Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 20: In a heartfelt tribute to the supreme sacrifices of the four Sahibzadas (sons) of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and to celebrate the Prakash Purb of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the District Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee (DGPC) Jammu organized a deeply moving program at Abhinav Theatre, Jammu.
The event drew a large, eager audience, ready to listen to distinguished speakers and witness the emotionally charged Natak “Zafarnama.”
The program was thoughtfully divided into two sessions. The morning session began with a warm welcome by Harvinder Kour, Secretary of J&K Academy of Art Culture and Languages. This was followed by an introductory address by Balvinder Singh, vice president DGPC, who not only introduced the speakers but also passionately voiced his concerns about the neglect of the Punjabi language in various fields. He earnestly urged the Commissioner Secretary of Culture, present as the chief guest, to take proactive steps in promoting Punjabi through national seminars and Mushairas.
The keynote address by Dr Harshinder Kour of Patiala, a celebrated Punjabi writer, was a poignant recounting of the martyrdom of the Sahibzadas. Her powerful words deeply moved the audience, who repeatedly resonated with spirited cries of “Bole So Nihal.” The chief guest, Suresh Kumar Gupta, Commissioner Secretary Education with additional charge of Culture, illuminated the unparalleled sacrifices of Baba Fateh Singh, aged 6, and Baba Zorawar Singh, aged 9, who were martyred at Sirhind by being bricked alive. He also addressed the issues raised by DGPC regarding the neglect of the Punjabi language, expressing his readiness to collaborate with DGPC in organizing future programs and seminars.
He assured the audience that he had already been directed by the LG and the Chief Minister to fill the vacant positions of Punjabi faculties in schools and colleges.
Dr Harsimran Singh, a research scholar from the Punjabi Department, delivered an insightful presentation based on his meticulous research. The Presidential address was given by Dr Jaspal Singh, former Vice Chancellor of Punjabi University Patiala and ex-Indian High Commissioner to Mozambique and Swaziland, whose words resonated deeply with all present.
The highlight of the event was the soul-stirring Natak “Zafarnama,” presented by the Punjabi Lok Manch of California, USA. Written and directed by Surinder Singh Dhanoa, the play vividly depicted the harrowing story of the martyrdom of the Chaar Sahibzadas of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the brutal tyranny of the Mughal era. The performance left a profound impact on the audience, bringing tears to many eyes.
Ranjeet Singh Tohra, president DGPC Jammu, thanked chief guest Suresh Kumar Gupta and other guests besides staff and officers of J&K Academy of Art Culture and Languages for their cooperation.
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