Surjit Patar (1945–2024) was one of Punjab’s most celebrated modern poets, known for his lyrical depth, philosophical themes, and commitment to Punjabi language and culture. A former Punjabi Sahit Akademi president, he bridged folk traditions and contemporary poetry, earning accolades like the Sahitya Akademi Award (1993) for “Hanere Vich Sulagdi Varnmala”.