MY LETTER TO CHIEF SECRETARY, PUNJAB: GREAT SUFI SINGER-BARKAT SIDHU: Dated:17.8.2014 To Chief Secretary to Government of Punjab, Punjab Civil Secretariat, Chandigarh. Subject : Barkat Sidhu. Sir, As you must be aware by now, that renowned Sufi Singer, Barkat Sidhu, expired yesterday after struggling with deadly disease of cancer. During his last days, he was “waiting for death” in a friend’s house, since his own house was unsafe for the reason that its roof was leaking. Thus, out of compulsion, he had to be kept at friend’s house for last few days. Thus, it would not be inappropriate to say that the noted Punjabi singer, who preserved the Punjabi culture and heritage, and earned name and fame as a classical singer, left this world in a state of penury. It is a matter of serious concern for all those people who work for preserving and maintaining cultural heritage of Punjab. I would, therefore, request you to issue requisite amount of grant for constructing/renovating the house of Late Shri Barkat Sidhu in his village, and also consider giving some job to his son Laddi Sidhu, preferably in the department of Culture, of the Punjab Government, as an act of honour and gratitude to the legendary classical singer. Government may consider announcing some annual award in the name of this legend for those young men, who selflessly work for preserving Punjabi culture and heritage. I have been told that before leaving this world, Barkat Sidhu expressed his serious concern about the pitiable condition of mother tongue, Punjabi. Government of Punjab shall be honouring his last wish, if it sets up such an Award in memory of this great Sufi Singer. I shall be grateful if you kindly take up the above issue with the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Punjab, so that these measures may be announced at the Bhog ceremony of this legend. Meanwhile, please acknowledge receipt of this notice. Thanking you Yours sincerely (H.C. ARORA) ADVOCATE.
Posted on: Sun, 17 Aug 2014 07:35:56 +0000