“Dreams Have No Address”: How a Newspaper Hawker Became Director Public Relations at Punjabi University
Patiala, April 14
In a heartwarming story of grit and determination, Dr. Harminder Singh Khokhar has been appointed as the new Director, Public Relations at Punjabi University, Patiala — one of Punjab’s most prestigious institutions.
What makes this appointment truly remarkable is Dr. Khokhar’s extraordinary journey — from selling newspapers on the streets of Patiala as a young hawker to rising to one of the top administrative positions in the university.
Born and raised in Patiala, Dr. Khokhar completed his early schooling at Government High School, Gandhi Nagar. He went on to earn his B.A. (Hons.) and M.A. in History from the renowned Government Mohindra College, Patiala, followed by a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from Punjabi University itself.
His passion for journalism began early. In 1993, while still young, he launched and edited his own Punjabi weekly newspaper — ‘Khokhar Di Awaaz’ — single-handedly handling the roles of editor, printer, and publisher.
In 1998, his hard work paid off when he cleared the prestigious Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination and joined the elite Indian Information Service (IIS-98 Batch). He served with distinction at the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Government of India, gaining rich experience in national-level communication and public affairs.
watch…..Punjabi University Welcomes Dr. Khokhar as PR Director
However, his heart always remained connected to his roots. In 2001, Dr. Khokhar returned to his alma mater, Punjabi University, as Assistant Public Relations Officer. Through consistent dedication and outstanding performance, he rose steadily — becoming Public Relations Officer in 2014 and also taking additional charge as In-Charge of the University Science Instrumentation Centre (USIC).
A lifelong learner, Dr. Khokhar continued his academic pursuit alongside his career. He earned a Master of Journalism and Mass Communication from Guru Jambheshwar University of Science & Technology, Hisar; an M.Phil. from Chaudhary Devi Lal University, Sirsa; and a Ph.D. from Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla.
With over 33 years of rich and diverse experience in print media, government service, and university administration, Dr. Khokhar stands as a shining example of perseverance and commitment.
Speaking on the appointment, Vice-Chancellor Dr. Jagdeep Singh said: “Institutions always require the leadership of capable and experienced officers to progress, and it is essential to have competent officers in key positions.”
Dr. Khokhar’s journey — from cycling through the streets of Patiala with bundles of newspapers at dawn to leading the Public Relations department of a leading university — is a powerful inspiration for students, youth, and professionals alike. It proves that no dream is too big when backed by dedication, hard work, and continuous learning.
In an era where quick success is often celebrated, Dr. Harminder Singh Khokhar’s story reminds everyone that true success is built step by step, through patience, passion, and unwavering commitment to one’s goals.
