Chandigarh: National Award-winning lyricist Dr Irshad Kamil and celebrated Sufi singer-poet Dr Satinder Sartaaj returned to their alma mater, Panjab University (PU), Sunday for Lafz Sur Aur Safar, an interactive session organised by the Panjab University Alumni Association and Chandigarh Citizens Foundation.Moderated by Prof Pushpinder Syal and Prof Archana R. Singh, the session explored the duo’s creative journeys, their years at PU and the experiences that shaped their artistic careers.Recalling his time at the university, where he earned a PhD in Hindi literature, Kamil spoke about his early struggles in Mumbai and the persistence required to break into the film industry. He also highlighted the influence of Punjabi literature on Bollywood music, noting that songs such as Aaj Din Chadheya drew inspiration from the writings of poet Shiv Kumar Batalvi.
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Kamil also recited excerpts from his poetry collection Ek Mahina Nazmon Ka.Sartaaj, who completed both his Master’s degree and PhD at PU, credited the university’s academic environment and his research in Sufi music for shaping his poetry and compositions. He fondly recalled giving his first public performance on campus and said poetry has the power to transcend all boundaries. Asked how he would like to be remembered, Sartaaj replied, “As a poet and a music composer.”PU vice-chancellor Prof Renu Vig welcomed the guests and said interactions with distinguished alumni inspire students to pursue their dreams with creativity, dedication and perseverance.The programme began with a rendition of Saraswati Vandana by PU students, followed by the university anthem, Shaan-o-Shaukat, penned by Kamil.
