The Punjab Government has unveiled its much-anticipated Literary Punjabi Book Awards for the year 2022, recognizing outstanding contributions to Punjabi literature. The Director of the Language Department, Jaswant Singh Zafar, announced that the awards ceremony is scheduled to take place during the first week of November at the esteemed Bhasha Bhawan.
“In evaluating over 210 submissions, our panel of subject experts meticulously assessed each entry to honor the finest literary works of the past year,” Zafar stated. “This initiative underscores our commitment to promoting and celebrating Punjabi literature in its diverse forms.”
The awards not only come with a generous cash prize but also include a commemorative plaque and a traditional shawl for each laureate, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage of Punjab.
Award Winners:
- Giani Gurmukh Singh Musafir Award (Poetry): Vijay Vivek for “Chhin Bhangar Vi Kalatit Vi”
- Sujan Singh Award (Story): Arvinder Kaur Dhaliwal for “Jhanjaran Wale Paer”
- Gurbaksh Singh Preetlarhi Award (Essay/Travelogue): Jagtarjit Singh for “Chittarkari Vich Guru Nanak”
- Bhai Vir Singh Award (Biography/Tikakaari/Lexicography): Navdeep Singh Gill for “Udna Baaz”
- Dr. Attar Singh Award (Criticism): Dr. Manjit Kaur Azad for “Vishav Sabhyaachaar Banaam Sathanak Sabhyaachaar”
- Principal Teja Singh Award (Sampadan): Dr. JB Sekhon for “Chautha Pehar”
- Dr. MS Randhawa Award (Gian Sahit): Dr. Vidvaan Singh Soni for “Dilchasp Kahani Amber Di”
- Guru Harkrishan Award (Children’s Literature): Sudarshan Gasso for “Kinna Sohna Ambar Lagdai”
- Prof. Gurdial Singh Award (Translation): Bhajanbir Singh for “Moyaan Da Rah”
- Ishwar Chandra Nanda Award (Drama/Ikangi): Kewal Dhaliwal for “Garhi Chamkaur Di”
The Literary Punjabi Book Awards serve as a cornerstone in fostering literary excellence and encouraging writers to contribute meaningfully to Punjabi literature. With a diverse range of categories, the awards celebrate various genres, ensuring that all facets of literary expression are acknowledged and appreciated.
As the community eagerly awaits the November ceremony, the Punjab Government reaffirms its dedication to nurturing literary talent and preserving the linguistic heritage of Punjab.
