The UPSC Punjabi Literature Syllabus for 2026 evaluates the knowledge of the Punjabi language and its heritage. This syllabus consists of two papers: Paper 1 and Paper 2. Each paper carries 250 marks, which totals 500 marks. In Paper 1, the focus is on the historical evolution of the Punjabi language. On the other hand, Paper 2 covers modern Punjabi literature along with its literary criticism.
In this article, we will discuss the UPSC Punjabi Literature Syllabus in detail. We will provide an overview of both Paper 1 and Paper 2.
UPSC Punjabi Literature Syllabus 2026
The UPSC Punjabi Literature Syllabus covers the complete scope of Punjabi literature. It examines its historical background, spanning from classical to modern literary developments. Additionally, the curriculum includes the works of various important authors in prose, poetry, and drama. This comprehensive approach helps develop thematic diversity and stylistic nuances.
Moreover, the UPSC Punjabi Literature syllabus highlights the cultural significance of Punjabi literature. As a result, the UPSC Punjabi Literature Syllabus motivates students to engage critically with interpretive texts. This engagement occurs within the broader historical and cultural contexts of the literature.
For complete exam planning and clarity, refer to this Guide UPSC Examination covering syllabus and strategy.
| Mains Papers | Subject | Marks |
| Paper VI | Punjabi Literature Optional Paper 1 | 250 |
| Paper VII | Punjabi Literature Optional Paper 2 | 250 |
| TOTAL | 500 | |
| Time Duration | 3 hours |
UPSC Punjabi Literature Optional Syllabus: Paper 1
The UPSC Punjabi Literature Optional Syllabus for Paper 1 covers the history and classical roots of Punjabi literature. First, the paper provides a foundational understanding of phonetics, morphology, syntax, and vocabulary of the Punjabi language. In addition, it includes traditional folk literature, which encompasses folk tales, ballads, and myths.
Furthermore, the UPSC Punjabi Literature Syllabus for paper 1 offers an in-depth study of ancient and medieval Punjabi literature. It highlights the contributions of eminent literary figures such as Guru Nanak, Waris Shah, Shah Hussain, and Bulleh Shah. Their thematic preoccupations and literary styles are critically examined, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of their impact on Punjabi literature.
Below is the UPSC syllabus for Punjabi literature Paper 1:
| Section | Topics of UPSC Punjabi Optional Syllabus |
| Section-A | Origin of Punjabi Language; different stages of development and recent development in Punjabi Language; characteristics of Punjabi phonology and the study of its tones; classification of vowels and consonants. |
| Punjabi morphology: the number-gender system (animate and inanimate), prefixes, affixes and different categories of postpositions; Punjabi word formation: Tatsam, Tad Bhav, forms; Sentence structure, the notion of subject and object in Punjabi; Noun and verb phrases. | |
| Language and dialect: the notions of dialect and idiolect; major dialects of Punjabi: Pothohari, Majhi, Doabi, Malwai, Paudhi; the validity of speech variation on the basis of social stratification, the distinctive features of various dialects with special reference to tones. Language and script; origin and development of Gurumukhi; Suitability of Gurumukhi for Punjabi. | |
| Classical background: Nath Jogi Sahit, Medieval literature: Gurmat, Suti, Kissa and Var; Janamsakhis. | |
| Section-B | Modern trends: Mystic, romantic, progressive and neomystic (Vir Singh, Puran Singh, Mohan Singh, Amrita Pritam, Bawa Balwant, Pritam Singh Safeer, J. S. Neki). |
| Experimentalist (Jasbir Singh Ahluwalia, Ravinder Ravi, Ajaib Kamal). Aesthetes (Harbhajan Singh, Tara Singh). | |
| Neo-progressive (Pa12sh, Jagtar, Patar). | |
| Folk Literature: Folk songs, Folk tales, Riddles, Proverbs. | |
| Epic (Vir Singh, Avtar Singh Azad, Mohan Singh). | |
| Lyric (Gurus, Sufis and Modern Lyricists-Mohan Singh, Amrita Pritam, Shiv Kumar, Harbhajan Singh). | |
| Drama: (I.C. Nanda, Harcharan Singh, Balwant Gargi, S.S. Sekhon, Charan Das Sidhu). | |
| Novel (Vir Singh, Nanak Singh, Jaswant Singh Kanwal, K.S. Duggal, Sukhbir, Gurdial Singh, Dalip Kaur Tiwana, Swaran Chandan). | |
| Short Story (Sujan Singh, K. S. Virk, Prem Parkash, Waryam Sandhu). | |
| Socio-cultural: Sanskrit, Persian and Western. | |
| Literary influences | |
| Essay (Puran Singh, Teja Singh, Gurbaksh Singh). | |
| Literary Criticism (S.S. Sekhon, Attar Singh, Kishan Singh, Harbhajan Singh, Najam Hussain Sayyad). |
UPSC Punjabi Literature Optional Syllabus: Paper 2
The UPSC Punjabi Literature Optional syllabus for Paper 2 emphasizes modern literary works and literary criticism. Additionally, it offers a comprehensive analysis of contemporary Punjabi poetry, prose, and drama. This analysis is set within the context of socio-political changes and cultural movements.
