National seminar on "Punjabi Dalit Literature: Consciousness and Reflection" 

Chandigarh, March 10, 2025: School of Punjabi Studies, Panjab University, Chandigarh, in collaboration with the Punjab Arts Council, today organised a one-day national seminar on "Punjabi Dalit Literature: Consciousness and Reflection". 

In the inaugural session, Prof. Yog Raj Angrish Head of the Punjabi Department, welcomed the distinguished guests and highlighted that the significance of this seminar in today’s context. He emphasised that the primary objective of the seminar is to foster dialogue around various issues of Punjab through the lens of Dalit literature. Prof. Yog Raj further stressed that while Punjab is currently facing numerous crises, it is crucial to keep dreaming for its rebooting. 

In his inaugural address, Swaranjeet Savi, Chairman of the Punjab Art Council and renowned poet, remarked that the current situation of Punjab is deeply concerning. However, he pointed out that such programs offer an opportunity to generate new hopes. 

Renowned Punjabi thinker Swarajbeer shared his insights on the tradition and history of the terms Dalit, untouchable, and Shudra. Referring to Ambedkar, he discussed the condition of Dalits in Punjab and called for a serious reflection on the truth of this marginalised section of society. 

In his address, distinguished thinker Amarjeet Garewal emphasized the importance of understanding the youth when addressing the issues of Punjab. He pointed out that land, capital, and technology are key resources for production, but the exploitation of the people associated with these resources is intensifying. 

In his presidential address, Prof. Jaswinder Singh discussed the social relevance of literature, stating that literature teaches us how to become better human beings. He emphasised that the solution to society’s problems lies in human inner sensitivity and that we must listen to the voice of our conscience. 

Prof. Sarabjeet Singh, who moderated the session, noted that Dalit literature is a reflection of the struggles of a section of society that has always been subjected to social exploitation. 

At the end of the session, Prof. Uma Sethi expressed her gratitude to the distinguished guests.