KOA Awards 2026

Celebrating Excellence. Honoring Service. Inspiring Future Generations. Recognizing outstanding individuals and organizations whose contributions have enriched the Kashmiri Pandit comm

KOA Awards 2026Celebrating Excellence. Honoring Service. Inspiring Future Generations.

Recognizing outstanding individuals and organizations whose contributions have enriched the Kashmiri Pandit community, preserved our heritage, and inspired excellence across the world.National KOA Camp 2026 | Princeton, New Jersey

Message from the President

The KOA Awards celebrate individuals and organizations whose dedication, leadership, creativity, and selfless service have strengthened our community and preserved our heritage. These awards are especially meaningful because they are based on nominations from the community, for the community, recognizing those whose contributions have made a lasting impact.

Each honoree represents the values that define us—service, scholarship, cultural preservation, innovation, and excellence. We are proud to recognize these remarkable individuals and organizations whose work continues to inspire Kashmiri Pandits around the world.

Uphaar Kotru

President

Kashmiri Overseas Association

🏆 KOA Lifetime Achievement Award 2026

Honoring Padma Shri Dr. Kashi Nath Pandita

It is with immense pride and profound respect that the Kashmiri Overseas Association (KOA) presents the KOA Lifetime Achievement Award to Padma Shri Dr. Kashi Nath Pandita in recognition of his extraordinary lifetime of scholarship, cultural preservation, and unwavering service to the Kashmiri Pandit community.

For decades, Dr. Pandita has dedicated his life to preserving the literary, historical, and cultural heritage of Kashmir. Through his writings, translations, research, teaching, and public service, he has ensured that the history, language, and traditions of our community continue to educate, inspire, and guide generations.

Following the exodus of the Kashmiri Pandit community, Dr. Pandita emerged as one of its most respected scholarly voices and advocates. His tireless efforts to document our history and preserve our collective memory have played an invaluable role in safeguarding the identity, resilience, and legacy of our community.

Dr. Pandita's life's work is more than an extraordinary academic achievement—it is a priceless gift to our community. His contributions have strengthened our connection to our roots and inspired countless individuals to cherish and preserve our rich heritage.

On behalf of the global Kashmiri Pandit community, KOA extends its heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to Padma Shri Dr. Kashi Nath Pandita. Your remarkable legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Congratulations on this well-deserved honor! 

🏆 KOA Legacy Recognition Award 2026

Honoring Late Dr. Shashi Shekhar Toshkhani

The Kashmiri Overseas Association (KOA) is honored to posthumously present the KOA Legacy Recognition Award to Late Dr. Shashi Shekhar Toshkhani in recognition of his extraordinary and enduring contributions to Kashmiri language, literature, scholarship, and cultural heritage.

Dr. Toshkhani was a towering intellectual—a distinguished poet, linguist, writer, scholar, and thinker whose remarkable depth of knowledge earned him the admiration of all who knew him. His lifelong dedication to preserving and interpreting Kashmir's rich literary and cultural traditions established him as one of the foremost scholars of his generation.

A passionate student of both Kashmiri and world literature, Dr. Toshkhani combined profound scholarship with humility, warmth, and an insatiable curiosity. His writings reflected not only intellectual rigor but also a deep love for Kashmir's language, history, and cultural identity.

Among his many scholarly contributions, his work on the philosophy and poetry of Lal Ded (Lalleshwari) stands out for its exceptional depth and insight. Through meticulous research and thoughtful interpretation, he restored the richness and complexity of Kashmir's spiritual and literary traditions, ensuring they would continue to educate and inspire future generations.

Dr. Toshkhani's legacy extends far beyond his published works. He leaves behind an enduring body of scholarship that continues to guide researchers, enrich readers, and strengthen the cultural foundations of the Kashmiri Pandit community.

The Kashmiri Overseas Association proudly honors Late Dr. Shashi Shekhar Toshkhani for a lifetime devoted to preserving Kashmir's intellectual and cultural heritage. His wisdom, scholarship, and legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

With deepest respect and gratitude, KOA remembers and celebrates an extraordinary scholar whose contributions will forever remain a cherished part of our collective heritage.

🏆 KOA Legacy Recognition Award 2026

Honoring Late Maharaj Krishen Raina

The Kashmiri Overseas Association (KOA) is proud to posthumously present the KOA Legacy Recognition Award to Late Maharaj Krishen Raina, fondly known as Master Ji, in recognition of his lifelong dedication to the Kashmiri language and his enduring legacy of preserving and passing on its rich literary traditions.

