JAMMU: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha paid tributes to legendary poet and freedom fighter Shri Sarwanand Koul Premi on his death anniversary, today.
On May 01, 1990, Sarwanand Koul Premi was killed by terrorists.
Remembering Sarwanand Koul Premi, the Lt Governor said Sarwanand Ji was a towering man of ideas and ideals. He was undoubtedly one of the greatest writers of his time with deep commitment for upliftment of downtrodden & weaker sections of society, the Lt Governor added.
“Sarwanand ji made great contribution to freedom struggle and infused new life in the bonds of our national unity. Throughout his life, he followed the universal and eternal values of peace, co-existence and cooperation,” said the Lt Governor.
Jammu Kashmir is called the heaven on earth, not only because of its scenic beauty, but the great personalities like Sarwanand ji, who dedicated his life to serve the others, observed the Lt Governor.
“Sarwanand ji was not only a famous writer but also a well known teacher in Kashmir valley who became the medium of divinity for many and inspired the masses to follow the ideals enshrined in our ageless culture and selflessly served the society,” said the Lt Governor.
His life and teachings will continue to be relevant in the 21st century. I would urge the social and literary organizations to come together to spread his teachings to the people across the country, added the Lt Governor.
“J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages to promote the literary work of Sarwanand Koul Premi by publication and translation of his books so that the coming generations could take benefits of the rich literary heritage of J&K. This should be taken on priority. There will be no shortage of funds,” the Lt Governor said.
Sarwanand Koul Premi was conferred with lifetime achievement award posthumously, by J&K Government in 2022. A Higher Secondary School in his village Sof-Shali (Saft-Shaleshwar), Anantnag, was also named after him in 2022.
His name was also included in the list of Unsung Heroes of the freedom movement under Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav. A special postal cover and postal stamp on him was released by the Ministry of Communication in 2021.
Rajinder Premi, son of Sarwanand Koul Premi expressed gratitude to the J&K Administration and JKAACL for promoting the literary work of his late father.
Bharat Singh Manhas, Secretary JKAACL, senior officials and eminent literary personalities were present.