Dosanjh Kalan, nestled in the heart of Punjab, is a village steeped in history and tradition. It was also birth place and childhood home of my father, Ajit Singh Dosanjh. While the life in the village is something most of us can never experience, we can glimpse the vibrant tapestry of life that defined this unique community through my father’s tales.

A Community of Cooperation

The name “Dosanjh Kalan” itself reflects the spirit of the village—”Do” meaning “two” and “Sanjh” meaning “cooperating with one another.” Life in Dosanjh Kalan was characterized by a strong sense of community and mutual support. The villagers lived closely knit lives, sharing resources, labor, and joys and sorrows alike. This cooperation extended to all aspects of life, from farming to education.

Daily Life and Traditions

Daily life in Dosanjh Kalan was simple yet fulfilling. The village’s economy was primarily agrarian, with most families engaged in farming. Men and women worked in the fields, tending to crops like wheat and rice.

The rhythm of life followed the seasons, with planting, harvesting, and festivals marking the passage of time. To break from the decidedly peaceful, yet mundane routines of village life, festivals and religious observances played a significant role.

Celebrations like Diwali and Vaisakhi brought the community together in joyous gatherings filled with music, dance, and feasting. The local Gurdwara was the spiritual and social center, where villagers gathered for prayers, community meals, and important announcements.

Education and Progress

Education held a special place in Dosanjh Kalan, thanks to pioneers like Kartar Singh Dosanjh, who founded the Guru Har Rai Girls School. This school was a beacon of progress in a time when female education was not widely considered in India. My father often spoke with pride about the school’s role in empowering girls and providing them with opportunities that were otherwise scarce.

The Guru Har Rai Girls School came up so many times during my conversations with Dad. For me, its existence is a reminder of how special Dosanjh Kalan has been in terms of the support given by villagers over the years to education and in particular education for girls.

A Heritage of Resilience

The village’s history was marked by resilience and adaptability. Dosanjh Kalan was founded by families fleeing constant threats of invasion in the 1740s. They established a new home through perseverance and collective effort.

This resilience was evident during the turbulent times of Partition. My father’s accounts of this period describe the fear and uncertainty that gripped the village. Yet, even in the face of such adversity, the community’s spirit of cooperation and support helped them navigate the challenges and rebuild their lives.

Personal Memories

My father’s memories of Dosanjh Kalan are filled with vivid anecdotes that bring the village to life. He spoke fondly of his schooling days, the friendships he formed, and the simple joys of village life. The collective heritage and the emphasis on education and learning had a profound impact on him, shaping his values and aspirations.

One of his favorite stories was about the Guru Har Rai Girls School and the progressive visionaries who made it possible. He often recalled the pride the villagers took in the school’s success and how it symbolized their commitment to a better future.

Legacy and Influence

The legacy of Dosanjh Kalan lives on in the stories and memories of those who once called it home. Its influence extends beyond the village boundaries, shaping the lives of many who ventured out in search of new opportunities.

For my father and many others, the values and lessons learned in Dosanjh Kalan were the foundation upon which they built their futures. While I have lived in the UK my whole life, this simple village thousands of miles away has played huge part in making my life what it is today, and for that I will always be grateful to it.