ਓਦੋਂ ਤੇ ਹੁਣ/ਕੰਵਲਜੀਤ ਭੁੱਲਰ

ਅੱਜ ਕਦੀ ਕਦੀ ਬੈਠਾ ਸੋਚਦਾਂ ਜਦੋਂ ਮੈਂ ਬਚਪਨ ਨੂੰ ਅਲਵਿਦਾ ਕਹਿ ਜਵਾਨ ਹੋਣ ਲਈ ਕਦਮ ਚੁੱਕਿਆ
ਤਾਂ ਕੀ ਓਦੋਂ ਏਹੀ ਦੇਸ਼ ਸੀ ਜਿਸ ਵਿੱਚ ਏਸ ਉਮਰੇ ਮੈਂ ਸਾਹ ਲੈ ਰਿਹਾਂ ਮਾਫ਼ ਕਰਨਾ! ਸਾਹ ਲੈ ਨਹੀਂ ਰਿਹਾ
ਬੱਸ ਕੋਸ਼ਿਸ਼ ਕਰ ਰਿਹਾਂ...??

ਓਦੋਂ ਜੰਗਾਂ ਦਾ ਮਾਹੌਲ ਸੀ 1962 ਤਾਂ ਯਾਦ ਨਹੀਂ ਕਿਉਂ ਜੁ ਓਦੋਂ ਚਾਰ ਕੁ ਸਾਲਾਂ ਦਾ ਸਾਂ। ਪਰ 1965 ਦੀ ਜੰਗ ਥੋੜ੍ਹੀ ਯਾਦ ਹੈ ਜਦੋਂ ਮੇਰੇ ਬਾਪੂ ਜੀ (ਪਿਤਾ) ਪੈਨਸ਼ਨੀ ਛੁੱਟੀ 'ਤੇ ਸਨ ਤੇ ਇੱਕ ਫੌਜੀ ਜੀਪ ਸਾਡੇ ਛਾਉਣੀ ਵਾਲੇ ਘਰ ਅੱਗੇ ਆ ਖੜੋਤੀ ਤੇ ਫੌਜੀ ਡਰਾਈਵਰ ਨੇ ਮੇਰੇ ਬਾਪੂ ਜੀ ਨੂੰ ਸਲੂਟ ਮਾਰ ਕੁਝ ਕਿਹਾ ਤਾਂ ਬਾਪੂ ਜੀ ਮੁੜ ਰਸਾਲਦਾਰ (ਸੂਬੇਦਾਰ) ਵਾਲੀ ਵਰਦੀ ਪਾ ਜੀਪ ਵਿੱਚ ਬੈਠ ਗਏ। ਮੇਰੀ ਬੀਬੀ (ਮਾਂ) ਅੰਦਰੋਂ ਭੱਜੀ ਆਈ ਜੋ ਪੋਣੇ 'ਚ ਕੁਝ ਪਰੌਂਠੇ ਲਪੇਟ ਕੇ ਲਿਆਈ ਸੀ। ਬੀਬੀ ਦੱਸਦੀ ਹੁੰਦੀ ਸੀ ਕਿ ਮੈਂ ਕਿਹਾ - ਚਾਂਦੀ ਦੇ ਬਾਪੂ ਏਹ ਲੈਜੋ ਤੁਸੀਂ ਅਜੇ ਖਾਧਾ ਵੀ ਕੁਝ ਨਹੀਂ। ਪਰ ਤੇਰੇ ਬਾਪੂ ਜੀ ਕਹਿੰਦੇ ਏਹ ਰੱਖ ਤੁਹਾਡੇ ਲਈ ਛੱਡ ਕੇ ਜਾ ਰਿਹਾਂ ਫੇਰ ਤੁਹਾਨੂੰ ਮਿਲੇ ਨਾ ਮਿਲੇ। ਪਰ ਓਹ ਡਰੈਵਰ ਡੈਡੀ (ਡਰਾਈਵਰ ਹਰਜੀਤ ਸਿੰਘ ਜਿਸਨੂੰ ਡੈਡੀ ਇਸ ਲਈ ਆਖਦੇ ਸਨ ਕਿਉਂਕਿ ਓਹ ਰਜਮੈਂਟ ਦੀ ਫੁੱਟਬਾਲ ਟੀਮ ਦਾ ਗੋਲਕੀਪਰ ਸੀ ਤੇ ਗੋਲ ਨਹੀਂ ਸੀ ਹੋਣ ਦਿੰਦਾ, ਤੇ ਓਹ ਟੀਮੀ ਪਰਿਵਾਰ ਦਾ ਡੈਡੀ ਸੀ। ਇਹ ਉੱਪ ਨਾਮ ਉਸਨੂੰ ਰਜਮੈਂਟ ਦੇ ਮੁਖੀ ਨੇ ਦਿੱਤਾ ਸੀ) ਕਹਿੰਦਾ - ਰੱਖ ਲੋ ਸਾਬ੍ਹ ਫੇਰ ਪਤਾ ਨਹੀਂ ਕਦੋਂ ਘਰ ਦੇ ਪਰੌਂਠੇ ਮਿਲਣ? ਓਥੇ ਤਾਂ ਇਲਮ ਦੀਨ ਲਾਂਗਰੀ ਦੀਆਂ ਸੁੱਕੀਆਂ ਰੋਟੀਆਂ ਹੀ ਮਿਲਣੀਆਂ। ਫੇਰ ਤੇਰੇ ਬਾਪੂ ਜੀ ਉੱਚੀ ਦੇਣੀਂ ਹੱਸੇ ਤੇ ਮੇਰੇ ਹੱਥੋਂ ਪਰੌਠਿਆਂ ਵਾਲਾ ਪੋਣਾ ਫੜ ਡੈਡੀ ਨੂੰ ਫੜਾ ਦਿੱਤਾ "

