Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of cultural icon Jagdev Singh Jassowal (80), who breathed his last after a brief illness at a Private Hospital in Ludhiana this morning. He is survived by a wife and two sons.In a condolence message, the Chief Minister described Jassowal as a ‘towering personality and a cultural ambassador’ who made enormous contribution to promote ethos of Punjab, Punjabi and Punjabiat in every nook and corner of the state besides showcasing its rich legacy and glorious cultural heritage not only at the national level but across the globe. Mr. Badal also recalled outstanding contribution of Jassowal as a multi-faced personality who actively involved in the politics of Punjab for its overall development and safeguarding the rights of the people, besides a harbinger for promotion of art, culture and literature in Punjab. Mr. Jassowal’s name was synonymous with Punjab’s cultural heritage as he was instrumental in motivating the budding artistes especially the folk singers to promote Punjabi folk lore at the international arena and virtually became a heart throb of millions of Punjabis settled abroad.
Sharing his heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family, friends and relations of the deceased, the Chief Minister prayed to the almighty to give courage to bear this huge loss in this hour of crisis and grant peace to the departed soul adding he said that a void has been created in the literary and cultural fraternity which was difficult to be filled.It may be recalled that Mr. Jassowal was the founder President of Prof. Mohan Singh Memorial Foundation who tirelessly worked hard till his last breathe to revive the cultural heritage of the state.