Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
Punjab’s rich history, cultural heritage, sacrifices and contribution to the nation have been documented in a three-volume book titled ‘Punjab Da Itihaas’, released by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann at Punjab Kala Bhawan on Sunday. Spread across 1,980 pages, the book documents Punjab’s long historical journey, its social and cultural heritage, and the contribution of the state and its people through different phases of history.
Speaking to media persons after releasing the book, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said Punjab has historically remained an important centre of art, culture and literature. He said the land of Punjab carries a rich legacy of civilisation and culture, while hardworking and brave Punjabis have witnessed several important chapters of history. Preserving this legacy for future generations is therefore a collective responsibility, he said.
The Chief Minister said societies that preserve their culture and history are able to maintain and strengthen their identity. He said efforts are being made to protect Punjab’s rich cultural heritage and ensure that younger generations remain connected with their roots.
Recalling the contribution of the Sikh Gurus to Punjab’s history, Bhagwant Singh Mann said the Gurus inspired people to stand against tyranny, injustice and oppression. He said the values of sacrifice, courage and resistance against injustice have remained an important part of Punjab’s heritage.
Highlighting the contribution of Punjabis to India’s freedom struggle, the Chief Minister said Punjab and its people made significant sacrifices during the fight for Independence. He claimed that more than 80 per cent of the sacrifices in India’s freedom struggle were made by Punjabis, even though they constituted around two per cent of the country’s population. He said Punjabis played a leading role in several important movements associated with the freedom struggle.
Mann said Punjabis continued to contribute significantly to the country’s development after Independence. From defending the nation’s borders to contributing to economic development and industry, Punjabis have played an important role in different sectors, he said.
The Chief Minister also highlighted Punjab’s contribution to India’s food security. He said Punjab is once again set to contribute more than 180 lakh metric tonnes of paddy to the national food pool this year. He pointed out that rice is not the traditional staple food of Punjabis, yet the state’s farmers have played a major role in making India self-reliant in food production.
Mann said Punjab’s history is not limited to struggles and sacrifices but also reflects its achievements, cultural richness, hard work and contribution to the nation. He said a publication such as ‘Punjab Da Itihaas’ would help preserve this legacy in a documented form and make it accessible to future generations.
