PHAGWARA: Former Canadian Member of Parliament Ruby Dhalla was honoured with the prestigious “Dhee Punjab Di” Award during a special ceremony held in Phagwara on Sunday. The award was presented by the Punjabi Kala and Sahit Centre and Sangeet Darpan (Monthly Magazine) in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the promotion of Punjabi language, culture and global representation of the Punjabi community.
Speaking at the event, Principal Gurmeet Singh Palahi, President of the Punjabi Columnist Journalist Manch (Regd.), said that Punjabi diaspora across the world has achieved remarkable success through dedication and hard work in fields such as business, agriculture and even politics. He noted that Ruby Dhalla stands as an inspiring example among these achievers, having been elected four times as a Member of Parliament on the ticket of the Liberal Party of Canada. He further mentioned that she emerged as a mature and influential contender during the party’s leadership considerations for the post of Prime Minister of Canada.
Dr. Akshita Gupta (IAS), Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation Phagwara, congratulated Dhalla on receiving the “Dhee Punjab Di” Award and commended her for bringing honour to women at an international level. President Taranjeet Singh Kinnra also praised Dhalla for safeguarding and promoting Punjab, Punjabi language and Punjabi identity across the world.
Expressing her gratitude during the ceremony, Ruby Dhalla said she feels proud to have dedicated her life to social service through politics, always prioritising the welfare of Punjabis as well as the people of Canada. She stated that she has consistently advocated for the rights of the needy, the elderly and all those who face challenges and marginalisation in society.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Harvinder Basra, who appreciated the presence of all dignitaries and guests. Many prominent personalities attended the ceremony, including Advocate Vijay Sharma, Advocate S.L. Virdi, Ravinder Rai, Baldev Komal, Haripal Singh (Chairman), Jagjit Singh Jaura, Chetan Bajaj, Sarabjit Kanda, Amit Taneja, Karamail Singh, Bhupinder Singh Kaali, Rimple Puri and Malkiat Singh Ragbotra. Ruby Dhalla was honoured with a commemorative memento, a traditional robe of honour (siropa) and a set of books by the Punjabi Kala and Sahit Centre. Members of the Banga Road Market Association also presented her with a special honour.