Ludhiana, October 8: A pall of grief has descended on Kothey Pona village in Jagraon after the untimely death of popular Punjabi singer Rajvir Jawanda. The 35-year-old artist, known for his deep connection with Punjab’s folk roots, passed away following a road accident near Baddi, Himachal Pradesh.
Residents of his native village, who had been holding a path (prayer) for his recovery, were devastated when the news of his death broke on social media. “We were gathering to perform the Bhog of the path of Guru Granth Sahib to pray for Rajvir’s long life when the news came in. We had to conclude the ceremony in shock,” said village Sarpanch Raju Singh Jawanda.
Rajvir’s songs such as Dheean, Khush Reha Kar, Jamme Nall Dey, Sukh and Sakoon are deeply cherished across Punjab for celebrating the state’s cultural values and social harmony. Many in his village remember him not only as a singer but as a humble son of the soil who never let fame change him.
Shiv Singh Jawanda, a close friend, recalled that Rajvir began singing during his school years at Sanmati Senior Secondary School, Jagraon, before completing his senior secondary from a convent school in Sidhwan and pursuing graduation and music studies at Lajpat Rai Memorial College, Jagraon. “Even during his service as a wireless operator in Punjab Police, he remained grounded and respectful to everyone,” he said.
Farm union members also remembered Rajvir for his support to the Samyukt Kisan Morcha, where he often lent his voice to the farmers’ cause. “He was one of us — proud of his roots, proud of Punjab,” said an activist from the union.
Rajvir Jawanda had also acted in Punjabi films including Kaka Ji, Subedar Joginder Singh, and Zind Jaan. His untimely death has left fans and the music fraternity heartbroken.
The funeral will take place at his native village, Kothey Pona, at 11 am on Thursday. An obituary card has been shared online inviting fans and well-wishers to pay their last respects.
“Hundreds of singers, lyricists, fans, and government dignitaries are expected to attend the funeral,” said Raghbir Singh Jagga, a fellow artist. “Punjab has lost not just a singer, but a voice that carried its soul.”
