sector 17 ISBT, Chandigarh and 14.4 km from the Panchkula bus stand.

(The writer, Ramesh K Dhiman, is a former staffer of The Tribune and freelancer. He has written extensively for leading newspapers and magazines on art, culture, mythology, besides travelogues.)

With a conducive environment for running, clean and wide roads, flat routes and above all a helpful administration, Chandigarh is fast becoming a preferred destination for adventure firms to hold running events, marathons and cyclothons in the city.

This is exactly what enticed Dehradun–based adventure tour firm SARMANG Adventure tours which came together with another adventure firm NBT (Nothing Beyond This) to hold the Chandigarh Half Marathon 2023 on July 16, 2023. There are other categories of 10 km, 5 km and 2 km fun run as well.

The marathon is a run against drugs. “If the youth of today is inclined towards sports and fitness, they will never go on the path of drugs,” says Anil Mohan, founder of SARMANG.

The eldest runner of Dehradun, 73-yr-old Gurphool Singh, a retired coach from SAI, is especailly coming to Chandigarh to participate in the half marathon.

Gurphool Singh

SARMANG

Sarmang Adventure Tours is a professional event management firm specialised in holding marathons at national and international levels. SARMANG is approved by world athletics and AIMS (International Association Marathons of Distance races) .

With this being its first event in Chandigarh, Sarmang started in 2019 with cyclothons, braced the Covid pandemic and ventured whole hog into marathons in 2021.

An acronym of the names of Anil’s parents, SARMANG initially got together cycling enthusiasts and  arranged group rides which had a limited outreach. To widen its circle of fitness enthusiasts, SARMANG started holding marathons in 2021.

Happy with the response of Tricity residents, Anil Mohan says, “People in Chandigarh are more conscious and aware of their health needs compared to other towns and cities. Holding a marathon in Chandigarh connects us to people living in Punjab, Haryana and Himachal”.

NBT (Nothing Beyond This)

NBT is also another adventure firm run by Patna boy Ravi Kumar who has a great association with Dehradun. NBT holds pan-India events having held them in Lucknow, Dehradun, Delhi and now Chandigarh. NBT also helps people who have an interest in pursuing world records.

NBT (Nothing Beyound This) aims at building a platform for athletes to challenge their limits and eventually go beyond them. NBT works with the motto: There are NO limits, reach out through happiness and you can discover everything you’ve always imagined you could be.

More About Chandigarh Half Marathon 2023

Location: Chandigarh Club, near CM House, Sector 1, Chandigarh

Time and Date: Sun, July 16, 5:30 AM onwards

Running Distance: 21km(half marathon), 10 km, 5 km, 2 km fun run

Winners Awards:  Top 3 winners(I, II, III) of each age category will get winners trophy

Participants Will Get: T-Shirt, BiB, on-route hydration, energy drink, post run refreshment, Finisher medal for all finishers, and Finisher Certificate.

Price Range:

21 km run – ₹ 1500

10 km run – ₹ 1200

5 km run – ₹ 800

2K fun run (non-competitive) – ₹ 600

2K kids run (under 12 years) – free

Chandigarh Half Marathon Schedule: 
4:00 AM – Reporting
4:45 AM – Official warmup
4:55 AM – Runners and marshals lineup
5: 00 AM – Flag-off
8:00 AM – Award ceremony

Book tickets: https://www.citywoofer.com/e/chandigarh-half-marathon-2023

Contact: 9412149669

City-based NGO Meshaan Foundation celebrated its foundation day with fervour at Tagore Theatre, Chandigarh, by committing itself to further strengthen and expand its activities for social causes.
Chief Guest Rajesh Jogpal, IAS, Registrar Cooperative Societies, Haryana, lighted the lamp to begin the celebration. Special guests of honour included actress-cum-social activist Deepali Rajput and ex-RJ turned actor-film writer Manav Anand Ahuja. The other guests present were RJ Geet, RJ Jassi, and RJ Gagan.

A nukkad natak on water conservation and an eight-minute long feature film directed by Samar Manhotra based on menstrual hygiene management made under the aegis of Meshaan Foundation’ were the highlights of the event.

Film on Menstrual Hygiene

Talking to media persons, Dr Prabhjot Guron Bajju, Founder-Director, Meshaan Foundation, said, “The Meshaan Foundation has been spreading awareness about menstruation health management and safe disposal of sanitary pads for which we have been organising sessions under the menstruation health campaign”.
“In keeping with our vision to spread awareness about menstrual hygiene, we have supported the making of a film named PEST on the same subject,” says Dr Bajju.

