Dr Joginder Singh, former professor and head of the Department of History at Guru Nanak Dev University, has released his latest book, Sardul Singh Kavishar Panthak Te Rajjasi Mudeyan De Sanmukh (“Sardul Singh Kavishar: In the Context of Panthic and Political Issues”). The publication marks his 14th book and reflects his continued contribution to the study of modern Sikh history.
Following his retirement, Dr Joginder Singh continued his academic and research work in association with Bhai Vir Singh Sahit Sadan. Known for his balanced interpretation of historical facts and sources, he has earned recognition as a respected scholar whose work has helped dispel several misconceptions while highlighting lesser-known aspects of Sikh history.
His latest book focuses on Sardul Singh Kavishar (1886-1963), a noted freedom fighter, political activist, religious-political thinker and journalist associated with both Punjabi and English journalism.
Dr Joginder Singh said Kavishar was initially active in Sikh politics and played a significant role in mobilising the Panthic movement against the demolition of the outer wall of Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib by British authorities.
Kavishar also remained a frontline leader during the Gurdwara Reform Movement and continued serving the Panth through his writings in newspapers and magazines. However, disillusioned by the narrow outlook and self-interest of several Panthic leaders, he later shifted towards national politics and became active in the Congress.
He served as Congress national president during 1932-33. Later, in 1937, he resigned from Congress and, in 1939, joined the Forward Bloc led by Subhas Chandra Bose.
Following the Partition, Kavishar withdrew from active politics but continued sharing his views on national and Panthic issues with contemporary leaders. His writings continue to be respected in academic circles for their mature Sikh intellectual perspective. His understanding of Sikh community issues and national politics was deeply rooted in Sikh philosophy and Guru-period history, while his strong religious commitment remained evident throughout his writings.
Dr Joginder Singh’s book traces the transformation of Kavishar’s Panthic zeal into a broader national outlook. It also preserves many of his important writings on contemporary political and religious issues, which are considered valuable and authentic sources for understanding Sikh history during the first half of the 20th century.
Dr Joginder Singh’s major works include Religious Pluralism in Punjab, The Sikh Resurgence, The Sikh Leadership, The Sikh Militancy, Namdhari Guru Ram Singh: A Biography, A Short History of Namdhari Sikhs of Punjab, Punjabi Journalism, The Namdhari Sikhs: Their Changing Social and Cultural Landscape, Reflections on Ghadhar Movement and Reflections on Kamagata Maru Episode.