The UPSC Punjabi Literature syllabus encourages thematic and stylistic evaluation of notable modern writers, such as Shiv Kumar Batalvi and Amrita Pritam. Through this examination, candidates will review their contributions to Punjabi poetry. Furthermore, the prose section includes short stories and novels. Here, the focus is on narrative techniques and evolving themes.
Moreover, the contributions of significant Punjabi dramatists are also studied. This section pays attention to the growth of Punjabi theatre. Additionally, the paper introduces candidates to critical theories. These theories encompass both Indian and Western perspectives, fostering analytical engagement with literary texts. Ultimately, the syllabus aims to cultivate a refined understanding of modern literary trends in Punjabi literature.
Aspirants choosing Punjabi optional can strengthen preparation with structured UPSC mains mentorship and expert answer guidance.
Below is the UPSC syllabus for Punjabi literature Paper 2:
| Section | Topics of UPSC Punjabi Optional Syllabus |
| Section A (Classical Literature) | Sheikh Farid – The complete Bani as included in the Adi Granth. |
| Guru Nanak – Japu Ji, Baramah, Asa di Var. | |
| Bulleh Shah – Kafian. | |
| Waris Shah – Heer. | |
| Section B (Modern Literature) | Shah Mohammad – Jangnama (Jang Singhante Firangian). |
| Dhani Ram Chatrik (Poet) – Chandan Vari, Sufi Khana, Nawan Jahan. | |
| Nanak Singh (Novelist) – Chitta Lahu, Pavittar Papi, Ek Mian Do Talwaran. | |
| Gurbaksh Singh (Essayist) – Zindagi-di-Ras, Nawan Shivala, Merian Abhul Yadaan. | |
| Balraj Sahni (Travelogue)– Mera Roosi Safarnama, Mera Pakistani Safarnama. | |
| Balwant Gargi (Dramatist) – Loha Kutt, Dhuni-di-Agg, Sultan Razia. | |
| Sant Singh Sekhon (Critic) – Sahityarth, Parsidh Punjabi Kavi, Punjabi Kav Shiromani. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the UPSC Punjabi Literature Syllabus for 2026 provides a deep understanding of Punjabi literature. It covers everything from its classical origins to modern developments. Furthermore, the syllabus encourages critical engagement with key authors.
Additionally, it highlights the cultural significance of the language. Ultimately, mastering this syllabus will aid in UPSC exam success. Moreover, it will enhance appreciation for the rich heritage of Punjabi literature.
Aspirants seeking expert faculty may explore UPSC Coaching in Guwahati for focused optional and mains preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, candidates can write the UPSC Mains exam and appear for the interview in Punjabi if chosen as their medium.
The 7/5/3 rule suggests preparing the syllabus in 7 months, revising it 5 times, and writing 3 answers daily for practice.
The UPSC Punjabi Literature optional involves studying classical and modern works of a language, focusing on themes, criticism, and literary styles.
Yes, many aspirants have cleared UPSC within 3 attempts with proper planning and preparation
It refers to the maximum word limit for long-form answers in the UPSC Mains exam.