Manav Anand Ahuja, the writer, co-producer and lead actor of the educational film PEST based on menstrual hygiene awareness said, “We wanted to educate particularly ‘men’ about menstrual aspects of women through this movie. The reason for this is that during school days’ boys are kept away from menstrual education, while special lectures are given only to girl students. We aim to bridge the gap and educate men about what sort of pain women go through during their menstrual cycles,” said Ahuja.

Meanwhile, a cultural dance performance by MA Dance Academy, Panchkula enlivened the occasion. All the volunteers and supporters of Meshaan Foundation were felicitated by the chief guest and guests of honour.

Meshaan Foundation’s Sphere of Work

The NGO Meshaan Foundation has been working on various socially beneficial projects like self-defence workshops for girls in government girls’ schools, among NCC girl cadets, plantation drives, etc. The NGO is also working on a plastic free project, and has started plantation drives to increase the participation of youngsters in safeguarding the environment.

A herbal garden was recently established at Government Modern Senior Secondary School(GMSSS), Sec 38 W, Dadu Majra Colony (DMC) by Meshaan Foundation. Moreover, the NGO also creates small shelters to fulfil the need for water of community animals and birds during the harsh summers. It keeps donating clothes and medicines to underprivileged people from time to time.

In a unique initiative, the Tamil Nadu Kids Run 2023 is being held on August 6 to promote running among children. Meant exclusively for children between 4-15 yrs of age, the run has been planned keeping in mind the need for children to start their fitness journey young, and keep them away from other distractions like electronic gadgets. It is a non-competitive event with the aim of creating a fun-filled running experience for kids.

The run categories include a 100 mt, 200 mt, 500 mt, 1 km and 2 km. At the end of the run, all kids get a finisher medal and a specialized healthy refreshment box.

Limited spot registrations will be available on first cum first serve basis on July 30, 2023. BIBs for the run will be available on the same day at the Decathlon Teynampet.

Distance & Age Criteria:

Date: Sunday, August 6, 2023

Price: Rs 500

Reporting Time: 8:00 AM

Start Time: 8:10 AM

Venue: SDAT Nehru Park, Poonamallee High Road, Sastri Nagar, Chennai

https://goo.gl/maps/jw7YdoFirqKBmnPRA

Distance: 100 mts, 200 mt, 500 mt,  1 km  & 2 km

Book Ticket: https://www.citywoofer.com/e/tamil-nadu-kids-run-2nd-july-2023

Email: acofficialinfo@gmail.com

Contact: 6304820079

The inauguration of the first synthetic jogging track in the Tricity at Sukhna Lake marks a significant milestone in the efforts of the Chandigarh Administration to create a healthier lifestyle for city residents. It is expected to attract fitness enthusiasts, athletes, families, and individuals of all ages who wish to embrace a healthier lifestyle.

The inauguration ceremony of the first synthetic jogging track was done by Dr Dharam Pal, Adviser to the Administrator, UT.

Having a length of 1800 mt, the first synthetic jogging track of the city has been constructed using state-of-the-art materials and technologies with an aim to provide modern and sustainable infrastructure for the local community to engage in outdoor physical activities.

Also Read: Sukhna Lake’s Running Track Upgraded From Cinder to Synthetic

It offers several advantages over cinder track. Its resilient surface provides cushioning and reduces the risk of injuries, making it suitable for individuals of all fitness levels. Additionally, the track’s durable and weather-resistant properties ensure year-round usability, regardless of the prevailing weather conditions.

​In order to conserve and save water falling in the catchment area along the entire lake, the water shall be collected through channels provided along track. This collected rain water shall be put up in lake which will facilitate the conserving of rain water and also add to water level of Sukhna Lake Chandigarh in future.

Whether you’re an athlete pushing your limits or a casual jogger seeking a peaceful workout, the synthetic track caters to all. The well-maintained surface offers excellent grip and shock absorption, minimizing the risk of injuries and enhancing the overall running experience. It’s a delight to feel the rhythmic pounding of your feet on the track as you immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings.

The presence of fellow fitness enthusiasts adds to the vibrant energy of the synthetic track. You’ll find individuals from all walks of life, united in their pursuit of wellness. The shared enthusiasm and mutual encouragement create a sense of community, making each visit to the track a social and invigorating experience.

The recently-inaugurated, mesmerising new addition to the renowned Chandigarh Botanical Garden, the Bonsai World,  has captured the hearts of visitors with its exquisite miniature trees, offering a glimpse into the ancient art of bonsai cultivation, an art form that symbolises harmony between humanity and nature.

An assemblage of 74 different bonsai plant species ranging up to 35 years of age, The Bonsai World is a part of the visionary mission of the UT administration LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment).

