CHANDIGARH AUGUST 8:The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced to set up a state-of-the-art auditorium in the memory of noted playwright Mr. Harpal Tiwana to perpetuate his vision and passion for Punjabi theatre for generations to come.
Addressing a galaxy of eminent artists and Punjabi singers here at Punjab Bhawan after releasing a book titled ‘Oh Jo Si’ authored by his wife Mrs Neena Tiwana on the life and works of late Mr. Harpal Tiwala on his 73rd birthday, the Chief Minister said that the state government was committed to promote the Punjabi performing arts and culture in a fulfilment of a dream nurtured by Harpal Tiwana. Mr. Badal asked the Harpal Tiwana Foundation to submit the detailed report of the project for setting up a theatre either at Patiala or Mohali as per its choice. He asked the foundation to work out the finer details in consultation with the prominent artists to make this auditorium as one of the best auditoriums in the country.
Mr. Badal said that Mr. Harpal Tiwana’s superb contribution for the promotion of Punjab, Punjabi and Punjabiat would be ever remembered by one and all for the times to come. He said that the setting up of this auditorium would not only cherish the aspirations of the foundation but also further propagate the Punjabi theatre movement in every nook and corner of not only in the country but abroad also.
The Chief Minister also announced to commemorate the birthday of ‘Voice of India’ late Ishmeet Singh which falls on September 2 to pay befitting tributes to the budding singer youngster. He also mentioned that the state government had already decided to set up a ‘Sangeet Academy’ dedicated to Ishmeet for his outstanding performance in promotion of Punjabi culture. He solicited the cooperation from the renowned singers to advise the government for conceptualization and planning of this academy.
Earlier welcoming Mr. Badal, the chairperson of the foundation Mrs.Neena Tiwana said that Harpal was the true custodian and champion of the Punjabi theatre movement whose legacy would continue to inspire future generations. "In paying tribute to him, we pay tribute to God’s very own artistic son", said Mrs.Tiwana adding he was born for theatre and died for it.
Speaking on the occasion, creative director of the foundation and Harpal Tiwana’s son Manpal Tiwana said that the aim of the Harpal Tiwana Foundation was to create a permanent legacy that would honour Harpal Tiwana’s commitment to Punjabi performing arts and to preserve, enhance and promote Punjabi culture through the medium of performing arts.
Mr. Om Puri, Internationally acclaimed actor Miss Nirmal Rishi, acclaimed cine actress and eminent Punjabi singer Gurdas Mann paid their rich tributes through sharing their experiences with Harpal Tiwana.
Others who spoke on the occasion included Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra and Mr. Amarjit Singh Sidhu (both senior Akali Leaders). The function was attended by renowned artists and singers including Hans Raj Hans, Dr. S. Anjum Bhatti, Mr. Pammi Bai and Mr.Bhagwant Mann.