Onlykashmir.in News Desk
In a graceful and dignified ceremony reflecting the spirit of service, compassion and excellence, The Art of Living Foundation organized a prestigious felicitation function at Tagore Hall, Srinagar, as part of the worldwide celebrations marking the birth anniversary of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. The global celebrations will culminate on May 13, 2026, the 70th birthday of Gurudev, with a unifying theme of honoring “Unsung Everyday Heroes” from diverse walks of life who have contributed silently yet significantly to society.
The Srinagar event held under the patronage of noted philanthropist Roma Wani, brought together eminent personalities, intellectuals and social contributors in a vibrant atmosphere of recognition and gratitude. The initiative reflects the core philosophy of The Art of Living Foundation, which emphasizes inner peace, human values and selfless service as essential pillars for building a harmonious and progressive society.
From the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, three distinguished individuals were nominated through a rigorous and credible jury process. These included Nayeema Mustafa for Sports Excellence, Vaseem Shah for Business and Philanthropy and Kanwal Peshin for Business and Philanthropy. Of these, Smt. Nayeema Mustafa and Shri Waseem Shah were felicitated at the Srinagar event, while Kanwal Peshin was honored at a parallel prestigious event in Jammu, ensuring regional inclusivity and recognition.
The event was graced by Syed Shabir Ahmad, Joint Director, School Education Kashmir as Chief Guest while Dilafroz Qazi, Vice Chairperson SSM Polytechnic College,Parihaspora attended as Guest of Honour. Both dignitaries appreciated the initiative and emphasized the importance of acknowledging grassroots contributors who shape society through dedication and integrity.
In her welcome address, Madam Roma Wani highlighted the vision behind the event, stating that recognizing unsung heroes not only uplifts individuals but also inspires collective responsibility and societal transformation. She elaborated on how the teachings of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar have consistently guided millions worldwide towards stress-free living, ethical leadership and community service.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Guest Syed Shabir Ahmad reflected on contemporary societal and educational challenges, underlining the need for value-based education and holistic development. He appreciated The Art of Living Foundation for its continued efforts in promoting mental well-being, youth empowerment and social cohesion. Guest speakers including Avinash Tikoo, coordinator AOL, Rameez Makhdoomi and Ahmad Ali Khan elaborated on the global impact of the Foundation, noting its contributions in disaster relief and human development initiatives across continents.
The event witnessed the presence of several prominent personalities including Javeed Kakroo, Apex -Member, Mushtaq Ali Ahmad Khan (Theatre Artist & Film Producer), Mushtaq Bala (Chief Editor, Kashmir Pen), Bilal Bashir Bhat (Chief Editor, Daily Srinagar-e-Jang), Dr. M. Ashraf Wani (Educationist & Social Worker), Rakesh Bhat (Co-Chairman, Federation of Chamber of Commerce), Ms. Anamika Abrol, Ms. Rachna Abrol (AoL Jammu Chapter) among others. Their participation reflected a shared commitment to the ideals of service, unity and cultural enrichment.
Renowned writer and journalist Khurshid A Qureshi conducted the proceedings with remarkable eloquence and coordination, ensuring a seamless flow of the function. The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks presented by Javeed Kakroo, who acknowledged the efforts of all dignitaries and especially appreciated the dedicated leadership of Madam Roma Wani in successfully organizing the event.
The event stood as a testament to the enduring message of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, that a stress-free mind and a violence-free society are achievable through collective awareness, compassion and committed action. The Art of Living reaffirmed its commitment to continue recognising such unsung heroes and inspiring society to embrace the values of service, compassion and collective responsibility.
