Dr. Vikramjit Singh Sahney paid a heartfelt homage to the enduring legacy of Padma Shri Surjit Patar Ji, who passed away on May 11, 2024, through a global premiere of musical rendition of his poetry Kujh Keha Tan.
Padma Shri Vikramjit Singh Sahney, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, Chairman Sun Foundation and International President of World Punjabi Organisation, is a passionate sufi singer and has beautifully encapsulated the essence of Dr. Surjit Patar Ji’s poetry through this musical.
The evocative lines ‘Kuj Keha ta hanera jarega Kive, Chup reha ta shamadaan ki kehn gaye!’ (If I speak and utter a word, how shall darkness tolerate? if I remain silent how shall light forgive?) form the core of the song’s narrative. These words resonate with one’s emotions, exploring the dilemma between expressing one’s truth and the fear of the consequences that follow. The words urge listeners to reflect on their own battles between fear and courage, silence and speech.
The song transitions from an individual perspective to a broader, macro-level view as it progresses. The lines ‘Ki eh insaaf eh heyome de putt karn gaye ,ki eh khamosh pathar de butt karn gaye .Jo saleeba te tange ne lathane nahi ,raaj badalan gaye sooraj charan lehn gaye!’(What justice to expect from these arrogant people, what to expect from these mute statues. Those who are crucified, shall not see deliverance, Regimes shall change and Sun shall set and rise.) highlight the social apathy, the despair and enduring hope that define the human struggle against oppression. It portrays the heartache of those who suffer and sacrifice without witnessing the fruits of their struggle, underlining that true deliverance is often abstract.
The imagery of changing regimes and the constant cycle of the sun rising and setting serves as a powerful reminder that life goes on despite the hardships.
Vikram Sahney has imbued this poignant tribute with a deep sense of reverence and purpose. Set against a backdrop of stirring piano and violin compositions, it is a visual masterpiece.
The tribute comes across as a testament to the enduring power of art and literature to inspire, educate and unite with Patar Ji’s message of compassion for a just society, where individual’s actions resonate for the greater good.