ਅੱਜ ਇਹੋ ਸੋਚਦਾਂ ਕਿ ਜਿਹੜੀ ਫੌਜ ਪਾਕਿਸਤਾਨ ਨਾਲ ਜੰਗ ਲੜਣ ਜਾ ਰਹੀ ਸੀ ਉਸ ਫੌਜ ਨੂੰ ਰੋਟੀ ਖੁਆਂਉਦੇ ਇਲਮ ਦੀਨ ਨੂੰ ਅੱਜ ਕਿਉਂ ਨਹੀਂ ਯਾਦ ਕੀਤਾ ਜਾਂਦਾ। ਅਚਾਨਕ ਅੱਜ ਹਰ ਮੁਸਲਮਾਨ ਦੇਸ਼ਦ੍ਰੋਹੀ ਕਿਉਂ ਹੋ ਗਿਆ। ਓਦੋਂ ਵੀ ਜੰਗ ਜਿੱਤ ਕੇ ਆਏ ਸੀ ਤੇ ਬਾਪੂ ਜੀ ਨੇ ਆਕੇ ਦੱਸਿਆ ਕਿ ਡੈਡੀ ਦੀਆਂ ਦੋਵੇਂ ਬਾਹਾਂ ਉਡ ਗਈਆਂ ਜਿਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਨਾਲ ਓਹ ਗੋਲ ਰੋਕਦਾ ਸੀ ਪਰ ਗੋਲਾ ਨਾ ਰੋਕ ਸਕਿਆ ਤੇ ਉਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਫੀ ਪਿੱਛੇ ਲੁਕਵੇਂ ਮੋਰਚੇ ਵਿੱਚ ਬਣਾਏ ਲੰਗਰ ਉੱਪਰ ਵੀ ਇੱਕ ਗੋਲਾ ਡਿੱਗਿਆ। ਸਭ ਲਾਂਗਰੀ ਮਾਰੇ ਗਏ ਤੇ ਇਲਮ ਦੀਨ ਵੀ। ਮੈਨੂੰ ਸੱਚੀਂ ਸਾਹ ਔਖੇ ਆਉਣ ਲੱਗ ਪੈਦੇ ਹਨ ਜਦੋਂ ਇੰਝ ਸੋਚਦਾਂ।

