My Dad S Vasdev Singh in 1957
Today, on Father’s Day, I fondly remember my beloved Papa Ji and the many stories that still bring a smile to my face.
Punjab officially adopted the Punjabi script after the state’s reorganization in November 1966, yet for many years government offices and courts continued to use numerous Urdu and Persian terms. In those days, Papa Ji worked in the Sessions Courts at Karnal. One of his duties as an English Clerk was to translate difficult Urdu legal terminology into simple English for official use.
Biji would often laugh at this. Her father, who had served with the British Army during both World Wars and had worked closely with English officers, was quite fluent in English. With his usual wit, he would tease that all his sons-in-law had learned English only up to Tatapur, the first railway station from Multan! It was his humorous way of saying that their English had not traveled very far.
Looking back today, I realize that Papa Ji’s true greatness was not in his command of English but in his honesty, dedication, humility, and commitment to duty. Those qualities earned him the respect of all who knew him and became the values he quietly passed on to us.
On this Father’s Day, I remember him with love, gratitude, and admiration. His lessons in integrity and hard work continue to guide me even today.
Happy Father’s Day, Papa Ji. Your legacy lives on in the hearts of your children and grandchildren. 🙏❤️
