Exclusive conversation with publisher Dr. Parminder Singh Shonki regarding the book
*Jalandhar/ April 13/Daljeet Ajnoha : Following the historical documentation of the unparalleled heritage of undivided Punjab, which was partitioned during the forties, a grand book launch ceremony and discussion regarding the large-format book “Vissreyaa Virsa: Pakistan Vich Sikh Virasat” was held today at the local Punjab Press Club, in which the Singapore-based author S. Amardeep Singh was the primary participant. During the discussion, he mentioned that through this book, he invites readers to explore an unseen and significant heritage. Notably, this book is a deep and emotional exploration of the historical places, artifacts, and cultural symbols of Sikhs spread across Pakistan, hidden behind the painful history of partition.
This book is not just a historical document, but a journey that takes readers to different corners of Pakistan, where the footprints of the Sikh Gurus still exist today. This book narrates the story of those holy shrines, magnificent forts, and forgotten tombs that were once the beating heart of a flourishing Sikh community. Through extensive research and heartfelt narration, the author has revived the significance of these places and the countless stories associated with them.
During the discussion, S. Amardeep Singh stated, “I believe that it is very important to tell the story of Sikh heritage in Pakistan. This is not only important for the Sikh community, but also essential for understanding the shared history and culture of this region. This book is a reminder that despite historical divisions, our roots are common.”
While describing the journey of writing this book and other facts within it, he said that this book, along with giving a detailed description and historical significance of the major Sikh historical sites present in Pakistan, also presents old photographs and rare archival material that has never been seen before. It is the inspiring story of the people who are working to preserve and promote this heritage. This book is a must-read for historians, scholars, followers of the Sikh faith, and all those who are interested in knowing more about the shared cultural history of India and Pakistan. It is an invitation to remember and honor that heritage which still exists today despite the obstacles of time and partition.
Through this book, the author and enthusiastic historian, Amardeep Singh, takes readers on a sensitive and insightful journey into the neglected and rich history of the Sikh heritage spread across the land of Pakistan. This book is not just a compilation of historical facts, but a heartfelt effort to revive a significant cultural and religious heritage that has survived even after the tragedy of partition.
This book explores the countless places in Pakistan that are deeply connected with Sikh history and culture. This book extends from the Gurdwaras, which are holy places for Sikhs, to the magnificent buildings of the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and the forgotten memorials of the common people who shaped the history of this region. With years of hard work and in-depth research, the author has depicted the current condition of these places and brought forth the important stories of their past.
Emphasizing the importance of this book, Amardeep Singh says, “I have always been impressed by the richness and vastness of the Sikh heritage in Pakistan. Although partition separated much physically and emotionally, this heritage still exists today, bearing witness to our shared history. The aim of this book is not only to document this heritage, but also to create awareness about its importance and emphasize the need to preserve it.”
This book is one that not only provides information but also touches the hearts of readers. It inspires us to reconsider our shared past, understand historical wounds, and recognize the importance of preserving cultural heritage. This book is an invaluable resource for historians, Sikh scholars, travelers, and all those who wish to know in depth about the complex and multicultural history of this region. It documents a neglected heritage, highlights the importance of shared history, emphasizes the need for cultural preservation, and serves as a valuable resource for the Sikh community and scholars. This book is an essential step towards understanding and honoring the complex history and cultural heritage of our region.
This significant book has been published by the emerging publishing house of Punjab, “Rethink Books.” While discussing this, the director of Rethink Books, Dr. Parminder Singh Shonkey, told reporters that this invaluable heritage documentary book of undivided Punjab not only searches for our historical places that remained in Pakistan after partition and tells us about their current condition, but it also makes us aware of our duties towards that heritage. According to him, the English readership has been actively engaged in communicative creation regarding our heritage with reference to this book for a long time. Now that this book has been published in the Punjabi language, he believes that the Punjabi readership, the Punjab Government, the
Shiromani Committee, and the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee, including the leading domestic and foreign organizations of the Sikh Panth, will become active in fulfilling their historical duties with reference to this book.
