Chandigarh, May 11:  Renowned poet and Padma Shri awardee, Dr. Surjit Patar, known for his impactful contributions to Punjabi literature, peacefully passed away in his sleep at the age of 79. Dr. Patar, who began his poetic journey in his mid-sixties, leaves behind a legacy of profound works including “Hawa vich Likhe Harf,” “Birkh Arz Kare,” and “Hanere Vich Sulagdi Varnmala.” His leadership as the president of Punjabi Sahit Akademi and his Padma Shri recognition in 2012 underscore his immense influence and dedication to literature. Dr. Patar, hailing from Patar Kalan village in Jalandhar and retiring as a professor of Punjabi from Punjab Agricultural University, leaves behind a void in the literary world that will be deeply felt by admirers and peers alike.