Padma Shri recipient Punjabi poet and writer Surjit Singh Patar passed away on Saturday( 11 May, 2024) morning at his residence near the Barewal Colony in Punjab's Ludhiana. He was 79.

Patar's poetic works include Hawa Vich Likhe Harf, Hanere Vich Sulagdi Varanmala, Patjhar Di Pazeb, Lafzaan Di Dargah and Surzameen. He received the Padma Shri in 2012.

He was the President of the Punjab Arts Council.