Ludhiana, Oct 15, 2025(Yes Punjab News)
The Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) fraternity came together today to pay heartfelt tributes to the memory of Dr Jaswinder Bhalla, a beloved colleague, artist, and an enduring symbol of Punjabi culture and humour. The solemn ceremony was held at the Dr. Manmohan Singh Auditorium, where his family, friends and artists from the world of art and culture, joined the officers of the university, faculty, students, and staff to honour his life and legacy. Remembered not only for his immense contribution to Punjabi cinema and theatre, but also for his long association with the university as a teacher and mentor, Dr Jaswinder Bhalla’s demise on August 22, this year has left a deep void both in academic and artistic circles.
Respects in the form of floral tributes were paid in his everlasting memory by PAU Vice-Chancellor Dr Satbir Singh Gosal; Director Student Welfare Dr Nirmal Jaura; Deans, Directors, Officers and Heads of Departments of the university; alongside Dr Bhalla’s family- his better half- Mrs. Paramdeep Kaur Bhalla; son- Mr Pukhraj Bhalla, a young Punjabi actor; daughter-in-law- Mrs Dishdeep Kaur Bhalla; sister- Mrs Kuljit Kaur; brother-in-law- Mr Rajpal Singh; who were joined by Dr Bal Mukand Sharma, Chairman, Punjab State Food Commission; and his wife Mrs Kanchan Sharma; Sh. Gurpreet Singh Toor (Retd. IPS); artist Ms Neelu Sharma; and guests.
Fondly remembering the legendary Punjabi actor, comedian, and academician, PAU Vice-Chancellor Dr Satbir Singh Gosal described Dr Bhalla as “a rare combination of intellect, humour, and humanity.” He further shared that “Dr Bhalla’s work reflected the spirit of Punjab, its warmth, resilience, and laughter, and that his memory will continue to inspire generations to come.” From his unforgettable performances on stage and screen to his poignant portrayals of everyday Punjabi life, Dr Bhalla became a household name – an artist whose humour was rooted in authenticity and whose message carried the pulse of the people, he added. Dr Gosal also shared with pride that Dr Bhalla was “the face of PAU Kisan Melas”, adding how the crowds teemed to witness the melas that were superbly anchored by the famed artist.
Warmly reminiscing the great artist, Dr Nirmal Jaura said that Dr Bhalla was known for his inimitable comic timing and sharp social insight. His art was more than mere entertainment; it was cultural commentary; and the characters he essayed held a mirror to society. Whether through film dialogues, stage satire, or witty one-liners, he captured the evolving landscape of Punjabi identity with rare sensitivity, Dr Jaura said, noting that his humour was never at the expense of others; rather, it was inclusive, humane, and profoundly relatable.
Expressing profound sorrow at the irreparable loss of the passing away of his long-time friend and associate, Dr Bal Mukand Sharma, shared “Jaswinder Bhalla ji was more than a colleague; he was a guide, a philosopher, and a friend. Recalling their university days, and the theatre performances in the PAU auditoriums, a visibly emotional Dr Sharma pointed, “He taught us that humour could be powerful, meaningful, and deeply human. His legacy will live forever in the hearts of Punjabis everywhere.” His departure is a great personal loss to me, he added.
Mr Pukhraj Bhalla remembered his father as “a true cultural icon who celebrated Punjab in all its colours – its joy, its resilience, and its earthy wit.” He went on to express his gratitude to PAU that had provided the initial platform which opened up wider vistas for the talented actor who launched an illustrious career in Punjabi cinema thereafter. Mrs Paramdeep Bhalla recited a poem in the everlasting memory of her late husband. Punjabi singer actor Mr Sukhwinder Sukhi shared his gratitude to the departed soul who was instrumental in flagging-off his career in the world of Punjabi music. Bhai Joginder Singh Riar, soulful kirtaniye, reflected on the deeply spiritual nature of Dr Bhalla, who he said, was pious and noble.
Beyond the world of acting, Dr Jaswinder Bhalla was a respected academician, admired for his humility and dedication. Voicing such emotions, several of his colleagues and students shared personal anecdotes, fondly recalling him as a mentor who never failed to encourage creativity and optimism. A short documentary highlighting his journey – from a teacher and researcher to a celebrated actor – was also screened during the event. His batch mate, Mr Sukhwant Sidhu warmly remembered how he carried his scholarly temperament into his creative world, lending his humour both depth and dignity.
Additional Director Communication Dr Tejinder Singh Riar, while proposing a vote of thanks, rightly summed up, “Dr Jaswinder Bhalla was not just an actor; he was a movement, a cultural institution in himself.” His voice will continue to echo in the hearts of millions who found joy and meaning in his art, he summed up.
The commemoration ceremony was seamlessly coordinated by Dr Rupinder Toor, Associate Director Culture; and conducted by Dr Divya Utreja. The day concluded with a moment of silence in honour of the departed soul, as the university resolved to celebrate his life and contributions through future cultural initiatives and memorial events. The university authorities felicitated Dr Jaswinder Bhalla’s wife and son with a surreal pictorial portrait of the illustrious Dr Bhalla, capturing the eternal winsome cheer of the man who entertained generations through his memorable performances on stage and screen. Beyond the laughter, Dr Jaswinder Bhalla will always be cherished as a symbol of integrity, intellect, and humility – a true son of the soil who carried Punjab’s spirit wherever he went.
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