Though trained as a civil engineer, Master Ji devoted the last three decades of his life to the preservation, promotion, and teaching of the Kashmiri language. Driven by an unwavering commitment to ensuring that future generations remained connected to their roots, he founded Project Zaan in Mumbai in the late 1990s—a pioneering initiative dedicated to safeguarding and promoting Kashmiri language and culture.

As an accomplished editor, writer, and educator, Master Ji played a vital role in enriching Kashmiri literature. He served as the editor of respected Kashmiri Pandit publications, including Milchar, Aalav, and Praagaash, providing a platform for literary expression and cultural dialogue.

Recognizing the importance of preserving literary treasures in the digital age, Master Ji undertook the monumental task of translating and transliterating numerous Kashmiri classics into the Devanagari-Kashmiri script. His invaluable work includes Lal Vaakhs, Shruks, Kashmiri Proverbs, Folk Tales, Folk Songs, Riddles, Hatim's Tales, Kashmiri Talmih, Sarvanand Koul Premi's Koshur Ramayan, the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, and Rusi Padshah Katha. His own writings, including heartfelt short stories such as Naseehath and Khander Saal, further enriched Kashmiri literature.

Above all, Master Ji was a beloved teacher. Through his Kashmiri language classes, he inspired and educated hundreds of students, instilling in them a love for their mother tongue and cultural heritage. His website, mkraina.com, continues to serve as a treasured repository of Kashmiri language resources, ensuring that his work remains accessible to learners and scholars around the world.

The Kashmiri Overseas Association proudly honors Late Maharaj Krishen Raina for his extraordinary vision, dedication, and lifelong service to our language and culture. While his passing leaves an irreplaceable void, his legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched, the knowledge he preserved, and the generations he inspired.

May we honor his memory by carrying forward his mission—to preserve, nurture, and celebrate the Kashmiri language and the rich cultural heritage it represents.

KOA Distinguished Service Award

Honoring Satya Bhushan Kaul

In recognition of his dedicated service to the Kashmiri Pandit community and his unwavering commitment to preserving our cultural heritage and traditions. Through his vision, expertise, and tireless efforts, he was instrumental in championing the development of the U.S. timezone-based Jantari and KOA Calendar for the Kashmiri Pandit community in North America. This landmark initiative has provided families across the continent with an accurate and meaningful cultural and religious calendar, ensuring that our traditions continue to be observed and passed on to future generations. His contributions have left a lasting and meaningful impact on our community.

KOA Honoree 2026

Honoring Vinayak Razdan

The Kashmiri Overseas Association (KOA) is proud to recognize Vinayak Razdan as a KOA Honoree for his outstanding contributions to preserving and sharing Kashmir's cultural memory through digital storytelling, music, and filmmaking.

As the producer of the critically acclaimed Kashmiri-language feature film Batt Koch (The Lost Lane) (2025), Vinayak has brought the stories, struggles, and resilience of the Kashmiri Pandit community to audiences around the world. Through powerful storytelling, the film explores themes of displacement, identity, memory, and the enduring hope of return, resonating deeply with communities across generations.

Driven by a vision to revive Kashmiri cinema, Vinayak founded SearchKashmir, an initiative dedicated to creating authentic stories from Kashmir and preserving its rich cultural heritage through film. Under his leadership, Batt Koch has earned international recognition, including screenings at prestigious film festivals such as the New York Indian Film Festival, showcasing the beauty and depth of Kashmiri storytelling on the global stage.

Beyond filmmaking, Vinayak has been a passionate advocate for the revival of the Kashmiri language in cinema. His efforts, alongside fellow community leaders, contributed to the restoration of Kashmiri as a recognized language by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC)—an important milestone that has opened new opportunities for future generations of Kashmiri filmmakers.

Through his vision, creativity, and unwavering commitment to cultural preservation, Vinayak Razdan continues to ensure that the voices, history, and heritage of the Kashmiri Pandit community are preserved, celebrated, and shared with the world.

Congratulations, Vinayak Razdan, on this well-deserved recognition. KOA proudly celebrates your remarkable contributions to our community and its enduring legacy.

