“Fostering Tomorrow Amidst Adversity: Vijay Dhar’s Path of Perseverance and Revival”

Vijay Dhar, the esteemed octogenarian and chairman of Delhi Public School (DPS) Srinagar, serves as a living testament to the intricate tapestry of Kashmir’s history and its potential for revitalization. Now at the age of 83, Dhar epitomizes resilience, having weathered the storm of Kashmir’s tumultuous past, including the exodus of approximately 40,000 Kashmiri Pandit families during the 1990s, among them his own. Despite the harrowing experiences, Dhar made a conscious decision to return to his roots in 1997, reclaiming his ancestral home and laying the cornerstone for DPS Srinagar in 2003. His narrative transcends mere personal fortitude; it embodies a resolute commitment to education and communal harmony, which he fervently advocates for in the Valley.

Dhar’s journey unfolds against the backdrop of his early life and educational foundation. Born in the early 1940s, his formative years were shaped by the enlightened decisions of his father, particularly the choice to send him to Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) in Delhi, under the guidance of eminent educationist Agha Ashraf Ali. This pivotal experience exposed Dhar to diverse cultures and religions, instilling in him a profound reverence for communal harmony—a value he carried with him back to Kashmir, where he continued his education at Tyndale Biscoe School.

The ethos of communal harmony ingrained in Dhar during his upbringing in Kashmir became a guiding principle throughout his life. Despite the socio-political shifts over the years, he attests to never facing discrimination based on his Hindu identity. This enduring commitment to fostering unity amidst diversity was further strengthened by his global exposure and educational insights gleaned from travels abroad, particularly in Moscow.

In 1992, propelled by an innate desire to enrich his homeland, Dhar returned to Kashmir, confronting a multitude of challenges, including security threats and religious discord. Recognizing the necessity for Kashmiri youth to compete globally, he advocated for the adoption of the CBSE syllabus over the state syllabus. Despite disagreements with the DPS Chairman in Delhi regarding this crucial decision, Dhar remained undeterred. His unwavering determination culminated in the establishment of DPS Srinagar in 2003, a testament to his vision of imparting quality education and fostering societal advancement. Today, DPS Srinagar stands as a beacon of educational excellence, nurturing countless students and instilling in them modern skills and values under Dhar’s steadfast leadership.

Beyond DPS Srinagar, Dhar has been a vocal proponent of collaboration between private and government schools, advocating for initiatives to improve overall educational standards in the Valley. Despite setbacks, his dedication remains unwavering, as evidenced by his ongoing efforts to establish private colleges offering contemporary courses like Artificial Intelligence (AI) to bridge the technological gap.

Dhar’s nuanced perspective on the abolition of Article 370 and the return of Kashmiri Pandits reflects his pragmatism and foresight. While recognizing the positive effects on health and infrastructure, he emphasizes the need for governmental transparency and a clear roadmap for Jammu and Kashmir’s future. Regarding the repatriation of Kashmiri Pandits, Dhar prioritizes practical opportunities and a sense of security, cognizant of the challenges posed by the younger generation’s established lives elsewhere.

In collaboration with Inox, Dhar inaugurated Srinagar’s first multiplex in over three decades, aiming to revive the cinematic culture in Kashmir and bridge cultural divides. This endeavour, rooted in his family’s longstanding connection with cinema, exemplifies his unwavering commitment to revitalizing entertainment options in the Valley.

Vijay Dhar’s legacy goes beyond personal achievements; it encapsulates a shared dream for a prosperous Kashmir. His life story inspires, illustrating how education, communal unity, and visionary leadership can transform communities. Despite enduring past and present challenges, Dhar’s resilience, empathy, and unyielding commitment shine as beacons of hope for the Valley’s future. His unwavering dedication to fostering education and harmony underscores the potential for positive change in Kashmir. In a region marked by turmoil, Dhar’s example highlights the importance of perseverance and compassion in paving the way for a brighter tomorrow. As Kashmir navigates its path forward, Dhar’s legacy stands as a reminder of the transformative impact individuals can have on society when guided by principles of inclusivity, progress, and unity.

visit arjasrikanth.in for more insights