ਚੇਤਾ ਆਉਂਦਾ ਅਸੀਂ ਜਦੋਂ ਸਭ ਪਹਿਲਾਂ ਨਾਭੇ ਤੇ ਫੇਰ ਪਟਿਆਲੇ ਪੜ੍ਹਦੇ ਹੁੰਦੇ ਸੀ ਤਾਂ ਸਾਡੇ ਨਾਲ ਹਰ ਧਰਮ ਦੇ ਵਿਦਿਆਰਥੀ ਹੁੰਦੇ ਸੀ। ਮੈਨੂੰ ਚੰਗੀ ਤਰ੍ਹਾਂ ਯਾਦ ਹੈ ਸਾਨੂੰ ਰਤਾ ਵੀ ਕਿਸੇ ਧਰਮ ਬਾਰੇ ਨਹੀਂ ਸੀ ਪਤਾ ਹੁੰਦਾ। ਨਾ ਮੇਰੇ ਬਾਪੂ ਜੀ ਜੋ ਪਾਕਿਸਤਾਨ ਨਾਲ ਜੰਗਾਂ ਲੜ ਚੁੱਕੇ ਸਨ ਨਾ ਮੇਰੀ ਬੀਬੀ ਨੇ ਮੈਨੂੰ ਕਦੀ ਕਹਿਣਾ ਕਿ ਤੂੰ ਓਹਦੇ ਨਾਲ ਨਹੀਂ ਖੇਡਣਾ ਤੂੰ ਓਹਦੇ ਨਾਲ ਨਹੀਂ ਜਾਣਾ। ਸਗੋਂ ਮੇਰੇ ਨਾਲ ਮੁਸਲਿਮ, ਇਸਾਈ ਤੇ ਦਲਿੱਤ (ਹੁਣ ਚੇਤੇ ਆ ਰਹੇ ਨੇ ਉਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਦੇ ਧਰਮ ਤੇ ਜਾਤਿ ਪਰ ਓਦੋਂ ਨਹੀਂ ਸੀ ਆਉਂਦੇ... ਪਤਾ ਨਹੀਂ ਸੀ ਹੁੰਦਾ ਪਰ ਬਾਪੂ ਜੀ ਨਾਵਾਂ ਤੋਂ ਸਮਝ ਲੈਂਦੇ ਸਨ) ਘਰ ਰੋਟੀ ਖਾਂਦੇ ਸਗੋਂ ਬਾਪੂ ਜੀ ਮੇਰੇ ਨਾਲੋਂ ਉਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਵੱਲ ਜਿਆਦਾ ਧਿਆਨ ਦਿੰਦੇ। ਇੱਕ ਵਾਰ ਖੀਰ ਖਾਣ ਲੱਗਿਆਂ ਅਸਲਮ ਨੇ ਹੋਰ ਮੰਗ ਲਈ। ਹੋਰ ਖੀਰ ਨਹੀਂ ਸੀ ਤੇ ਬਾਪੂ ਜੀ ਨੇ ਮੇਰੇ ਵਾਲੀ ਕੌਲੀ ਚੁੱਕ ਓਹਨੂੰ ਫੜਾ ਦਿੱਤੀ। ਮੈਂ ਬਾਪੂ ਜੀ ਵੱਲ ਵੇਖਿਆ ਉਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਘੂਰ ਦਿੱਤਾ।
ਮੈਂ ਵੀ ਬੜੀ ਵਾਰੀਂ ਉਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਦੇ ਘਰ ਜਾਕੇ ਰੋਟੀ ਖਾ ਕੇ ਆਇਆ। ਮੈਨੂੰ ਵੀ ਉਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਦੇ ਘਰੀਂ ਉਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਤੋਂ ਜਿਆਦਾ ਪਿਆਰ ਮਿਲਿਆ।

ਸੋ ਅੱਜ ਸਾਹ ਏਸ ਲਈ ਵੀ ਕਦੀ-ਕਦੀ ਔਖਾ ਆਉਂਦਾ ਕਿ ਜੇ ਅੱਜ ਮੇਰੇ ਬਾਪੂ ਜੀ ਜਿਊਂਦੇ ਹੁੰਦੇ ਤਾਂ ਓਹ ਕਿਵੇਂ ਸਾਹ ਲੈਂਦੇ ਜਦ ਕਿ ਮੈਂ ਹੀ ਸਾਹ ਲੈਣ ਵਿੱਚ ਮੁਸ਼ਕਿਲ ਮਹਿਸੂਸ ਕਰ ਰਿਹਾਂ। ਮੇਰੀ ਸਮਝ ਏਨੀ ਕੁ ਸੀ ਬਾਕੀ ਤੁਸੀਂ ਸਮਝ ਲੈਣਾ ਮੈਂ ਕੀ ਕਹਿਣਾ ਚਾਹ ਰਿਹਾਂ।

Dr. Mohanjit

I'm deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Dr. Mohanjit Singh, an eminent Punjabi poet, critic, and translator. His contributions to Punjabi literature were immense, and his loss will be deeply felt by the literary community and beyond.

