Chandigarh, March 30, 2026: A special felicitation function and poet court was organized by the Vishwa Punjabi Sahitya Vichar Manch (Regd.) Mohali at the Museum and Art Gallery, Sector-10, Chandigarh. The function was presided over by Dr. Shinderpal Singh, while Dr. Sarabjit Singh was the chief guest and Dr. Lakhwinder Singh Johal was the special guest.
On this occasion, Ustad Ghazalgo Gurdial Roshan was honored with the third Bawa Balwant Memorial Award 2026. The award included a cash prize of Rs. 21,000, a citation, a plaque and a letter of appreciation. This award was given to him for his significant contribution to Punjabi literature, inspiring new writers and fearless writings on social issues.
The function began with the singing of Shabad by Surjit Singh Dhir. Bhagat Ram Rangara, General Secretary of the forum, said that the forum was established in January 2024 and earlier this award has been given to Shri Ram Arsh (2024) and Sardar Panchhi (2025).
President of the forum, Eng. Jaspal Singh Desuvi, said that the aim of the forum is to bring together literary societies and honor neglected writers. Chief guest Dr. Sarabjit Singh, while praising the program, said that Bawa Balwant's work was connected to reality and this award keeps his memory alive.
Gurdial Roshan, in his address, said that he has always written the truths of life fearlessly and this award is a matter of pride for him. He described Bawa Balwant's writing as inspiring.
After the award ceremony, a mini Kavi Darbar was also organized, in which many famous poets presented their work. During this, other ghazal singers and stage director Pratap Paras Gurdaspuri and Bibi Davinder Dhillon were also honored.
With the presence of a large number of literary figures, the event proved to be very successful and memorable.