Celebrating Humanitarian Day: Honouring the Spirit of Selflessness

At the heart of being human lies a deep connection to others, a feeling that we’re all in this together - sharing life’s challenges, joys, and struggles.  A humanitarian is someone who lives with this understanding every day, choosing kindness and compassion in a world that often feels divided. They see beyond the differences that separate us and focus on what binds us together—our shared humanity. 

"You don’t need to go too far to do charity. Do something good for those around you."

 Being a humanitarian isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about the small, everyday choices to help, listen with empathy, and extend a hand to those in need. It’s recognizing the pain of others and doing what you can to ease it—whether through a smile, a meal, or simply being there. Humanitarianism is living with an open heart, caring deeply for people, even those you may never meet, and believing that everyone deserves dignity, respect, and a chance at a better life. 

 World Humanitarian Day is a time to , reflect, and honor those who dedicate their lives to the service of others. Among the many heartfelt tributes to selflessness and compassion stands the Santokbaa Humanitarian Award—a symbol of love, kindness, and the enduring legacy of one extraordinary woman, Santokbaa (Mother of Govindkaka).  

 Shri Govind Dholakia , the visionary behind this award and the Founder and Chairman of SRK Knowledge Foundation, instituted the award in 2006 to keep alive the spirit of his beloved mother Santokbaa. Santokbaa was a woman whose heart overflowed with kindness, who saw every person as part of her extended family, and who believed that true joy came from giving. Her life was a lesson in humility, and her actions, driven by love, touched countless lives. 

In instituting the Santokbaa Humanitarian Award, Shri Govind Dholakia aimed to honor those who, like his mother, have dedicated their lives to others. This award isn’t just a recognition—it’s a celebration of the human spirit at its finest. It acknowledges the unsung heroes among us, those who lead with their hearts, who see the world’s suffering and step forward to heal it, who inspire others to carry forward the torch of compassion. 

On 10th August 2024, in Mumbai, the Santokbaa Humanitarian Award ceremony was held to honor few more extraordinary individuals for their incredible contributions to society. Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla, Dr. Abhay Bang & Dr. Rani Bang, and Shri Shiv Nadar were recognized for their selfless dedication and the positive change they’ve brought to countless lives.

Their paths of kindness and generosity have touched so many hearts, making the world a better place. With these recognitions, the award till date has  celebrated 17 amazing individuals who embody the true spirit of humanity.  

As we celebrate World Humanitarian Day, let’s take a moment to feel the warmth of these stories, to let them touch our hearts, and to inspire us to be better, to do better. The world needs more of spirit like. Santokbaa—more kindness, more understanding, more love. In a world full of challenges, humanitarians remind us that we can all make a difference. 

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