Honoring Samay Raina

The Kashmiri Overseas Association proudly honors Samay Raina for using his platform to bring greater awareness to the lived experiences and collective memory of the Kashmiri Pandit community. Through his stand-up performances, interviews, and personal storytelling, he has openly shared the impact of displacement, loss of identity, and the intergenerational trauma associated with the Kashmiri Pandit Exodus. By bringing deeply personal experiences into mainstream conversations, he has helped introduce many younger audiences to an important chapter of history and encouraged meaningful dialogue around memory, resilience, and cultural identity.

Born in Jammu into a Kashmiri Pandit family, Samay rose to national prominence after becoming the co-winner of Comicstaan Season 2 (2019). His sharp wit, quick improvisation, and distinctive comedic style quickly established him as one of India's most celebrated entertainers.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Samay pioneered a unique blend of comedy and live chess streaming, introducing the game to a new generation through engaging collaborations with renowned chess grandmasters and celebrities. His innovative approach not only entertained millions but also played a significant role in making chess more accessible and popular among young audiences.

In 2024, Samay created and hosted the widely acclaimed YouTube comedy talent show India's Got Latent, which became one of India's most talked-about digital entertainment platforms. With its fresh format, spontaneous humor, and celebration of emerging talent, the show redefined long-form comedy content and captivated audiences around the world.

Today, Samay Raina stands as one of the leading voices in modern Indian comedy. Through his fearless creativity, authentic storytelling, and ability to connect with audiences across platforms, he continues to inspire a new generation of creators while elevating Indian digital entertainment on the global stage.

The Kashmiri Overseas Association proudly congratulates Samay Raina on this well-deserved recognition. Your achievements continue to inspire young minds and bring immense pride to the Kashmiri Pandit community worldwide.

Honoring Lokesh Dhar

The Kashmiri Overseas Association (KOA) is proud to recognize Lokesh Dhar as a KOA Honoree in recognition of his outstanding contributions to Indian cinema and for strengthening the presence of Kashmiri voices in the creative arts.

An accomplished film producer and media executive, Lokesh Dhar has played a pivotal role in shaping contemporary Indian cinema through compelling storytelling, creative excellence, and visionary leadership. With over two decades of experience in film production, marketing, and distribution, he has worked with some of India's leading studios before co-founding B62 Studios alongside his brother, acclaimed filmmaker Aditya Dhar. Today, B62 Studios is recognized for producing impactful, high-quality, content-driven films that resonate with audiences across the world.

As a producer, Lokesh is best known for acclaimed films such as Article 370 (2024) and Dhurandhar (2025), productions that have earned both critical appreciation and commercial success. His work reflects a commitment to meaningful storytelling, cinematic excellence, and narratives that leave a lasting impact.

Beyond his achievements as a producer, Lokesh has successfully bridged creativity with business, helping shape the evolution of India's film industry through strategic leadership and innovation. His dedication to nurturing original stories and supporting world-class filmmaking has established him as one of the industry's most respected producers.

Through his remarkable contributions, Lokesh Dhar continues to elevate Indian cinema while inspiring aspiring filmmakers and proudly representing the creativity, resilience, and talent of the Kashmiri community on the global stage.

The Kashmiri Overseas Association extends its heartfelt congratulations to Lokesh Dhar on this well-deserved recognition. Your achievements continue to inspire our community and showcase the power of storytelling to connect people across cultures and generations.

Honoring Aditya Dhar

The Kashmiri Overseas Association (KOA) is proud to recognize Aditya Dhar as a KOA Honoree in recognition of his visionary contributions to Indian cinema and for bringing pride and global visibility to Kashmiri voices through the art of storytelling.

An acclaimed filmmaker, screenwriter, producer, and lyricist, Aditya Dhar has emerged as one of the most influential voices in contemporary Indian cinema. Born into a Kashmiri Pandit family, he has earned widespread recognition for creating films that combine compelling narratives, cinematic excellence, and emotional depth.

Aditya made his directorial debut with the blockbuster Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019), inspired by the Indian Army's surgical strikes. The film became one of the year's biggest successes, earning him the prestigious National Film Award for Best Director and establishing him as one of India's leading filmmakers. Its iconic dialogue, "How's the Josh?", became a cultural phenomenon and a symbol of national pride.

Before stepping behind the camera as a director, Aditya built a successful career as a lyricist and screenwriter, contributing songs, dialogues, and screenplays to several acclaimed Hindi films. His versatility and passion for storytelling laid the foundation for a remarkable filmmaking journey.

