In a resplendent celebration of excellence, the Sharda Cultural Program unfolded its mesmerizing tapestry at Alpa Bachat Bhawan on January 13, 2024. Meticulously curated by the Kashmiri Hindu Sabha, Pune, the event recognized and celebrated the exceptional contributions of individuals who have left an indelible mark in the fields of arts, culture, and community service.
Distinguished guests, including Chief Guest Shri K. K Siddha (Relief Commissioner, J&K), Guest of Honour Shidhrath Kak (renowned host of “Surabhi” fame and eminent filmmaker), and Shri Deepak Bagati (President, Bajaj Finance), graced the occasion. The felicitation ceremony, led by Mr. R.P Razdan (President, KHS Pune), Mr. Rohit Bhat (General Secretary, KHS Pune), and Secretary Ravi Kachroo (Panun Kashmir Lucknow), Dr. Renu Singh (President, We care Foundation) celebrated the exceptional accomplishments.
Lifetime Achievement Award: Padma Shri Pran Kishore Kaul
The event began with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award presentation to the venerable Padma Shri Pran Kishore Kaul. Born on January 23, 1926, Kaul is a luminary in theatre, literature, and cinema. His impact transcends literary boundaries, and as a pioneer in Kashmiri cinema, he directed the inaugural feature film in the Kashmiri language, “Mainzraat.” Kaul’s diverse contributions include opera, shadow plays, musicals, novels, films, radio plays, and documentaries. The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented by Gen Secretary Rohit Ravi Bhat and President R. P. Razdan on behalf of the Kashmiri Hindu Sabha Pune.
Momento Presented to Shri Siddharth Kak
Renowned documentary maker and television producer Shri Siddharth Kak, the Guest of Honour at the Shardha Cultural Program, received a memento from KHS Pune. In sincere appreciation for his enriching participation, Gen Secretary Rohit Ravi Bhat and President R. P. Razdan presented the memento to acknowledge Kak’s commendable contributions to the realms of art and culture.
Momento Presented to Chief Guest Kuldeep Krishan Sidha
KHS Pune recognized Kuldeep Krishan Sidha as a messiah for the refugee Kashmiri Pandit community. His exemplary dedication and unwavering commitment were acknowledged with a memento. Sidha’s role in championing digitization and fostering positive change for the Kashmiri Pandit community was lauded by Gen Secretary Rohit Ravi Bhat and President R. P. Razdan.
Posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award: Prithvi Nath Kaul Bujoo
A posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award was conferred on Prithvi Nath Kaul Bujoo, fondly known as Papaji. His remarkable achievements in business, commitment to spirituality, and unwavering support for the Kashmiri community in Pune were celebrated. Gen Secretary Rohit Ravi Bhat and President R. P. Razdan acknowledged Papaji’s legacy of service, leadership, and selfless commitment.
Recognition for Padma Shri Pran Kishore Kaul
The program embarked with another recognition for Padma Shri Pran Kishore Kaul, emphasizing his exceptional accomplishments and immeasurable impact on the Kashmiri language, culture, and ethos. The Lifetime Achievement Award served as a token of gratitude, presented by Gen Secretary Rohit Ravi Bhat and President R. P. Razdan.
Other than these awardees, this cultural extravaganza spotlighted the remarkable achievements of 17 outstanding women who have left an indelible mark in their respective fields.
The audience was captivated by the rhythmic allure of live performances featuring Folk Fusion virtuoso and Electric POP luminary, ABHA HANJURA. Adding historical resonance, the Hindi play “EK AUR BIRBAL,” expertly directed by Rohit Bhat from Vomedh & TRN fame, provided illuminating insights into the profound history of Kashmiri Pandits.
The Kashmiri Hindu Sabha Pune expresses heartfelt gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and volunteers who contributed to the success of this momentous event, reaffirming the commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Kashmiri community.