Jaswant Singh Kanwal
Jaswant Singh Kanwal, a renowned writer of Punjabi language, was born in the Village of Dhudike of
Moga District in Punjab. He moved to Malaya during his teens and it was there he first got interested in
literature. Later he returned back to his native Village and continued with literal works. As a writer, he is
best known for writing on the rural life of Punjab vividly. He also wrote against social evils that existed
in society then and advocated for gender equality. Slowly his work got leaned towards leftist ideas and he
authored the book Lahoo Di Lo, which could not be published at that time in India, and was got published in
Singapore. However, after the emergency was lifted, this novel was published in India and became his most
well known work. His another novel Taushali Di Hanso received the Sahitya Academy award in 1988. His
1996 book Pakhi earned him a Sahitya Academy Fellowship. His rich contribution to Punjabi literature has
made him a role model writer. Even at this age, when he is in his 90s, he is still serving the Punjabi language
and his community. His bold views not only give us a pleasure in reading, but also awaken us and enhance
our information. Some of his noted works include – Punjabio Marna Hai Ke Jina, Khoon Ke Sohile Gaveeaih Nanak, Mukati Maarag, Taushali Di Hanso, Haani, Roop Dhaara, Aaradhana, Jeevan Kahanian, Lamme
Walan Di Peer, Gora Mukh Sajna Da, Pali, Rooh Da Haan, Devdas, Ainion Chon Utho Surma, Juhu Da
Moti, Soormain and many more. Kanwal was conferred upon the degree of Doctor of Literautre by Guru
Nanak Dev University, Amritsar in 2008.
