Khurshid Qureshi | Onlykashmir.in
A simple yet graceful function was organised today by the Gandhi Global Family (GGF), Kashmir Chapter at a local hotel in Rajbagh, Srinagar, to commemorate the 96th Birth Anniversary of the renowned philanthropist, social reformer, and great Gandhian leader, Padma Vibhushan Dr. Nirmala Deshpande Ji.
The event was attended by GGF members, prominent social activists, and peace workers from across the Valley who gathered to pay rich tributes to the late leader and recall her selfless contribution to peace, communal harmony, and social justice.
The programme began with a welcome address by Mr. Noor-ul-Amin, General Secretary of GGF, Kashmir Chapter, who highlighted the life, mission, and vision of Dr. Nirmala Deshpande Ji. He emphasized her lifelong dedication to Gandhian ideals and her tireless efforts to promote unity, compassion, and human dignity across the nation. He noted that Nirmala Ji was not only a devoted follower of Mahatma Gandhi but also a true torchbearer of his message of peace, non-violence, and brotherhood.
Mr. G.M. Dar, Vice President of GGF, in his address, reflected on her inspiring journey from a freedom fighter and social worker to one of India’s most respected voices for peace and humanity. He recalled that Nirmala Ji spent over six decades walking on the path of service, travelling across India and beyond to spread the message of love, communal harmony, and Sarvodaya. Her deep compassion for the poor and marginalized, he said, continues to inspire countless individuals working for a just and peaceful society.
Other speakers, including several social activists and GGF members, shared their reflections on Nirmala Ji’s monumental role in bridging divides and fostering understanding among diverse communities. They collectively stressed the need to uphold her principles in today’s challenging times when peace and harmony are most needed.
Among the active participants were Haji Noor Mohammad Wani, Dr. Auyob Matto, Mohd Altaf Dar, Adv. Fasil Malik, Amjad Ali, Youns Shaikh, Bupinder Singh, Khurshid A. Qureshi, and Farzana Ji, along with several other members of the Gandhi Global Family and the social service fraternity who have been working tirelessly for humanitarian causes in Jammu and Kashmir.
In her concluding remarks, Dr. Mehjabeen Nabi, Vice President of Gandhi Global Family, delivered an inspiring speech on the life and legacy of Nirmala Deshpande Ji. She said that the best tribute to Nirmala Ji would be to carry forward her mission of spreading peace, unity, and compassion among all sections of society. Dr. Nabi urged the youth to dedicate themselves to peace, stability, and the upliftment of the underprivileged through selfless service and social responsibility.
The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all participants, guests, and organizers for their presence and contribution. The atmosphere throughout the event remained filled with reverence and inspiration.
