The fragrance of the soil is free from the boundaries of borders. When this fragrance takes the form of words and scatters in a foreign land, even unfamiliar streets begin to feel like one’s own.
Across the seven seas, where towering skyscrapers can distance individuals from their roots, the gathering of a few literary connoisseurs allows every single word of the mother tongue to descend upon hearts like a healing balm.
A similarly spellbinding scene was witnessed recently in Chicago, USA, where the shared culture of Punjab, the loving Punjabi language, and the vibrant colors of creativity came together. This literary gathering became the heartbeat of Punjabis living abroad an evening entrusted to Chicago by “Sukhanwar Punjab.”
Imagine an auditorium where Punjabis from the East and the West gathered to embrace one another; where the breeze of Amritsar and the touch of Lahore’s atmosphere could be felt simultaneously; where the magic of Punjabi poetry held everyone spellbound. It was a truly magnificent event.
Stars and luminaries of literature and intellect from Canada, India, Pakistan, and various states of the US gathered under one roof. It felt as though the sweetness of Waris Shah’s Heer, Bulleh Shah’s Kafi, Shiv Kumar Batalvi’s songs, and Baba Farid’s Shaloks had dissolved into the air of Chicago. This mushaira (poetry symposium) proved that the love for one’s soil and the bond with one’s mother tongue are far more powerful and enduring than geographical lines.
The Architects of the Evening
Among the few organizations working with full energy for the survival, promotion, and propagation of the Punjabi language and literature on American soil, the name “Sukhanwar Punjab” needs no introduction. It is a subsidiary branch of “Sukhanwar Chicago,” which has taken up the mantle of keeping the true Punjabi culture alive abroad.
The soul, the chief architect, and the prominent literary figure behind this memorable and historic evening is Abid Rashid. His continuous and tireless efforts for Punjabi literature are no secret.
In a hectic life abroad where everyone complains about a lack of time, Abid Rashid made this mushaira possible through day and night dedication. He not only provided a shared platform for writers from both Punjabs but also proved that if the intention is sincere, distance can never obstruct cultural unison.
The command of the stage was taken by Tahira Rida, who transformed the evening into beautiful memories. With her melodious voice, charming eloquence, and beautiful Punjabi verses, she conducted the proceedings in such a manner that the audience’s attention remained glued to the stage throughout. Whether it was the turn of poetry recitation or introducing a guest, her choice of words was poetic and impactful.
The event was presided over by the eminent and senior Punjabi poet Sajid Choudhary, whose presence lent immense dignity to the gathering. Alongside the poets, several renowned social and cultural figures also shared their thoughts, including ” Onkar Singh Sangha, ”Riaz Babar, ” Rajinder Singh Mago, and ”Tariq Moin from Karachi.
These personalities praised the services of “Sukhanwar Punjab” and emphasized that the continuity of such events is vital to keeping the younger generation connected to their mother tongue.
Literary Colors and Poetry Recitations
A national award winner, renowned playwright, king of theater, and literary icon from East Punjab, *Dr. Atamjit Singh, graced the event as a special guest. His intellectual touch lent a serious and deeply literary hue to the entire gathering.
Accompanying Dr. Atamjit Singh, the distinguished poet *Ravinder Singh Sehra from Indiana recited his poetry, which spoke of love, peace, and a unified Punjab, touching the hearts of the audience directly.
The mushaira featured brilliant contributions from various poets:
Dr. Akhtar Hussain Sandhu (Pakistan): His poetry carried the distinct fragrance of the soil and traditional Punjabi hues, reviving memories of Lahore and Lyallpur.
Ejaz Hussain Bhatti (New York): He beautifully clothed the pain of migration and the changing seasons of a foreign land in exquisite words.
Rakand Kaur (Indiana): Her poetry reflected a deep sensitivity and gentleness, providing a strong representation of the female perspective.
Abid Rashid: When the organizer himself took the microphone, his verses proved that his heart truly beats for the Punjabi language.
Ghulam Mustafa Anjum: His poetry possessed immense impact and flow, infusing the gathering with renewed enthusiasm.
Sajid Choudhary: His presidential poetry showcased profound philosophical depth and artistic maturity, compelling everyone to applaud.
Raj Lali and Kashish Hoshiarpuri: In their unique styles, they highlighted modern-day issues and emotional relationships.
Gurleen Kaur and Tahira Rida: They beautifully highlighted feminine emotions and the graceful aspects of Punjabi culture.
Raz Rangoni and Badr Islam Badr (Chicago): Through their verses, they proved that their caliber is second to no international-level poet.
A Flawless Arrangement
A hallmark of the events organized by Sukhanwar Punjab is their high standard of discipline. From welcoming the guests to their seating arrangements and punctuality, everything was organized with utmost elegance. Along with quenching the literary thirst of the attendees, the organizers also arranged a grand dinner for the guests.
Organizer Abid Rashid shared that this memorable mushaira will soon be broadcast on the Punjab Sukhanwar YouTube channel, allowing millions of Punjabis worldwide to enjoy this enchanting gathering. He expressed his gratitude to all the poets, honorable guests, and listeners whose participation made the event immortal.
The fragrance of this Chicago evening will continue to bloom in the corridors of hearts for a long time to come.
Written By : Shahzad Framosh
