L - Gurmat Veechar

In the context of Punjab, it became doubly important
because not long ago my fatherland had been divided on the
basis of the 'two nation' theory. And here was a piece ofliterature
which emphatically negated that theory. After reading Shah
Mohammed, it becomes abundantly clear that all communalism
in Punjab was the handiwork of the third party, which means
the British, whom Shah Mohammed has aptly described as a
scourge. This view must go before the vast Hindi-reading
audience as well because the Hindus by and large think that it
is the Muslims or the Sikhs who are communal. Let them know
that the boot is on the other leg. Their communalism came as
a reaction to how the Hindus themselves had started thinking
and acting. Hence this rendition in Hindi.
But there is another reason as well. It has for long been
my ambition that, given the opportunity, I should translate the
great Punjabi classic, Heer Wan's Shah. I do not know how I
will acquit myself in handling that stupendous task. Hence, this
act of apprenticeship. If this translation is found worthwhile, I
should feel doubly encouraged to undertake that much
bigger job.
Besides, I have attempted the Hindi translation in the bam/
metre. The purpose is that even the non-Punjabi reading students
of Punjabi extraction may have something to sing which is as
soulful as the Heer. And besides, it would regenerate the spirit
of Shah Mohammed-something essential to fight communalism.
I want to see that day when all the Punjabis, Muslims and Hindus
along with the Sikhs realize the enormous historical folly of
having divided their fatherland. One day this folly is bound to
be realized. But can I be instrumental in advancing it by even
half a second?
273, Sector 17,
Faridabad (Haryana)
May 1, 2000
(52)
P.K. NIJHAWAN