Punjab Literature

Punjab Literature has always been a promising one and has largely contributed to the worldwide reputation of the excellent Indian Literature. It has a rich tradition of Sufi and Folk literature. The literature of Punjab has a very long history and it has gained its popularity since the verses of the first Sufi saints. The verses of Sufi poets have everlasting thoughts incorporated in them and thus they are timeless and always modern.

Punjabi Literature also has a prosperous oral tradition. It is the spontaneous expressions of the feelings, which speak volumes about the community. This is generally not penned down and it spreads from mouth to mouth and is retained in minds. Punjabi folklore, which forms an important part of Punjab literature and the verses of the Sufi poets, are examples of oral literature. At present, these sufi poems and songs are widely popular all over the world.

Punjabi literature is mostly spiritual and devotional in nature. Folksongs are also a part of literature and a large portion of Punjab's literature is the devotional folk songs.

Among the numerous literary figures in Punjab, the most eminent of them are:

• Nanak Singh
• Mohan Singh 'Mahir'
• Amrita Pritam Kartar Singh Duggal
• Guru Gobind Singh
• Waris Shah
• Bhai Vir Singh
• Dalip Kaur Tiwana
• Shiv Kumar Batalvi
• Gurdial Singh
• Ajeet Cour

They are all great literary figures who have immense contribution in literature of Punjab. Their creations are read even today and the works have been hugely acclaimed.

Poetry also provides a strong support to the Punjabi Literature.

• Bulle Shah- he was a poet of the 17th Century.

Some of the present day poets are:

• Surjit Singh Pattar
• Paash
• Amrita Pritam
• Shiv Kumar Batalvi