Ludhiana, October 8: The Punjabi music and film fraternity, political leaders, and fans are mourning the untimely death of popular singer Rajvir Jawanda, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 35. Jawanda had been in critical condition following a road accident on September 27 in Himachal Pradesh’s Solan district. Police said he lost control of his motorcycle near Baddi while travelling to Shimla and was immediately airlifted to Fortis Hospital in Mohali in an “extremely critical” state.
Fans and colleagues took to social media to express their grief, flooding platforms with tributes to the singer.
Hailing from Kothey Pona village in Jagraon, Ludhiana, Jawanda gained fame with hits such as Tu Dis Penda, Khush Reha Kar, Sardari, Afreen, Landlord, and Kangani. He was also known for films including Subedar Joginder Singh (2018), Jind Jaan (2019), Mindo Taseeldarni (2019), and Kaka Ji.
A pall of grief has settled over his native village, where residents had been holding a path (prayer) for his recovery. “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. We had to conclude the ceremony in shock,” said village Sarpanch Raju Singh Jawanda.
Friends and colleagues remembered Jawanda for his humble nature and strong connection to Punjab’s folk culture. Shiv Singh Jawanda, a close friend, said, “Even during his service as a wireless operator in Punjab Police, he remained grounded and respectful to everyone.”
Members of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha recalled his support for farmers, often lending his voice to their causes. “He was one of us — proud of his roots, proud of Punjab,” said a union activist.
The funeral is scheduled for Thursday at 11 am in Kothey Pona. Hundreds of singers, lyricists, fans, and government dignitaries are expected to attend, according to artist Raghbir Singh Jagga. “Punjab has lost not just a singer, but a voice that carried its soul,” he said.
Jawanda’s music, which celebrated cultural values and social bonding, leaves a lasting legacy, and his death has left the Punjabi entertainment community in mourning.