As the co-founder of B62 Studios, Aditya continues to champion bold, meaningful, and high-quality cinema. Through acclaimed productions such as Article 370 (2024) and other ambitious projects, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of storytelling while elevating Indian cinema on the global stage.

With his creative vision, innovative storytelling, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Aditya Dhar continues to inspire aspiring filmmakers and audiences alike. His work reflects the power of cinema to preserve identity, celebrate resilience, and tell stories that resonate across cultures and generations.

The Kashmiri Overseas Association extends its heartfelt congratulations to Aditya Dhar on this well-deserved recognition. Your remarkable achievements continue to inspire our community and demonstrate the transformative power of storytelling in bringing Kashmiri voices to the world.

Honoring Dr. Sohan Lal Koul

The Kashmiri Overseas Association (KOA) is proud to recognize Dr. Sohan Lal Koul as a KOA Honoree in recognition of his distinguished contributions to Kashmiri literature, theatre, and cultural expression.

A celebrated novelist, playwright, critic, and scholar, Dr. Koul has devoted his life to enriching and preserving the Kashmiri language through his literary works, theatrical productions, and cultural advocacy. Over several decades, he has authored more than 20 books in Kashmiri and Urdu, earning widespread acclaim as one of the foremost literary voices of contemporary Kashmir.

A prolific playwright and novelist, Dr. Koul has written over two dozen plays and twelve acclaimed novels, exploring themes of identity, human relationships, social transformation, and the lived experiences of Kashmir. His celebrated works—including Panien Panien Gunah, Ded, Yotam Sarie Paeth Gow, Waehshi Kaeth, Naad, and Ginden Tamashe—have made a lasting impact on Kashmiri literature and theatre. Through his translations of internationally renowned plays into Kashmiri, he has further enriched the region's dramatic tradition and expanded its literary horizons.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to Indian theatre, Dr. Koul was honored with the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, India's highest national recognition in the performing arts. Throughout his distinguished career, he has also served in public broadcasting and cultural institutions, playing a vital role in promoting the Kashmiri language, literature, and performing arts.

Through his scholarship, creativity, and unwavering commitment to cultural preservation, Dr. Sohan Lal Koul has inspired generations of writers, artists, and readers. His work continues to strengthen the literary heritage of Kashmir and ensures that its rich traditions remain vibrant for generations to come.

The Kashmiri Overseas Association extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Sohan Lal Koul on this well-deserved recognition. Your lifelong dedication to literature, theatre, and the Kashmiri language has left an enduring legacy that will continue to educate, inspire, and enrich our community for years to come.

Honoring Padma Shri Shri Brij Lal Bhat

The Kashmiri Overseas Association (KOA) is proud to recognize Padma Shri Shri Brij Lal Bhat as a KOA Honoree in recognition of his selfless service, visionary leadership, and enduring contributions to the Kashmiri Pandit community and society at large.

A distinguished social worker, horticulture expert, and community leader, Shri Brij Lal Bhat has dedicated his life to public service, cultural preservation, and nation-building. His remarkable contributions were recognized with the prestigious Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honors, in 2026 for his outstanding work in the field of Social Work.

An accomplished horticulturist with advanced training in Marketing and Refrigeration from Washington State University, USA, Shri Bhat enjoyed a distinguished career in the Jammu & Kashmir Horticulture Department. He held several key leadership positions, including Director of Horticulture Planning & Marketing, Chief Executive Officer of World Bank-assisted horticulture projects, and Project Director of Agri Export Zones. Through his vision and leadership, he played a transformative role in modernizing Kashmir's horticulture sector by introducing innovative packaging, strengthening cold-chain infrastructure, expanding fruit markets, and promoting the export of Kashmiri produce to international markets.

Following his retirement from government service, Shri Bhat devoted himself wholeheartedly to social welfare and cultural revival. Through his leadership at the Vivekananda Kendra Nagdandi Ashram in Anantnag, he has tirelessly worked to promote education, youth empowerment, environmental stewardship, spiritual values, and community development. His unwavering efforts to preserve Kashmir's rich cultural heritage, foster social harmony, and advocate for the dignity and well-being of displaced Kashmiri Pandits have earned him the admiration and respect of people across generations.

Respected for his humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to service, Shri Brij Lal Bhat exemplifies the values of leadership, integrity, and selfless dedication. His life's work continues to inspire hope, strengthen communities, and leave a lasting impact on the social and cultural fabric of Jammu & Kashmir.

