Jammu, October 13, 2025 – In a celebration of literary excellence and cultural heritage, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today released the Punjabi poetry collection Mele Pattanan De, authored by the renowned writer and Padma Shri awardee Dr. Jitendra Udhampuri, at Raj Bhawan here.The event, held amid a gathering of distinguished guests, dignitaries, and literary enthusiasts, underscored the importance of promoting regional languages and fostering harmony through art and literature. Shri Sinha, who has been a steadfast patron of cultural initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir, personally unveiled the book and extended his warm congratulations to Dr. Udhampuri for his invaluable contributions to Punjabi literature.
A Tribute to Punjab’s Vibrant Traditions
Mele Pattanan De (Fairs of the Leaves) is a poignant anthology that captures the essence of Punjab’s rural life, folklore, and seasonal festivities through evocative verses. Dr. Udhampuri, a celebrated poet, storyteller, and columnist with over five decades in the literary field, weaves themes of nostalgia, community, and nature’s rhythms into his work. His poetry not only preserves the linguistic richness of Punjabi but also bridges generational gaps by resonating with contemporary readers.Speaking on the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor remarked, “Literature like Dr. Udhampuri’s serves as a bridge connecting our past with the present, reminding us of the joys found in simple traditions. This collection is a testament to the enduring spirit of Punjabi culture.” He further emphasized the role of such works in promoting peace and inter-faith dialogue, aligning with broader initiatives at Raj Bhawan.
Dr. Jitendra Udhampuri: A Literary Luminary
Padma Shri Dr. Jitendra Udhampuri, born in 1940 in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir, is a multilingual author proficient in Dogri, Hindi, Urdu, and Punjabi. A retired civil servant and former Director of Information in J&K, he has authored over 50 books, including poetry, short stories, and children’s literature. His accolades include the Padma Shri (2020), Sahitya Akademi Award (2014 for Dogri), and numerous state honors. Mele Pattanan Demarks another milestone in his illustrious career, following acclaimed works like Boliyaan Jammu Di and Ghar Ghar Di Kahani.The release was attended by prominent figures, including His Holiness Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni Ji of Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti, who engaged in discussions on peace and harmony. The event also featured recitations from the book, highlighting its melodic and accessible style.
Promoting Literary Dialogue in J&K
This release is part of a series of cultural engagements at Raj Bhawan aimed at nurturing local talent and preserving linguistic diversity. Under Shri Manoj Sinha’s leadership, similar initiatives have spotlighted works in Kashmiri, Dogri, and Urdu, reinforcing J&K’s composite cultural fabric.The book is now available through leading publishers and online platforms, inviting readers to immerse in the poetic fairs of Punjab’s autumn leaves.
