Jalandhar: Professor Kamlesh Duggal wrote autobiography
Jalandhar: Professor Kamlesh Singh Duggal, synonymous with journalism in Doaba, is all set to release his autobiography “Meri Udaan: Amargarh se Jalandhar”. The book narrates his journey from the quiet village of Amargarh in Malerkotla to becoming an eminent figure in the world of journalism and mass communication. The book will be released by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann soon. Known as the man who laid the foundation of modern journalism, Professor Duggal has inspired countless people through his work. His journey began in 1975 when he first became a regular reader of the Punjabi Tribune and soon rose to prominence as a columnist. His early writings had a special focus on regional issues, with his first article “Eh Amargarh Hai Pyare” highlighting the challenges faced by his village.
He said, “Meri Udaan” will provide readers a glimpse of his early years spent in Amargarh, his academic endeavours, his professional journey starting from training in Punjabi media houses during his graduation in journalism and his personal memories. He said, “This book not only outlines my life but also the development of rural Punjab, the struggles of communities and my love for roots.” Currently employed as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) at Guru Nanak Dev University, Ladowali Road, Professor Duggal is promoting preservation of Punjabi language. He has announced in his circles that anyone who writes a letter to him in Punjabi will be given a free copy of his book. “This is my way of encouraging people to respect and cherish our linguistic heritage. So far, I have received about eight letters,” he said.
He said the idea of his memoir came during a 75-day trip to Canada last year, where the peaceful atmosphere of a local library inspired him to reflect deeply on his journey. “This book is an attempt to preserve the details of my life – from the hardships of village life to the opportunities that came when I moved to Ludhiana and eventually Jalandhar,” Professor Duggal said. The autobiography also highlights his landmark contributions to Punjabi journalism, including the launch of his own newspaper Darpan Doaba between 1982 and 1989 and the publication of Punjabi Journalism and Articles, a seminal work on the subject. Peers in the Punjabi journalism community described him as “aam aadmi wang vicharda khaas aadmi” (an extraordinary person who lives like an ordinary person), a sentiment that resonates throughout the book.
