'Jawab Aje Baaki Hai' by Deshbir Sharma: A tribute to educators

The annual family reunion of the Government College Retired Teachers Welfare Association, held on November 24, was a milestone for the literary and educational communities of Hoshiarpur and Jalandhar districts. The event featured the launch of Jawab Aje Baaki Hai, a book by retired Principal Deshbir Sharma, which presents a Punjabi translation of 68 insightful articles originally published in English newspapers.

Sharma, who wrote the essays over the past decade for prestigious publications such as The Tribune, Deccan Herald, Daily World, Daily Post, and Kashmir Vision, spoke about the personal journey behind the creation of the book. "This collection is not just a reflection of my experiences but a depiction of the larger societal struggles and joys that have shaped my worldview," Sharma said, his voice filled with emotion.

He also acknowledged the efforts of Principal (retired) Rajinder Kaur of Government College, Tanda, who translated his works into Punjabi. "She has captured the spirit of the original text while ensuring it resonates deeply with our culture," Sharma remarked.

Dr Gurjant Singh, state general secretary of the Retired Teachers Welfare Association, attended the event and emphasised the book's importance in preserving the intellectual legacy of retired educators. "This book is not merely a literary contribution but a testament to the power of education and its ability to shape society," Dr Singh stated, underscoring the enduring impact teachers have on the cultural fabric of communities.

The foreword of the book was penned by Dr Pritpal Singh Mehrok, a prominent Punjabi writer and critic, who praised Sharma's ability to merge personal reflections with universal themes. "In Jawab Aje Baaki Hai, Sharma has skilfully blended personal memories with broader societal issues, offering readers a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking," Dr Mehrok commented.

The event also included a special recognition of retired teachers aged 75 to 85, many of whom had worked alongside Sharma during his tenure. Their admiration for his literary work was evident, with one teacher remarking, "This book is a treasure trove of wisdom that will inspire generations to come."

Through his essays, Sharma delves into various themes, such as his childhood in post-independence Kangra, the complexities of human relationships, and enduring societal issues. One section, in particular, reflects his emotional connection to the hills of Kangra: "Though life has taken me far from the hills, their essence remains deeply embedded in my heart," Sharma shared, a sentiment that resonated with the audience.

Noted Punjabi poet and critic Madan Veera, who also attended the event, praised the book as a significant contribution to translated Punjabi literature. "Sharma's work offers new perspectives for Punjabi readers, providing valuable insights into the human experience and modern society's challenges," Veera said.

The launch of Jawab Aje Baaki Hai was not just a celebration of a book, but of a lifelong commitment to education and the power of storytelling. It honoured the contributions of retired teachers, who, even after retirement, continue to shape and inspire the cultural landscape of Punjab.