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JKAACL Mourns the Death of Renowned Punjabi Literary Figure Kanwal Kashmiri

JKAACL Mourns the Death of Renowned Punjabi Literary Figure Kanwal Kashmiri

The Kashmir Horizon

30 January 2026

Bold News

The literary community of Jammu and Kashmir is mourning the loss of Paramjit Singh Bali, widely known as Kanwal Kashmiri, who passed away at 89. A distinguished Punjabi critic and writer, Kashmiri left behind a rich literary legacy that earned him numerous accolades, including four Best Writer Awards from JKAACL and the prestigious *Shiromani Award* from the Punjab Government.

Kanwal Kashmiri held a unique position in the cultural landscape of the region, having twice served as a member of the Sub-Advisory Board of Punjabi Language at JKAACL while also making history as the first Sikh officer inducted into the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service.

A condolence meeting at his Guru Nanak Nagar residence brought together writers, intellectuals and JKAACL officials, including Secretary Harvinder Kaur and Additional Secretary Lal Chand, who gathered to honor his contributions to the promotion and preservation of Punjabi language and literature.

Kashmiri's passing represents a significant loss to the literary fraternity, leaving behind generations of writers and scholars who found inspiration in his work and guidance.