Ludhiana, March 27
Satish Chander Dhawan Government College, Ludhiana organized a thought-provoking theatrical performance. The event was graced by Chief Guest Dr. Rishi Pal Singh (IAS and Registrar, PAU Ludhiana), Special Guest S. Jasdev Singh Sekhon (Joint Commissioner, Municipal Corporation Ludhiana) and noted playwright Dr. Nirmal Jaura (Dean Culture, PAU Ludhiana). The Principal of the college, Prof. (Dr.) Gursharn Jit Singh Sandhu, warmly welcomed the guests and appreciated the socially relevant message of the play, emphasizing its role in inspiring responsible decision-making among youth.
The play, written by Dr. Nirmal Jaura and directed by Shri Nirmal Singh Dhaliwal, was brought to life through a compelling performance by local artists. It portrayed the emotional and moral journey of Punjabi youth who migrate abroad through clandestine and unauthorized means. The play *Vapsi* was staged under the aegis of the Punjab Kala Parishad and the Department of Cultural Affairs.
Moving beyond a conventional critique of migration, the play highlighted the themes of return and self-realisation. It depicted how, despite facing hardships and disillusionment abroad, the youth eventually undergo a transformation in consciousness. This awakening inspires them to return to their homeland, where they recognize their responsibility towards Punjab and actively choose to contribute to its progress.
The presentation carried a strong patriotic sentiment, portraying “return” not as a failure but as a dignified reclaiming of identity, belonging, and duty. The performance left a deep impact on the audience and offered a powerful counter-narrative to the prevailing aspiration of settling abroad at any cost.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Dr. Rishi Pal Singh strongly advised youth against resorting to illegal means of migration. He emphasized that if going abroad is absolutely necessary, one should do so only through legitimate channels — preferably as skilled labour or through other legal pathways — rather than risking life and dignity through unauthorized routes.
At the conclusion of the event, the distinguished guests were honoured with saplings as a token of respect. Prof. Gitanjali Pabreja delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the guests for their presence. The performance was widely appreciated by students and faculty, who deeply connected with its central message of reconnecting with one’s roots.