The Kashmiri Overseas Association extends its heartfelt congratulations to Padma Shri Shri Brij Lal Bhat on this well-deserved recognition. Your extraordinary journey of service and leadership continues to inspire our community and reminds us of the enduring power of compassion, commitment, and giving back.

KOA Team Excellence Award 2026

Honoring Kheer Bhawani USA

The Kashmiri Overseas Association (KOA) is proud to present the KOA Team Excellence Award to Kheer Bhawani USA in recognition of its historic vision, collective dedication, and unwavering commitment to establishing a permanent spiritual and cultural home for Kashmiri Pandits in the United States.

The Kheer Bhawani USA Team is a remarkable group of volunteers, community leaders, professionals, and devotees united by a shared mission to preserve the spiritual, cultural, and social heritage of the Kashmiri Pandit community. Guided by the blessings of Mata Kheer Bhawani, the team is leading the development of the Kheer Bhawani Kashmir Cultural Center in Livermore, California—a landmark initiative that will serve as a temple, cultural center, and community gathering place for generations to come.

What began as a shared dream has grown into a community-wide movement fueled by faith, generosity, and countless hours of selfless volunteer service. Through collaboration with donors, volunteers, and organizations across North America, the Kheer Bhawani USA Team has brought the community together around a common vision of preserving its spiritual traditions and cultural identity.

More than a place of worship, the Kheer Bhawani Kashmir Cultural Center will serve as a lasting symbol of unity, resilience, and heritage—where future generations can connect with their roots, celebrate their traditions, learn the Kashmiri language and culture, and strengthen the bonds of the global Kashmiri Pandit community.

The Kashmiri Overseas Association extends its heartfelt congratulations to the entire Kheer Bhawani USA Team. Your vision, leadership, and spirit of seva (selfless service) are creating a lasting legacy that will inspire and serve generations to come.

Honoring the KOA Heritage Preservation Team

Heartiest congratulations to the KOA Heritage Preservation Team on receiving the KOA Team Excellence Award 2026 in recognition of your outstanding teamwork, unwavering dedication, and remarkable contributions to preserving, promoting, and passing on the rich heritage of the Kashmiri Pandit community.

Under the leadership of Dileep Tiku, the KOA Heritage Preservation Program has become a cornerstone of KOA's mission, bringing together passionate volunteers committed to safeguarding our cultural legacy through four key pillars: Language Heritage, Spiritual Heritage, Literature Heritage, and Sacred Sites Preservation in Kashmir.

Over the past year, the team has made significant contributions by expanding Kashur Hechav language classes, introducing both foundational and advanced programs in Kashmir Shaivism, organizing engaging conversations with renowned Kashmiri writers and scholars, advancing the Kashur Docuseries and Devanagari standardization initiatives, and supporting efforts to preserve the sacred temples and heritage sites of Kashmir. Through these initiatives, the team is ensuring that our language, traditions, history, and spiritual heritage are preserved and shared with future generations while inspiring greater community participation.

This remarkable work has been made possible through the dedication of the core leadership team:

• Dileep Tiku – Program Director

• Vijay Dhar

• Manoj Kaul

• Vikram Khosa

• Ashwani Kaul

• Pamposh Zutshi

• Rashmi Kilam Khosa

• Anjana Kaul

  
  

Their efforts are further strengthened by the many dedicated volunteers who contribute across each heritage pillar. While too numerous to name individually, their passion, commitment, and selfless service have been instrumental to the program's success.

Congratulations to the entire KOA Heritage Preservation Team! Thank you for your vision, leadership, and tireless efforts in protecting our heritage and ensuring that the rich legacy of the Kashmiri Pandit community continues to educate, inspire, and unite generations to come.

KOA Partner Recognition Award 2026

Sharika Foundation Charitable Trust

The Kashmiri Overseas Association (KOA) is proud to present the KOA Partner Recognition Award to Sharika Foundation Charitable Trust (SFCT) in recognition of its outstanding partnership and meaningful contributions to education, humanitarian service, cultural preservation, and the empowerment of the Kashmiri Pandit community.

As the official implementation partner of KOA in India, Sharika Foundation Charitable Trust has played a vital role in transforming the generosity of the global Kashmiri diaspora into meaningful action on the ground. As a registered charitable trust with 80G tax-exempt status, SFCT works closely with KOA to ensure that charitable initiatives are implemented with transparency, accountability, and lasting impact.

