यी यी करुम स्यु़ अर्त्सुन
यी रसिनी विचौरुम थी मंतर
यिहय लगमो धहस पर्त्सुन
स्यु़ परसिवुन तंत्हर
- Lal Vakh, Lalleshwari (1320-1392)
Whatever work I did became the worship of the Lord,
Whatever word I uttered transformed into a sacred mantra,
Whatever my body endured became the sadhana of Saiva Tantra,
Illuminating my path to the eternal Parmasiva.
KOA Through the Years
The Kashmiri Overseas Association (KOA) was founded in the 1980s, originating from gatherings of Kashmiri Pandit families in the Washington, D.C. and Maryland areas. Recognizing the need to build a community structure for mutual preservation and growth, these families expanded the organization, which eventually became a national platform with regional chapters, documented bylaws, and formal systems. On June 1, 1982, KOA was incorporated in the State of Maryland, and by September 27, 1983, it received 501(c)(3) nonprofit status under the IRS. As the organization grew, KOA’s mission and vision were clearly defined, reinforcing its commitment to preserving and promoting Kashmiri Pandit heritage, culture, and traditions worldwide.
In the 1990s, during the tragic exodus of Kashmiri Pandits, KOA emerged as a crucial support network for displaced families and vulnerable individuals. As thousands of Pandits were forced to flee their homeland, KOA became instrumental in raising awareness about the community's struggles. The organization provided financial aid, resources, and advocacy while working tirelessly to ensure the survival of Kashmiri pandit traditions and culture amidst the displacement. This period marked a defining chapter in KOA’s history, cementing its role as a key advocate for the Kashmiri Pandit community and the preservation of its cultural legacy.
Today, KOA remains dedicated to preserving and advancing Kashmiri Pandit heritage through a blend of cultural initiatives and humanitarian efforts. As a global network, it unites the community, supports its needs, and protects our traditions and historical landmarks. Through its sustained initiatives, KOA fosters a sense of unity and ensures the enduring legacy of Kashmiri Pandit culture for generations to come.
Our Mission
The KOA's mission is to promote Kashmiri Pandit ethnic and socio-cultural heritage (language, history, art, etc), celebrate religious festivals of importance to Kashmiri Pandits; provide financial assistance to needy and deserving Kashmiri Pandit individuals, educational institutions, places of worship and shrines, both in the US and in India; and preserve historical monuments and sites of religious and cultural significance in Kashmir, India.
Our Vision
The KOA shall serve as the premier Kashmiri Pandit institution with a fundamental purpose that lies in promoting Kashmiri Pandit heritage and its way of living, Kashmiri Brahmanism and its philosophies; and be a center of social learning that caters to the spiritual, cultural, physical, humanitarian and educational needs of the community.
Join the KOA Family &
Stay Connected to Your Kashmiri Roots!
Become a part of the KOA family—a place where Kashmiri heritage feels right at home. Connect with a supportive community, celebrate our rich traditions, and contribute to initiatives that keep our culture alive and thriving. Together, we create a sense of belonging, no matter where we are!
KOA Community: A Visual guide to our 10 zones
