Language is about culture: Prof Kazak

Tribune News Service

Patiala, February 19

The postgraduate Department of Punjabi, Multani Mal Modi College, Patiala, organised an expert lecture on ‘Sahit Sirjin Prikariya: Sabhacharak Sandarb’ (The process of creation of literature: The cultural context) to mark International Mother Language Day.

The lecture was delivered by Prof Kirpal Kazak, an eminent Punjabi writer, folklore researcher and Sahitya Akademi awardee.

Prof Kazak said a multi-disciplinary approach to learning was the key to attaining wisdom. He said language was not only about words or alphabets, but about the cultural traditions, customs, rituals, myths, living folklore and literary creations. He motivated the students to be original in their thought process and to live their lives according to the higher ideals of humanity.

College Principal Dr Khushvinder Kumar said to create literature, ideas or any piece of art, a writer must confront with the socio-cultural conflicts and conditions. A writer is created through his/her constant friction and close encounters with life.

Dr Gurdeep Singh Sandhu, Head, Department of Punjabi, said Prof Kazak started his literary career with renowned Punjabi magazine, ‘Nagmani’, edited by late Amrita Pritam. He contributed many research-based books, papers and literary pieces to the Punjabi language.