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 project on Maharaja Ranjit Singh for Doordarshan
His famous plays include Long Da Lishkara, Diva Bale Saari Raat, Mela Munde Kudyian Da, Hind Di Aawaz & Sirhind Di Deewar both historical .[2] He established Punjab Kala Manch at Patiala along with his wife to promote local artists in 1967.[3] Both Tiwana and his wife Neena Tiwana were the first Panjabi’s to graduate 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, while filming Series on Maharaja Ranjit Singh, was cremated at Badungar cremation ground at Patiala.[5] The Harpal Tiwana Foundation was set up in his memory after his death.[6]