Sheikha Sheikha Ali Al-Jaber Al-Sabah has been awarded the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honors, in recognition of her significant contributions to promoting yoga and its mental and physical health benefits throughout Kuwait, the Gulf region, and the wider Arab world. The award was presented by Indian President Droupadi Murmu during an official ceremony at the Presidential Palace.
This prestigious honor makes Sheikha Sheikha the first Kuwaiti citizen to receive the Padma Shri. In a statement to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), she expressed deep pride in the recognition, emphasizing how her passion for yoga has not only improved lives but also fostered greater cultural understanding between Kuwait and India.
Kuwait’s Ambassador to India, Meshal Mustafa Al-Shamali, also praised the achievement, noting that it reflects the strong and diverse bilateral relations between the two nations. He highlighted Sheikha Sheikha’s work as a powerful example of cultural diplomacy through wellness and health initiatives.
The Indian government announced the award on Republic Day, January 26, as part of a larger celebration recognizing exceptional individuals in various fields, including science, medicine, literature, and social service. Sheikha Sheikha is the founder of the Atma Yoga Institute, which has played a key role in spreading yoga throughout the region.
Yoga, an ancient Indian practice combining physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation, has gained international popularity, especially following Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s successful campaign to establish International Yoga Day on June 21. Sheikha Sheikha’s efforts have helped bridge cultural divides and promote well-being across the Arab world.
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