Patiala/Daljeet Ajnoha/June 1 — The literary world and the Sikh community came together in solemn tribute today as the antim ardas (last prayer ceremony) of Padma Shri Dr. Rattan Singh Jaggi, an iconic scholar of Punjabi and Hindi literature, was held at Gurudwara Singh Sabha, Fountain Chowk, Patiala.
Dr. Jaggi, who took his last breath on May 22, 2025, at the age of 97, leaves behind an enduring legacy of literary excellence, theological insight, and cultural scholarship. His lifetime contributions to Gurmat literature, Bhakti movement studies, and medieval Indian scripture commentary, particularly his exhaustive work on Dasam Granth and Sri Guru Granth Sahib, have earned him a permanent place among India’s most revered scholars.
Born on July 27, 1927, Dr. Jaggi served as the Professor and Head of the Department of Punjabi Literary Studies at Punjabi University, Patiala, retiring in 1987. Fluent in Punjabi, Hindi, Urdu, Persian, Sanskrit, and English, he authored and edited dozens of critically acclaimed books, encyclopedias, and translations. His celebrated works such as Bhav Prabodhini Tika, Dasam Granth Da Tika, Guru Granth Vishavkosh, and Punjabi Sahit Da Sarot Moolak Itihas continue to guide scholars and spiritual seekers alike.
Dr. Jaggi was honored with the Padma Shri by the President of India in 2023 for his exceptional contributions to literature and education. His awards include the Sahitya Akademi Award (1989), Punjabi Sahit Shiromani Award (1996), and several others from Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh governments, along with multiple honorary D.Litt. degrees.
Paying rich tributes at the ceremony were his son Sh. Malvinder Singh Jaggi, IAS, and his wife Dr. Gursharan Kaur Jaggi, retired Principal of Government College, Patiala. In their heartfelt messages, they remembered him not just as a towering scholar but as a guiding light for the family and a noble soul devoted to the service of society and faith.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of several prominent dignitaries. Among them were Kultar Singh Sandhwan, Speaker of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha; Cabinet Ministers Tarundeep Sond and Balbir Singh; former Cabinet Minister Jauramajra; MLA Nainder Bharaj; MLA Ajitpal Singh Kohli (Patiala); MLA Gurlal Singh (Ghanur); MLA Gajjanmajra (Amargarh); former Cabinet Minister Brahm Mohindra; former Union Minister Balwant Singh Ramoowalia; renowned social worker Maninder Singh Manna; internationally acclaimed economist Dr. S.S. Johal; Dr. Arvind, former Vice-Chancellor of Punjabi University Patiala; Kirpal Singh Badungar, former President SGPC; V.K. Janjua, former Chief Secretary of Punjab; and Narinder Singh Kapur.
The stage was ably conducted by Prof. Satish Verma, adding solemnity and reverence to the event. Veteran political leader Balwinder Singh Bhunder extended heartfelt thanks to the guests and attendees for joining in this moment of collective remembrance.
The antim ardas witnessed the presence of senior bureaucrats, government officials, political leaders, eminent literary personalities, academicians, and social figures who gathered to pay their last respects to the legendary figure. Rich floral tributes and messages of homage flowed from institutions across the country.
Dr. Rattan Singh Jaggi’s unmatched dedication, humility, and scholarship have left behind a literary treasure trove that will continue to enlighten future generations.
In his passing, the nation has lost a true son of its soil—an intellectual giant whose words will forever resonate in the soul of Indian literature and spirituality.
