An award to advance Punjabi language and literature
Since its launch in 2013, The Dhahan Prize for Punjabi Literature has established itself as the world’s premier award for new works of Punjabi fiction. In that regard, it has been successful in uplifting and drawing attention to the wealth of artistic expression in the Punjabi language.
In 2023, the organization created a global scholarship initiative, ‘The Dhahan Luminaries Award,’ to build literary and research capacity in Punjabi studies.
The Dhahan Luminaries Award opens the door for Master’s students studying in specific fields of Punjabi arts and humanities to apply for awards. The awards are designed to aid in the prolongation of Punjabi language, art and historical record around the world.
A minimum of 42 Master’s students are expected to benefit from the Award.
Why it’s important
In todays’ modern age, technological, educational and economic global systems demand more and more use of English. As a result, many of the world’s languages may be destined for extinction. The rich traditions and knowledge they carry with them may also be lost in future generations.
However, as history shows us, languages can be preserved and revitalized through the work of scholarly creatives in the fields of art, theatre, literature, literary criticism, poetry, research and more.
It’s the individuals who devote their lives to the documentation of tradition, and who work to transform tradition to its modern expressions, that we have to thank for the continuation of diverse languages and cultures.
Higher education typically receives financial support at the PhD level, but infrequently at the Master’s level. Yet, a Master’s degree is needed as a ‘stepping stone’ to obtain a PhD.
The Dhahan Luminaries Award aims to fill this gap for post-graduate students who are committed to advancing Punjabi language and preserving its culture.
It is our hope that, through the Dhahan Luminaries Award, emerging scholars and writers will carry on the legacy of the Punjabi language for generations to come.
Investment
A total of $200,000 will be devoted to the Dhahan Luminaries Award, split between the following colleges and universities based on signed partner agreements with the Dhahan Prize:
In Canada
University of British Columbia (UBC) Asian Studies Department, Vancouver
- $50,000 to support 3 students for 6 years (UBC matches another $50,000)
In India
Punjabi University, Patiala
- $25,000 to support 10 students for 6 years.
Khalsa College, Amritsar
- $25,000 to support 10 students for 6 years.
In Pakistan
Lahore College for Women University, Lahore
- $25,000 to support 10 students for 6 years.
Government College University, Faisalabad
- $25,000 to support 10 students for 6 years.
Application process
Each of the above-named universities will invite applicants through their respective communication networks. Universities will handle all application processes.
The Dhahan Prize can not receive applications directly.