 

Dr. Mohanjit's work has left an indelible mark on the world of literature, and his achievements, including the Saahitya Academy Award and the prestigious Punjab Gaurav Puraskar, will continue to inspire generations to come.

 

It's heartbreaking to learn of his passing, especially after hearing about his declining health just recently. I can only imagine the shock and sorrow that his friends, colleagues, and admirers, such as Mr. Nachhattar, a well-known Punjabi novelist and short story writer, must be feeling at this moment.

 

I recall the conversation I had with Nachhattar on phone while in Amritsar yesterday with Vishal, the editor of Akkhhar, discussing Dr. Mohanjit's unwellness. It's particularly poignant that he edited my poetry book, "Waqt Belagaam," in January 2021, and though I couldn't publish it until 2024 due to various reasons, including my own health struggles, I couldn't include his name due to circumstances beyond my control.

 

Dr. Mohanjit's understanding and forgiving nature, as evidenced by his reaction to the omission of his name in the book during my conversation at the Sahitya Academy, Ludhiana elections in March 2024, speaks volumes about his character and generosity.

 

May his soul find eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to shine brightly through his timeless words and profound influence on literature. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and all those who have been touched by his brilliance. 

Unveiling the Shadow of Fascism: A Critical Analysis of Satpal Bhikhi's Editorial in Tasman

In the tumultuous landscape of contemporary India, the specter of fascism looms large, casting a shadow over the democratic fabric of the nation. Satpal Bhikhi's editorial in Tasman serves as a poignant reflection of this unsettling reality, dissecting the alarming trends that signal the rapid proliferation of authoritarian ideologies. As economic prowess propels India to the zenith of global rankings, the underlying currents of fear and panic engulf the populace, exacerbating social tensions and political anxieties. With the Lok Sabha election looming on the horizon, the stakes are higher than ever, as the very essence of democracy hangs in the balance.

Bhikhi astutely observes that while one may endure the hardships of poverty, the suffocating grip of fascism leaves an indelible scar on the collective consciousness. In a nation renowned for its cultural diversity and pluralistic ethos, the rise of fascist ideologies poses an existential threat to the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity. The editorial underscores the insidious role played by political opportunists who exploit communal fault lines for electoral gains, reminiscent of the divisive tactics employed during the partition of 1947.

Central to Bhikhi's analysis is the nexus between socioeconomic deprivation and the proliferation of communal politics. As the government falters in addressing the fundamental needs of the populace, such as access to food, shelter, and employment, communal rhetoric emerges as a convenient smokescreen to deflect attention from systemic failures. The editorial poignantly highlights the paradox wherein rioters roam with impunity, while those advocating for basic rights are unjustly incarcerated—a stark reminder of the skewed priorities of those in power.

At the heart of Bhikhi's critique lies a scathing indictment of the erosion of democratic values in the face of communal polarization. The stifling of dissent through draconian measures such as censorship and curtailment of free speech undermines the very essence of democracy, relegating vital issues of life and death to the periphery of public discourse. The invocation of divisive tropes such as '295,' 'Paki,' 'Urban Naxal,' and 'riots' serves as a tool of repression, stifling dissent and perpetuating a climate of fear and paranoia.

The editorial paints a grim portrait of a society ensnared in the vicious cycle of authoritarianism, wherein the quest for power supersedes the imperatives of justice and equity. However, Bhikhi remains steadfast in his conviction that such tyranny is unsustainable in the long run, as history attests to the resilience of human spirit in the face of oppression. The editorial serves as a clarion call to action, urging the citizenry to resist the divisive forces of communalism and reclaim the moral compass of the nation.

