Harpal Tiwana

Harpal Singh Tiwana (8 August 1935 - 19 May 2002) was an Indian playwright and film and theatre director known for his Punjabi-language plays and films.[1]

His two ventures into film making Long Da Lishkara and Diva Bale Sari Raat became landmarks in Punjabi cinema. He also directed two television productions – Sanjhi Deewar and an unfinished project on Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

His famous plays include Sirhind di Deewar.[2] He established Punjab Kala Manch at Patiala along with his wife to promote local artists.[3] Both Tiwana and his wife Neena Tiwana are graduates from the National School of Drama.[4] Neena Tiwana and his son Manpal Tiwana are also playing a key role in promoting the theatre in Punjab. He also has a daughter Luna Tiwana.

Harpal died in a road accident near Palampur in Himachal Pradesh, on 19 May 2002, was cremated at Badungar cremation ground at Patiala.[5] The Harpal Tiwana Foundation was set up in his memory after his death.[6]