Together, KOA and SFCT have built a strong partnership dedicated to serving the community through a wide range of humanitarian, educational, and cultural initiatives. Their collaborative efforts include the Sponsor-A-Child Program, educational scholarships, assistance for underprivileged students, medical aid, disaster relief, and projects that preserve the heritage, traditions, and well-being of the Kashmiri Pandit community.

While KOA mobilizes the support and generosity of the global diaspora, SFCT provides the critical on-the-ground leadership, coordinating programs, verifying beneficiaries, and ensuring that every initiative reaches those who need it most. This trusted partnership has enabled both organizations to create meaningful opportunities, uplift lives, and strengthen communities across India.

Together, KOA and SFCT exemplify the power of collaboration, united by a shared commitment to service, education, cultural preservation, and community empowerment. Their partnership continues to make a lasting difference while strengthening the connection between the global Kashmiri community and its roots.

The Kashmiri Overseas Association extends its heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to the entire Sharika Foundation Charitable Trust team. Thank you for your unwavering partnership, dedicated service, and commitment to building a stronger future for our community.

KOA Youth Excellence Award 2026

Honoring Arushi Kotru

The Kashmiri Overseas Association (KOA) is proud to present the KOA Youth Excellence Award to Arushi Kotru in recognition of her exemplary youth leadership, unwavering dedication to cultural preservation, and outstanding commitment to the mission and values of KOA.

Through her passion, initiative, and leadership, Arushi has inspired fellow youth to engage with their heritage, embrace their cultural identity, and actively participate in strengthening the Kashmiri Pandit community. Her dedication to preserving our traditions while encouraging the next generation to stay connected to their roots reflects the very spirit of KOA.

Arushi's enthusiasm, commitment to service, and willingness to lead by example have made a meaningful impact on the community. She represents a new generation of leaders who are helping ensure that the rich heritage, language, and traditions of Kashmiri Pandits continue to thrive for years to come.

The Kashmiri Overseas Association proudly congratulates Arushi Kotru on this well-deserved recognition. Your leadership, dedication, and passion for our community inspire young people everywhere to preserve our heritage and carry our legacy forward.

KOA Chapter Excellence Award 2026

Honoring Nitesh Bhat

The Kashmiri Overseas Association (KOA) is proud to present the KOA Chapter Excellence Award to Nitesh Bhat in recognition of his exceptional leadership, dedicated service, and unwavering commitment to the KOA Chicago Chapter and the continued growth of the KOA community.

Through his vision, enthusiasm, and tireless efforts, Nitesh has played a pivotal role in strengthening the Chicago Chapter by fostering community engagement, organizing meaningful programs, and creating opportunities for members to connect, celebrate, and preserve their shared heritage. His leadership has helped build a vibrant and welcoming chapter that reflects the values and mission of KOA.

Nitesh's commitment to volunteerism, collaboration, and community building has inspired others to become actively involved, contributing to the continued growth and success of KOA. His dedication exemplifies the spirit of service and leadership that strengthens our organization and brings our community closer together.

The Kashmiri Overseas Association extends its heartfelt congratulations to Nitesh Bhat on this well-deserved recognition. Thank you for your outstanding leadership, your commitment to the Chicago Chapter, and your continued efforts to strengthen and inspire the KOA community.

KOA Appreciation Award 2026

Honoring Prerna Srivastava-Tikku

The Kashmiri Overseas Association (KOA) is proud to present the KOA Appreciation Award to Prerna Srivastava-Tikku in heartfelt recognition of her unwavering commitment, inspiring leadership, and exceptional contributions to the success of the National KOA Camp 2026 in Princeton, New Jersey.

Prerna's dedication, enthusiasm, and tireless efforts played an instrumental role in making the National KOA Camp a memorable and meaningful experience for attendees. Her willingness to serve, attention to detail, collaborative spirit, and commitment to excellence exemplify the true essence of volunteer leadership.

Through her passion for community service and her ability to bring people together, Prerna has demonstrated the values that define KOA—service, teamwork, and a deep commitment to preserving and strengthening the bonds of the Kashmiri Pandit community.

The Kashmiri Overseas Association extends its sincere gratitude and heartfelt congratulations to Prerna Srivastava-Tikku. Thank you for your outstanding service, your leadership, and the positive impact you have made on our community. Your dedication is truly appreciated and continues to inspire us all.