Punjabi litterateur Dr Rachpal Singh Bali passes away

Jammu, Aug 30: Renowned Punjabi litterateur of J&K, Dr Rachpal Singh Bali passed away at his residence in Baramulla, after a brief illness, on August 28.

He was 90.

His last rites were performed at his native place in Baramulla on Thursday.

Born on February 14, 1934 at Kanli Bagh, Baramulla, Dr Bali emerged as a significant figure in Punjabi literature.

“Born to Ram Singh and Ishar Kaur, he pursued an academic career marked by excellence in the field of Genetics, earning his MSc and PhD in the subject. His scholarly endeavours led him to a long and esteemed tenure in teaching at Sagar University, where he nurtured many minds, while continuing his personal exploration of the literary arts. Though rooted in the sciences, Dr. Bali’s primary passion lay in the realm of literature, particularly novel writing,” recalled Dr Jasbir Singh Sarna, another prominent litterateur of J&K.

“Dr Bali’s contributions to Punjabi literature are profound, with a repertoire that includes seminal works such as Khali Khet, Peediyaan Nadaan, Sallan, Waapasi, Hai Ni Maaye Meriye, Hysteria, Bawari, Mitti di Saanjh, Aatm Gyan, Deede, Sunehre,Chaahat and Mahua. Each of these works is distinguished by its deep cultural resonance, intricate narrative structure, and a profound understanding of human emotions and societal dynamics,” Dr Sarna said, adding that Dr Bali’s novels often delved into the complexities of identity, displacement, and the ties that bind individuals to their roots.

His contributions have been honoured with several awards from the Jammu and Kashmir Academy, attesting to his significant role in enriching Punjabi literature.

“The untimely demise of Dr Rachpal Singh Bali marks the loss of a distinguished scholar whose contributions to his field will be remembered with deep respect. His legacy of intellectual rigor and commitment to knowledge will continue to inspire future generations,” Dr Sarna said, in his condolence message.