Nation’s Changemakers Felicitated at Bharat Gaurav Ratna Shri Samman in New Delhi
Dilip Guha, New Delhi
New Delhi witnessed a powerful celebration of purpose, perseverance, and public service as over 150 distinguished individuals from across India were honoured at the Bharat Gaurav Ratna Shri Samman ceremony, hosted by the Bharat Gaurav Ratna Shri Samman Council (BGRSSC) at “The Ashok” Hotel. Bringing together voices from social service, education, entrepreneurship, arts, and public life, the event stood as a tribute to those quietly yet consistently shaping a better society.
Organised with the vision of recognising excellence and inspiring leadership, BGRSSC continues to spotlight individuals whose work drives social, cultural, and national development. The ceremony, graced by Chief Guest Shri Sunil Bharala, Former Chairman and Minister of the Labour Welfare Council, Government of Uttar Pradesh, along with ambassadors and eminent dignitaries, reflected a shared commitment to honouring grassroots impact and transformative leadership.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr Tapan Kumar Rautary, Chairman, Bharat Gaurav Ratna Shri Samman Council, emphasised the organisation’s vision behind the initiative.
“At BGRSSC, our objective is to identify and honour individuals whose work embodies commitment, integrity, and service towards society. Through the Bharat Gaurav Ratna Shri Samman, we aim to build a platform that celebrates excellence and encourages a culture where contributions towards nation-building are recognised and valued.”
Highlighting the significance of the ceremony, Ms Kavita Bajaj, CEO, said:
“This event is a celebration of inspiring stories from across the country. Bringing together over 150 achievers on one platform reflects the incredible diversity of talent and dedication present in India. The ceremony not only honours their achievements but also creates a space where their journeys can inspire many others.”
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What made the gathering particularly compelling was the diversity of stories—each awardee representing not just personal success, but a larger mission of change. From global education leaders to grassroots social workers, from defence veterans to wellness innovators, the ceremony became a mosaic of modern India’s changemakers.
Among those honoured was Dr Dane Reeves, Chief Operating Officer of EducateMe Group Limited (UK), who was honoured with the Bharat Gaurav Ratna Shri Samman for his significant contributions to global education. A recognised education strategist with over 15 years of experience, Dr Reeves has been at the forefront of transformative initiatives in communicative English, study abroad programmes, and employability training.
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His work has played a pivotal role in bridging gaps in global education systems, enabling students and professionals to access better opportunities across borders. Through his leadership, he continues to drive impactful solutions that enhance learning outcomes and promote international academic collaboration.
Equally inspiring was Dr Fakeha Mazhar, an educationist and social worker, who received recognition for over a decade of dedicated service. Emphasising the transformative power of education, she reflected, “Education is the foundation of change—it shapes minds, builds values, and empowers individuals to stand for humanity.” Crediting her parents for providing equal opportunities, she described the honour as a motivation to continue working with integrity and purpose. She said, “I am especially thankful to my parents, who never discriminated between son and daughter, and gave me equal opportunities—just like my brothers—to spread my wings and fly through the power of education. This recognition motivates me to continue working with dedication, integrity, and purpose for the betterment of society.
I deeply believe in the quote “Some live in a dream world, some face reality, and then there are those who turn one into the other. So be a dreamer, face reality, and let your dreams come true,” she added.
From Assam, Md. Inamul Hoque’s journey stood as a testament to grassroots commitment. Associated with Navashakti NGO, he has been actively engaged in legal aid, welfare initiatives, and community outreach. His work—ranging from distributing essentials to facilitating access to legal and medical support—highlights the critical role of accessibility in social justice. “Serving the underprivileged is not just a responsibility but a moral duty,” he said, while outlining his vision to establish a shelter home for the homeless and orphans.
Adding a dimension of service and leadership, Wing Commander Beena Pandey was recognised for her contributions to women’s empowerment. After 14 years in the Indian Air Force, she transitioned into the corporate sector and entrepreneurship, working in data centre operations and security. Reflecting on her journey, she noted, “This recognition is not just mine—it represents the potential every woman holds to lead, break barriers, and contribute to nation-building.”
The ceremony also highlighted the growing importance of health and wellness advocacy. Sonam Aggarwal, a diet and nutrition coach, was acknowledged for her work in promoting practical and accessible nutrition, especially among women and children, through CSR initiatives. “Healthy habits start early, and awareness within families can create lifelong impact,” she said, underscoring her mission to empower individuals beyond conventional dieting. “I’ve guided many women through their post-pregnancy weight loss journeys, helping them heal, rebuild strength, and feel confident again, not just physically but emotionally too. For me, nutrition is not about dieting, it’s about empowering people to take charge of their health sustainably,” she added.
Innovation in wellness found representation through architect S. M. Devanii, who introduced magnetic footwear rooted in alternative therapy. His work reflects a rising interest in integrating traditional healing concepts with modern design to offer non-invasive health solutions. “We want people to experience wellness with every step,” he remarked, describing the initiative as a blend of science, tradition, and everyday usability.”
The ceremony also celebrated social contributors like Gopa Roy Dasgupta from Mumbai, honoured for her impactful NGO work, and Neelu Kumaar, who has been serving society through astrology, numerology, and Vastu practices since 2012, driven by a belief in purposeful living and positive intent.
As each awardee walked the stage to receive a memento, shawl, and certificate, the event went beyond recognition—it became a platform for stories that inspire action. In an era often dominated by headlines of challenge and change, the Bharat Gaurav Ratna Shri Samman served as a reminder that across India, individuals continue to lead with vision, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.
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