Akhar relives memory of storyteller Dalbir Chetan

Strap: His short stories have been celebrated by budding writers

Tribune news Service

Amritsar May 6

The latest edition of Punjabi magazine “Akhar” was released on Thursday keeping in view the Covid guidelines. The latest issue is dedicated to eminent storyteller Dalbir Chetan whose short stories have been celebrated by generation of budding writers.

Chetan was hailed for writing characters that personified with his readers. Editor of the magazine, Vishal said despite the problems caused by the pandemic, all efforts have been made to ensure “Akhar” reaches to its readers.

“We are taking care of logistical challenges to ensure that quarterly edition of ‘Akhar’ is released on time. This edition is dedicated to Dalbir Chetan, considered one of the stalwarts of Punajbi short story writing. We have published features written by the late writer and his fans, including his wife, son and daughter, incorporating articles related to his life,” he said.

Praveen Puri, Director, Public Relations Department (Guru Nanak Dev University), along with editorial board of “Akhar” released the magazine.

Chetan’s works have been widely translated and considered powerhouse of information for Punjabi students, researchers and teachers. Chetan’s acclaimed story Mehndi Bazaar was translated into seven South-East Asian languages and many of his stories were translated into Urdu, English, Hindi, Oriya, Telugu and Gujarati; some were also dramatised for television.

Mehndi Bazaar is also a part of MIT Open Course Ware[1](OCW) South Asian literature and culture coursework and was once selected among 20 stories from South Asia.

Vishal said his stories proved that Punjabi literature could match world standards and find global readership. “The questions he raised through his stories Guru Dakshna, Mehndi Bazaar, will also touch minds of readers. We are trying to honour his memory through Akhar, so that young generation know about his literary legacy,” said Vishal.