Academic Discussion on Bhagat Lachhman Singh’s Book Nanak Lekhai Ik Gal at Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University

 

The Department of Punjabi at Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University, Fatehgarh Sahib, organized an academic discussion on Bhagat Lachhman Singh’s book Nanak Lekhai Ik Gal (translated and edited by Dr. Hardev Singh). The discussion was inaugurated by Dr. Sukhwinder Singh Billing, Dean Academic Affairs of the University, who introduced the book and the distinguished scholars.

Eminent scholar Dr. Balkar Singh, former Director of the World Punjabi Centre, spoke about establishing the Sikh perspective in Sikh academia through Bhagat Lachhman Singh’s work. He emphasized the need for Sikh scholarship to avoid reactionary tendencies. Further, Professor Kehar Singh, former Chairman of the Punjab School Education Board, highlighted the unity between internal and external spiritual practices. Referring to Orientalism, he pointed out that the thoughts of Rabindranath Tagore and Jadunath Sarkar were shaped under its influence. Dr. Hardev Singh, the editor and translator of the book, welcomed the scholars’ insights. Supporting the need for Sikh academic discourse, he expanded on Professor Kehar Singh’s views by stating that Tagore and Sarkar’s perspectives were influenced not only by Orientalism but also by India’s Nath Yogi tradition. Vice-Chancellor of the University Prof. (Dr.) Prit Pal Singh reflected on the book’s historical significance and assured full support for promoting Sikh scholarship. At the end, Dr. Sikandar Singh expressed gratitude to the distinguished scholars, faculty, and students. He presents his views on the theme of the book, within the historical context of British rule in Punjab, particularly in relation to the railway system, and suggested further discussions on the subject.

This academic discussion brought forward multiple dimensions of the book and paved the way for future scholarly debates. The session was moderated by Dr. Binder Singh.