By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Honouring her efforts for displaying exceptional courage, nobility and strength in the face of adversity, the CNN-IBN & Reliance Foundation conferred the Real Heroes award on Bertha G Dkhar, Headmistress of Jyoti Sroat School for the visually impaired, at a glittering function held in Mumbai on Monday.
Ms Dkhar, who was awarded the Padmashri in 2010, was felicitated by none other than Master-Blaster Sachin Tendulkar.
The award celebrates the undying spirit of ordinary people who have done extraordinary services and have expanded the realm of humanity.
Sharing her rich experience with The Shillong Times here on Thursday, Ms Dkhar said, “That I received the award from Sachin Tendulkar made it all the more special. I had never dreamt that I would be sharing the same stage with Sachin Tendulkar.”
“I infact mentioned to him that I admire him a lot and he is such a humble person,” she added.
She was presented with a cheque of Rs 3.5 lakh after 30 per cent tax deduction.
Ms Dkhar stated that the amount which she has received would come in handy as her school was facing financial problems.
She was also full of praise for CNN-IBN & Reliance Foundation for coming forward and supporting charitable ventures.
Besides Tendulkar, the event was also attended by Nita Ambani, chairperson reliance Foundation, actor Aamir Khan, India’s melody queen Lata Mangeshkar and actress Hema Malini.
Altogether 25 persons from different parts of the country were conferred with the Real Heroes award.
Among other awardees from the North east includes Pabitra Rabha from Assam, for initiating a theatre group Dapon, which is the world’s only theatre group of 40 dwarves from across Assam.
Physical trainer RK Viswajit Singh from Manipur was also conferred the award for
selflessly attempting to reform the youth of the state who are victims of violence and drug abuse by teaching them body building and meditation.
Nita Ambani, while speaking at the function said, “Real Heroes continues to recognize the power of belief and conviction that drives the human spirit to bring about real change and positively impact the lives of others. The Real Heroes have proved their mettle by demonstrating deep commitment to be agents of change in their community. We salute the work of these Real Heroes which will emerge as an inspiration to millions in this country.”
Rajdeep Sardesai, Editor-in-Chief, CNN-IBN, IBN7 & IBN Lokmat, said, “At a time when we need them the most to transform the society we live in, we have been blessed by these Real Heroes who have taken the initiative to provide hope and strength to millions with their stories that truly inspire change. It is a privilege beyond words to honour these Real Heroes.”