"The Punjab Kala Parishad would organise a gala function at Punjab Kala Bhawan on 21st February marking 'International Mother Tongue Day'." This was disclosed by the Chairman of the Parishad Dr. Surjit Patar here today while interacting with the mediapersons.Divulging more, Dr. Patar said that the parishad would leave no stone unturned to promote the cause of Punjabi language so as to make sure that the youth of Punjab is connected to its roots and also leave a rich legacy for the future generations to feel extremely proud of. He also said that these celebrations are part of a comprehensive strategy formulated under the visionary guidance of the Cultural Affairs and Tourism Minister, Punjab, Mr. Navjot Singh Sidhu who is committed to the popularisation of Punjabi language and culture in every nook and corner of the globe making a beginning at the village level.Dr. Patar further said that these celebrations would see the participation of students belonging to various colleges of Punjab and Chandigarh showcasing their love for the mother tongue. He also elaborated that the Punjab Kala Parishad would on the occasion also honour Mr. Sanjay Nahar and Prof. Pandit Rao Dharenawar both of whom are working selflessly for the promotion of Punjabi language as well as culture.
Spelling out the futuristic vision of the parishad for propagation of Punjabi language, Dr. Patar said that a cultural parliament is in the offing besides which short film contests also constitute a vital part of the plan envisaged. He also laid emphasis on holding plays in the rural belts apart from dubbing cartoon characters in Punjabi as most of the children these days are hooked to these.On the occasion, Vice President of the Punjab Sangeet Natak Akademi and theatre artist Dr. Nirmal Jaura disclosed that during the celebrations various inter college contests would held pertaining to poetry recitation, folk songs, folk tales, poster making, conversing in idioms related to Punjabi. The college coming out on the top would get 'Punjab Kala Parishad Maa Boli (Mother Tongue) trophy. Among others present on the occasion included President Punjab Sahit Akademi Dr. Sarbjit Kaur Sohal and Secretary Punjab Sangeet Natak Akademi Mr. Pritam Rupal.