Bhai Vir Singh’s literature presented through a musical composition

Tribune News Service

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Amritsar, February 25

A musical composition by Kewal Dhaliwal dedicated to Punjabi literature’s first novelist Bhai Vir Singh was staged at Punjab Natshala. The play “Meri khidi rahe gulzar,” was based on the literature written by the legendary scholar, environmentalist and social activist. The musical presentation was a mix of poetry, short stories and novels. Sundri, the story he wrote in 1898, was also played through a visually rich presentation.

“Bhai Vir Singh ji’s contribution to Punjabi society is beyond compare, and he is often referred to as the “sixth river of Punjab”.He penned down his first novel Satwant Kaur in 1892, which was published quite late after his second novel Sundri, though the latter is considered as his first published work. His poetry was subtle in words but strong and compelling in its meaning. He mostly wrote about nature, the early morning dew drops, flowers in bloom and small but significant aspects of life,” said Kewal Dhaliwal, director of the play.

Born in 1872, Bhai Sahib began his literary journey in 1898 with Sundri, often referred to as the first sound push to modern day Punjabi. It ran in 35 editions. These were followed by Bijay Singh, Rana Surat Singh and many others. His expression found creativity in poetry, stories and Sikh philosophy. Bhai Sahib wrote a series of life sketches on the lives of the Gurus, which even today are considred significant works in literature.

The play too brought the passion he shared for nature through use of props and visual media. Like the stage was full with rose petals while one of his poetry on flowers was being presented.

Sundri presented the struggle of a community during tumultous times of the British regime. “Religious conversions were forced upon various communities by Britishers and the Sikh community too faced a clash of ideology. His stories talked about honour, strenght of religious beliefs and meaning of being a true Sikh. Issues he wrote about like lack of respect for religion and humanity, no empathy towards environment and social injustices, are relevant even today,” said Dhaliwal.

The play will now travel to New Delhi and Patiala.