In the final analysis, Bhikhi's editorial serves as a stark reminder of the perils of complacency in the face of encroaching fascism. The path to a vibrant and inclusive democracy lies not in the politics of division and hate, but in the pursuit of justice, equality, and fraternity. As the specter of communal hatred threatens to engulf the nation, it is incumbent upon each citizen to stand firm in defense of pluralism and secularism—the cornerstones of India's democratic ethos. For in the words of Bhikhi, "Centuries will not forgive those who spread such a smog," and it is only through collective action and solidarity that we can dispel the shadows of fascism and usher in a brighter dawn of hope and tolerance..

 Book Review: "Heer Na Aakhe Koyee" by Parkash Sohan

"Heer Na Aakhe Koyee" by Parkash Sohan is a captivating Punjabi novel that takes readers on a journey through love, loss, and redemption. Set against the backdrop of Delhi in August 1979, Sohan weaves a tale of passion and longing that grips readers from the very first page.

The novel follows the story of two protagonists, whose paths cross in the bustling streets of Delhi. Through well-knitted words and compelling dialogue, Sohan paints a vivid picture of their blossoming relationship, drawing readers into their world with each turn of the page. From the moment they meet, the chemistry between the characters is palpable, and readers will find themselves rooting for their love to triumph against all odds.

One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its characters. Each individual is crafted with depth and complexity, making them feel like real people with hopes, dreams, and flaws. As the story unfolds, readers are treated to a rich tapestry of emotions, as the characters navigate the highs and lows of love, friendship, and betrayal.

Sohan's writing style is both eloquent and evocative, transporting readers to the streets of Delhi and immersing them in the sights, sounds, and smells of the city. His attention to detail is remarkable, and every scene is brought to life with vivid imagery and sensory descriptions. Whether it's the bustling markets of Chandni Chowk or the serene banks of the Yamuna River, each setting feels authentic and alive, adding depth and texture to the story.

At 394 pages, "Heer Na Aakhe Koyee" is a substantial read, but the pacing is expertly handled, keeping readers engaged from beginning to end. The plot unfolds at a steady pace, with plenty of twists and turns to keep readers guessing. Just when you think you know where the story is headed, Sohan throws in a surprise that will leave you eagerly turning the pages to see what happens next.

While the novel is primarily a love story, it also touches on themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. Through the experiences of the characters, Sohan explores the complexities of modern life, shedding light on the struggles and triumphs that shape their journey.

Overall, "Heer Na Aakhe Koyee" is a remarkable achievement that showcases Parkash Sohan's talent as a storyteller. With its well-developed characters, richly detailed setting, and compelling narrative, it is a novel that will stay with readers long after they have turned the final page. Whether you're a fan of romance, drama, or simply appreciate finely crafted literature, this is a book that comes highly recommended. Sohan's debut novel is a triumph, and I eagerly anticipate seeing what he has in store for readers next.

Underrated Gems: Hidden Bollywood Movie Masterpieces

Bollywood, the heart of the Indian film industry, is renowned for its vibrant and larger-than-life movies that often captivate audiences worldwide. While blockbuster hits and glamorous productions dominate the spotlight, there exists a treasure trove of hidden gems that often go unnoticed. In this article, we will delve into the realm of underrated Bollywood films—hidden masterpieces that deserve more recognition for their exceptional storytelling, innovative filmmaking, and outstanding performances.

 

1.       The Lunchbox (2013)

 

Directed by Ritesh Batra, "The Lunchbox" is a poignant tale that beautifully captures the essence of loneliness and human connection. Starring Irrfan Khan and Nimrat Kaur, the film revolves around a mistaken lunchbox delivery that sparks an unexpected friendship between a young woman and an older man. The subtle performances and the film's ability to evoke a range of emotions make it a gem that deserves more appreciation.

 

2.       Ship of Theseus (2012)

 

Anand Gandhi's "Ship of Theseus" is a thought-provoking cinematic masterpiece that explores philosophical questions about identity, morality, and the interconnectedness of life. The film weaves together three distinct stories, each grappling with profound existential dilemmas. With its intellectual depth and visual brilliance, "Ship of Theseus" is a cinematic experience that deserves recognition beyond niche audiences.