About Bonsai

Bonsai, the art form of cultivating miniature trees, is often associated with Japan, but its origins lie in China. Through meticulous techniques such as crown pruning, root pruning, and wiring, Bonsai artists transform ordinary trees into enchanting miniature replicas of their larger counterparts. The term ‘bonsai’ is derived from the combination of two Japanese words: ‘bon’, meaning shallow pan, and ‘sai’, meaning plant, which together represent the concept of pot or tray planting.

Bonsai World

The Bonsai World is situated within the Botanical Garden, an eco-tourism site near Sarangpur village in New Chandigarh. It is a semi-structural greenhouse that houses various species of bonsai trees.

The expansive botanical garden comprises 15 distinct botanical sections, with the primary objective of fostering research, education, ex-situ conservation, and raising awareness about our rich floral heritage. Moreover, the garden plays a pivotal role in promoting eco-tourism in Chandigarh. It attracts visitors from all walks of life, catering to a diverse range of audiences.

The Bonsai World serves as a platform for marvelling at the artistry and beauty of bonsai, while also serving scientific and educational purposes. Although predominantly closed for public viewing, it offers glimpses into the captivating place of bonsai, providing visitors with a unique experience.

Initiative of UT Administration

The Bonsai World serves as a testament to the UT Administration’s commitment to promoting environmental consciousness and sustainable living. Under the overarching mission of LiFE, the UT Administration recognizes the significance of influencing behavioural change to ensure a greener and more sustainable future. By creating spaces like the Bonsai World, it seeks to cultivate a deeper connection between individuals and nature, encouraging them to adopt eco-friendly practices in their daily lives.

Debendra Dalai, Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden, UT, expressed his enthusiasm for the newly established Bonsai World, stating, “This garden serves as a platform for plant research, education, and awareness. The addition of the Bonsai World will further enhance the garden’s allure, which already attracts approximately 3,000 visitors daily.”

Visiting this place offers a serene escape from the bustling urban environment. As visitors marvel at the miniature trees and witness the meticulous craftsmanship behind each creation, if you seek a tranquil sanctuary where art and nature intertwine, do not miss the opportunity to explore the Bonsai World.

(The writer, Shweta Yadav, is an independent writer and researcher, passionate about uncovering untold narratives)

A student of Panjab University, Sukhman Singh, who has earned the sobriquet of the ‘bloodman of Chandigarh’, has been making remarkable contribution in saving lives by arranging blood and platelet donors for patients in need. His journey began in 2015 when he enrolled at Panjab University. Sukhman Singh was deeply moved by the plight of families desperately searching for blood for their loved ones. Witnessing their struggles ignited a strong desire within him to initiate a meaningful change and serve his community.

24-yr-old Sukhman Singh holds a master’s degree in social work from Panjab University and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Political Science. In an interview with CityWoofer, he candidly shared his journey, shedding light on his motivations and accomplishments.

How did your tryst with blood donations begin?

I always reflect on that fateful day when a desperate mother’s plea for her son’s life changed everything. It was outside the PGI Chandigarh where her heartfelt request for blood donation reached my ears. Without hesitation, I stepped forward, offering what I could—a chance to save another person’s life. Little did I know that this one act would unknowingly ignite a fire within me shaping the course of my life.

Over the past five years, I have dedicated myself to the cause of saving lives. Going through the pain of accidents and surgeries of others, I have witnessed the transformative power of a simple act—donating blood and platelets.

How do you gather blood donors whenever there is an emergency?

Through the collaboration of donors within the university’s departments and hostels, we respond promptly to inquiries by sharing requirements on social media and personally contacting potential donors. Together, we have formed a formidable group, united by our shared commitment to help those in need. More than 15 girls have become an integral part of the blood donor list, and our collective efforts have garnered the support of over three thousand blood donors.

How will a person in requirement of blood reach out to you?

I have provided my contact number to every staff member in the emergency wards, ensuring that individuals can reach out to me directly whenever needed. Rest assured, we make every effort to offer timely assistance in critical situations. We only deal in emergency cases.

Are you getting any help from NGOs and local bodies?

We are receiving no government support. I single-handedly manage this initiative with the assistance of a local student network at Panjab University. Panjab University has played a vital role in supporting and facilitating our efforts.

What are the other initiatives run by you?

As part of our regular initiatives, we organize chai langars (tea stalls) outside PGI and extend financial assistance and donations to families of patients facing dire circumstances.

The process of blood and platelets donation

Eligibility Check: Donors undergo a screening process to determine their eligibility. This typically includes age, weight, and health-related criteria. Donors may be asked questions about their medical history, recent travel, and certain lifestyle factors.

Registration: Donors provide their personal information and complete necessary forms, including consent and health questionnaires.

Medical Check-up: A medical professional conducts a brief examination to ensure the donor’s health meets the requirement of blood donation. This may involve checking vital signs such as blood pressure, pulse, and haemoglobin levels.

