Floral tributes paid to Dogri poet Padam Dev Singh on his birth anniversary

Akhnoor, April 13: A heartfelt tribute was paid Sunday to the legendary Dogri poet Padam Dev Singh ‘Nirdosh’ on his birth anniversary at the iconic ‘Nirdosh Chowk’ in Akhnoor. A large gathering including local leaders, civil society members, media persons and the general public assembled to honour the unparalleled contribution of ‘Nirdosh’ in promoting Dogri literature and giving global recognition to the language.
The programme commenced with floral tributes and garlanding of the statue of Padam Dev Singh ‘Nirdosh’ at Nirdosh Chowk, formerly known as Fountain Chowk, which was renamed in his memory — a rare honour that highlights the deep respect the region holds for him. MLA Akhnoor, Mohan Lal, while addressing the gathering, said: “Padam Dev Singh ‘Nirdosh’ was not just a poet but the voice of the marginalized. His words carried the fragrance of Dogra culture and the pain of the unheard. His symbolic verses about the Chenab River, especially ‘Balle Balle Bag Ha Chinab Deya Paniyan’, remain etched in our hearts. We must ensure his legacy inspires generations to come.”
DDC Bhushan Bral, Ex-Councillor Rakesh Malhotra, and several dignitaries also spoke on the occasion, recalling the timeless poetry and revolutionary spirit of the poet. Nirdosh, born on April 13, 1940, in Kaleeth, lived among the oppressed and used his pen to amplify their voices. His satirical yet soulful verses like “Tere Raja Ch Ner Peda Krishna Murari…” reflect the social realities with unmatched depth. The programme concluded with a collective resolution to keep the spirit of Dogri language alive by promoting the works of poets like Padam Dev Singh ‘Nirdosh’ in educational and cultural forums.