 

3.       Stanley Ka Dabba (2011)

 

Directed by Amole Gupte, "Stanley Ka Dabba" is a heartwarming and socially relevant film that revolves around a schoolboy named Stanley, who is denied the simple pleasure of bringing his own lunch to school. The film sheds light on important issues such as child labor, hunger, and the value of compassion. The young protagonist's endearing performance, combined with the film's simplicity, makes it an underrated gem in Bollywood's repertoire.

 

4.       Aankhon Dekhi (2014)

 

Rajat Kapoor's "Aankhon Dekhi" is a unique exploration of existentialism and self-discovery. The film follows the journey of Bauji, played by Sanjay Mishra, who decides to believe only what he sees with his own eyes. This decision leads him on a path of self-realization and prompts profound philosophical contemplation. The film's unconventional narrative and Mishra's stellar performance make it a hidden treasure that deserves more attention.

 

5.       Masaan (2015)

 

Neeraj Ghaywan's "Masaan" is a powerful and emotionally charged drama that intertwines multiple narratives against the backdrop of the holy city of Varanasi. The film addresses societal taboos, the struggle for love, and the complexities of life and death. With strong performances by Vicky Kaushal and Richa Chadha, "Masaan" stands out as an underrated gem that showcases the raw and poignant reality of human existence.

 

6.       Dhanak (2015)

 

Nagesh Kukunoor's "Dhanak" is a heartwarming tale of sibling love and unwavering optimism. The film follows Pari and Chotu, two siblings on a quest to meet their favorite movie star and restore Chotu's eyesight. The film's simplicity, coupled with its vibrant cinematography, delivers a powerful message about the importance of hope and determination. "Dhanak" deserves recognition for its heartening narrative and standout performances by its child actors.

 

 

 

7.       Titli (2014)

 

Kanu Behl's "Titli" is a gritty and intense portrayal of a dysfunctional family in Delhi. The film revolves around Titli, the youngest member of the family, as he strives to break free from the clutches of his oppressive family and pursue his dreams. With its raw depiction of societal issues and powerful performances by its cast, "Titli" stands out as a hidden gem that offers a stark and unflinching look at urban life in India.

 

8.       Parched (2015)

 

Leena Yadav's "Parched" is a compelling and empowering film that addresses issues of gender, patriarchy, and female friendship in rural India. The narrative follows the lives of four women in a small village, each grappling with societal expectations and seeking liberation. With its strong feminist themes and stellar performances by Tannishtha Chatterjee and Radhika Apte, "Parched" deserves more recognition as a socially relevant and impactful cinematic creation.

 

9.       Tumbbad (2018)

 

Rahi Anil Barve's "Tumbbad" is a visually stunning and atmospherically rich fantasy-horror film that explores greed, mythology, and the consequences of unchecked desires. Set in the village of Tumbbad over several decades, the film combines elements of horror and fantasy to create a unique cinematic experience. "Tumbbad" is a cinematic triumph that stands out for its storytelling, visual effects, and atmospheric brilliance.

 

10.    Lipstick Under My Burkha (2016)**

 

Alankrita Shrivastava's "Lipstick Under My Burkha" is a bold and unapologetic exploration of the desires and aspirations of four women from different backgrounds. The film challenges societal norms and sheds light on the struggles faced by women in expressing their sexuality and individuality. With its strong narrative and powerful performances, "Lipstick Under My Burkha" is an underrated gem that deserves recognition for its courage and storytelling prowess.

 

Conclusion

 

Bollywood's vast landscape is adorned with a myriad of films that go beyond the glitz and glamour often associated with the industry. The hidden masterpieces mentioned above offer a diverse range of stories, each addressing unique aspects of the human experience. From thought-provoking philosophical explorations to heartwarming tales of hope and resilience, these films showcase the depth and diversity of storytelling in Bollywood.

 

While blockbuster hits continue to dominate the box office, it is essential to acknowledge and celebrate the lesser-known gems that contribute to the richness of Indian cinema. These films, often overlooked by mainstream audiences, deserve more recognition for their innovation, authenticity, and the meaningful conversations they spark. As cinephiles, let us explore and appreciate the depth and brilliance of these hidden Bollywood movie masterpieces, ensuring that their impact resonates far beyond the confines of their initial release.