Donation: For blood donation, a sterile needle is inserted into a vein in the donor’s arm. Typically, around 1 pint (approximately 470 ml) of blood is collected. The process takes about 8-10 minutes. Platelet donation involves apheresis, a process where blood is drawn from one arm, platelets are separated, and the remaining blood components are returned to the donor’s other arm. This process can take longer, usually around 1-2 hours.

Post-Donation Care: Donors are given instructions on how to take care of themselves after donation, such as staying hydrated and avoiding strenuous activities for a few hours. They are also informed about potential side effects and provided with contact information for any concerns or complications.

Contact: 9357999949

(The writer, Shweta Yadav, is an independent writer and researcher, passionate about uncovering untold narratives)

The 50th death anniversary of the legendary Shiv Kumar Batalvi, an iconic Punjabi poet of love and longing and a heartthrob of teeming millions of young hearts, was observed recently on May 7. To commemorate the occasion, a prominent singer and composer from the city and a diehard fan of Batalvi’s poetry, R D Kailey, a former banker, thought of a distinct style to pay tribute to the inimitable poet, writer and playwright.

Famous Bollywood numbers  ‘Ikk Kudi Jihda Naam Mohabbat Ghum Hai’, ‘Maiye Ni Maiye’ and ‘Ajj Din Chhadeya Tere Rang’ belong to Batalvi’s repertorie.

Unique Tribute

Kailey chose to pay his tribute to the legend, Shiv Kumar Batalvi by dedicating 50 songs, consciously handpicked from the treasure trove of the late poet’s immortal poems, doling out one each on every single day. Composing the music himself, Kailey started his tribute series on April 19, which concluded on June 8, marking the end to the 50-day long musical odyssey.

Kailey, who is an A-grade singer of Akashvani, Delhi, and All-India Radio artist, has uploaded the poet’s rich repertoire on his YouTube channel and presented them under the tag ‘RD Kailey’s 50 Song Tribute to Shiv Batalvi’. He cherry-picked from the poet’s infinite collection of poems, especially the lesser known poems and ‘ghazals’ penned by him.

The songs that Kailey composed and doled out as a part of tribute to the great poet of the bygone era, include ‘Assan Taan joban rutte marna…’, ‘ Mainu Vida Karo..’, ‘Mein adhoore geet di ikk sattar haan…’,   ‘Mein ‘Maaye ni duss meriye maaye iss vidhva rutt da…’, ‘Uchiyan pahadiyan de olhe olhe…’, ‘Punneyan de Chann nu koi Masseya kikkan…’, ‘Tussin Kehri rutte aaye mere Ram jiyo…’, ‘Dheeyan de dokhdaadhe ve loka…’, ‘Larr lag kemein fauzi de saheliyo bann geyi mein subedarni…’Thabba ku zulfan waaleya mere sohniyan mere laareya…’, ’Eh kis di ajj yaad hai aayi…’, ‘Maahi mera sher japda jadon kar ke parade ghar aawe…

Kailey recalls as he shares the oomph moment with a tinge of nostalgia, “The poems composed by Batalvi had been an indispensable part of my life for many reasons than one. We have been organising commemorative musical soirees for decades now on the occasions to mark his birth and death anniversaries to keep him alive in our hearts”.

“This year, on the occasion of his 50th death anniversary, I thought of doing it in a different style, unlike the previous years. The idea of dedicating 50 songs to perpetuate the fond memory of Batalvi, the prominent poet, endearingly called the Keats of Punjab, came to mind. I thought there can be no better and befitting tribute to this iconic poet than crooning his verses,” he says while talking to CityWoofer.

Shiv Kumar Batalvi’s Intense Poetry, Couplets, Writings

Batalvi, who had winsomely woven his intense emotions of birha (pangs of separation) of his unrequited love in his own inimitable style high on romanticism heightened with the pangs of separation, which remains a conundrum for the nosey critics. Batalvi was the one who gave a seminal twist to the Punjabi poetry by adding newer dimensions to it, connecting it with soul and touching the heartstrings.

Batalvi’s contribution to Punjabi literature will remain unparalleled and unforgettable for generations to come. He has created a rich repertoire of poetry soaked in passion, pathos and the pangs of separation. His emotion-charged autobiographical poetry has no parallels, to say the least. His magnum opus Loona, an epic play based on the ancient legend of Puran Bhagat, bagged him the Sahitya Akademi award in 1967, making him the youngest recipient of this coveted award.

(The writer, Ramesh K Dhiman, is a former staffer of The Tribune and freelancer. He has written extensively for leading newspapers and magazines on art, culture, mythology, besides travelogues.)