Dr Parminder Singh Buttar of village Buttar Sharin, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Punjab has received his PhD degree at 69th convocation at Panjab University Chandigarh held on May 6, 2022. Dr Singh has worked under Prof. Reeta Grewal of department of History, Panjab University. His topic of research is Bhai Kahn Singh Nabha and the late 19th- early 20th century Punjab: A Historical perspective on his writings. Bhai Kahn Singh is one of the unique personalities of 19th centuries who not only just wrote about a change in society and other forms of life but also made practical efforts for it.
Known for his famous works like Gurshabad Ratnakar Mahankosh, Raj Dharam, Vijay Swam Dharam, Gurmat Sudhakar, Gurmat Prabhakar, Hum Hindu Nahi and dozens more works, Kahn Singh Nabha has left indelible mark on the mindset of the scholars of this field. Many institutions has named the libraries after his name. His books and other works are available at Punjabi University Patiala in bulk and The Tribune newspapers of early 20th century.
Dr Parminder Singh has chosen the time period of Colonial Punjab in a transformation in all spheres of society. It was the time when Socio- religious reform movements were redefining and restructuring the beliefs and practices of Society. In this atmosphere of communal consciousness, Bhai Kahn Singh’s works reflect the emerging social reality. His works include aspects of society, religion, administration and governance and identity. He highlighted the social issues and concerns of his times; clarified aspect of Sikh religion and practice and reiterated the distinct identity of the Sikhs.He also presents a model of an ideal ruler, minister and responsibility of administrators and other government servants.
Bhai Kahn Singh’s writings are significant for giving a blue print of a model society which is possible only through the education. His prime focus on proving the Sikhs to be distinct from Hindus while talking about distinct Sikh identity he maintained the respect of all other religions. From social, religious, governance and identity point of view, his works need attention for the present generation that is an attempt of the present research work which intends to find out historical significance of his works. Dr Parminder has the opinion that his work is just a beginning and there is much more than can be explored and brought forward among the world of scholars. Bhai Kahn Singh ideas, if followed can bring a positive change in every aspect of the society in present days as well.
