AI Generated Summary
- In a renewed push to celebrate Punjabi language and culture, the Punjab Language Department has unveiled a fresh collection of portraits honouring distinguished writers and scholars at Punjab Bhawan in the national capital.
- Officials said that 20 portraits of renowned personalities have been installed in the entrance hall and verandahs of the upper floors in the B Block of the building.
- The department views the initiative as an effort to introduce visitors and residents at Punjab Bhawan to the depth and diversity of Punjabi intellectual traditions.
In a renewed push to celebrate Punjabi language and culture, the Punjab Language Department has unveiled a fresh collection of portraits honouring distinguished writers and scholars at Punjab Bhawan in the national capital. The initiative aims to highlight the contributions of literary figures whose work has shaped Punjabi thought and identity across generations.
Officials said that 20 portraits of renowned personalities have been installed in the entrance hall and verandahs of the upper floors in the B Block of the building. The installation was carried out under the supervision of Language Department Director S. Jaswant Singh Zafar and Deputy Director Alok Chawla, with logistical support from the staff of Punjab Bhawan led by Rajinder Singh.
The newly displayed portraits include prominent literary and academic figures such as Principal Teja Singh, Giani Sohan Singh Seetal, Dr Diwan Singh Kalepani, Principal Sujan Singh, S. Jaswant Singh Kanwal, Nanak Singh, Dr Harbhajan Singh, Dalip Kaur Tiwana, Balraj Sahni, Bawa Budh Singh, Sukhwant Kaur Mann, Mahinder Singh Sarna, Deepak Jaitoi, Mahinder Kaur Gill, Ram Saroop Ankhi, Rattan Singh Jaggi, Mohanjit, Parminderjit and Professor Ajmer Aulakh. According to officials, these personalities played a vital role in enriching Punjabi literature and promoting the language globally.
With the latest addition, around 60 portraits have now been installed at the venue as part of an ongoing project to preserve and showcase Punjab’s literary legacy. The department views the initiative as an effort to introduce visitors and residents at Punjab Bhawan to the depth and diversity of Punjabi intellectual traditions.
Earlier in the day, representatives of the Language Department met Principal Resident Commissioner S. Karuna Raju to discuss new strategies to present the spirit of ‘Punjabiyat’ more effectively within the premises. Deputy Resident Commissioner Asita Sharma stated that renovation of the department’s local library is also underway and is expected to be completed soon. The upgraded space, she added, will offer an improved environment for guests, scholars and cultural enthusiasts staying at the Bhawan.
Officials expressed hope that the portrait gallery and the upcoming library revamp will together create a stronger cultural presence for Punjabi language and literature in New Delhi.
