Bharat Gaurav Mr. Shreekumar Toshniwal - Social Worker
Mr. Shreekumar Toshniwal was born on 10th May 1969 in the culturally rich town of Jaswantgarh, nestled in the Nagaur district of Rajasthan, India. He hails from a family deeply rooted in traditional values, social responsibility, and spiritual wisdom. As the proud son of Late Pushkarnarayan Ji Toshniwal, a revered figure of community leadership, he inherited a legacy of service, empathy, and integrity—principles that continue to illuminate every step of his remarkable journey.
Driven by a thirst for knowledge and a passion for enterprise, Mr. Toshniwalpursued his higher education in commerce and earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree. This academic foundation would later evolve into a lifelong commitment to ethical entrepreneurship and sustainable development. Over the years, he has emerged as a trailblazer in industry, a pillar of philanthropy, and a global citizen of conscience, bridging the gap between commerce and compassion with rare distinction.
A dynamic and purpose-driven leader, Mr. Toshniwal is actively associated with a number of prestigious institutions, most notably the Indian Jute Mills Association, and serves in several social, cultural, and charitable trusts that impact thousands of lives across India.
At the helm of one of India’s oldest and most respected industrial establishments-Victoria Jute mill. Mr. Shreekumar Toshniwal has redefined the very essence of responsible industrial leadership. Under his stewardship, the mill, which employs over 4,000 workers, has evolved into a symbol of eco-conscious manufacturing, rural empowerment, and sustainable global trade.
Guided by his vision of blending tradition with technology, the mill has adopted cutting-edge innovations while preserving the essence of jute’s heritage. Today, Victoria Jute Mill is not only a cornerstone of India’s green economy but also a trusted exporter to international markets, reinforcing India’s position in the global sustainability movement.
His inclusive leadership model emphasizes workforce dignity, environmental stewardship, and community integration making the mill a role model for industries across developing economies.
In his influential role as Director of IJMA, Mr. Toshniwal has been a tireless advocate for the Indian jute sector at both national and international forums. With clarity of purpose and strategic foresight, he has played a key role in shaping industrial policies, lobbying for sectoral reforms, and mentoring innovation in traditional manufacturing.
His initiatives have ranged from workforce welfare to digital integration, aiming to rejuvenate a heritage industry for the demands of a modern world. His contributions have positioned him as a global thought leader in sustainable textiles and ethical manufacturing practices.
Beyond his industrial achievements, Mr. Toshniwal’s greatest strength lies in his unwavering compassion. Through the Pushkarnarayan Toshniwal Charitable Trust, established in honor of his late father, he has spearheaded transformative social initiatives across multiple Indian states, especially in rural and underserved areas.
His work reflects a rare synergy of empathy and efficiency where strategy meets soul, and where metrics are measured in lives touched, not just projects completed.
Healthcare:- Launch of ICU ambulances, periodic medical camps, and support for rural hospital infrastructure.
Public Infrastructure & Welfare:- Creation of air-conditioned bus stands, YatriNiwas (pilgrim shelters), and hygiene-focused civic structures in pilgrimage zones.
Education & Youth Empowerment-Funding of schools, digital classrooms, and scholarships, especially for tribal and marginalized children, with a focus on bridging digital divides.
Spiritual & Religious Service- Ongoing support at sacred pilgrimage sites including Gangasagar, Ramdevra, and Deoghar, enabling lakhs of devotees to travel and stay with dignity.
Relief & Essentials:- Funding of schools, digital classrooms, and scholarships, especially for tribal and marginalized children, with a focus on bridging digital divides.
Animal Welfare:- Financial and operational support to goshalas (cow shelters) and promotion of compassionate livestock care.
Cremation Support:- Donation of water pumps, wooden pyres, and logistical aid at Nimtallaghat, Kolkata, ensuring respectful farewells to the departed.
In recognition of his exceptional service to society, he was conferred the Bhamashah Award by the Government of Rajasthan—a prestigious honor that acknowledges excellence in education philanthropy. He is also actively involved in organizations such as the Bengal Badminton Academy, Bharat Relief Society, Maheshwari Seva Trust, and Bidhan Nagar Maheshwari Seva Trust, where he contributes to community sports, cultural upliftment, and youth development. In recognition of his exceptional service to society, he was conferred the Bhamashah Award by the Government of Rajasthan—a prestigious honor that acknowledges excellence in education philanthropy.
He is also actively involved in organizations such as the Bengal Badminton Academy, Bharat Relief Society, Maheshwari Seva Trust, and Bidhan Nagar Maheshwari Seva Trust, where he contributes to community sports, cultural upliftment, and youth development.
Legacy of a Lifetime:- Building India, Serving Humanity.
“In every act of compassion, lies the soul of true leadership.”
Bharat Gaurav Mr. Praveen Chandan - Marketing Company
Pravin Chandan is an experienced marketer with more than two decades of experience that has shaped him into one of the most sought after business consultants in the direct selling industry. He has spearheaded the success of MiLifestyle Global Marketing, a direct selling company with its headquarters in Chennai. Now MI Lifestyle Global Marketing ranks among Top 5 companies in India.
Pravin has been actively involved in several consulting projects with businesses, helping them find value, build scalable marketing processes & driving growth.
1.India’s Largest Direct Selling Entity in Distributors and Ranking one among Top 5 Companies. Has Provided earning opportunity to Millions of People and made them self-reliant and successful.
2.NBFC Company with More than 50 plus Branches across Tamilnaduwith 580 plus employees providing Loan to Four Wheeler and Two Wheelers.
3.Insurance Broking Company with exemplary Marketing and Sales Network and Tie-up with More than 40 plus insurers, 1 lac plus Satisfied Customers and 60 plus Customer connects.
4.Beverages Bottling Unit manufacturing more than 30 Lac Carton per annum.
5.India’s widely recognized and Awarded Ayurvedic Health Care brand.
6.Nationwide Training Academy to train the youths and needy on Sales and Personality development
7.Construction projects across India.
He has always believed in bringing about positive changes in the lives of people & the businesses that serve them & to this end, he has taken on roles that require him to create elaborate business strategies & has been heavily focused on creating new employment opportunities.
“If I can help create jobs & open up spaces for people to find jobs that suit them, I would be able to prevent families from going bankrupt or previously employed people from becoming dependent on others for money."
This attitude has been clear in his efforts & has brought about significant change in the lives of others. He now trains aspiring marketers & entrepreneurs in the best practices in the market, reviews existing marketing plans & suggests improvement, directs new marketing programs & so much more. A simple person who started his Journey with a bachelor’s degree in commerce, have grown to become big brand in Direct Selling Industry, with his sheer dedication and passion in Marketing.
Philanthropist
He is a Philanthropist and believes in spreading joy and happiness. He demonstrates keen interest in supporting education for the underprivileged children. He Supports various Schools and Colleges by his Donations. Had been providing scholarship to few hundreds of people every year. He has sponsored education to more than 15000 plus students over the years through PehchaanCharitable Trust, Chennai. Every week twice 1100 + patients, attendees & General Public are fed at Govt Hospital, (opp) MGR Chennai Central Railway Station with SPL BREAKFAST along with BADAM Milk.
He has helped in building the entire Dental department equipped with Latest and Advanced Modern Equipments at Shree Parshvanath Jain Hospital and Research centre, Beawar, Rajasthan. Multispeciality Hospital In memory of his Mother at Otteri, Chennai. He has helped in construction of Shree KilpaukSwetambar Murtipujak Jain Sangh Trust Kilpauk, Chennai. He has also helped the lesser-privileged communities with food and shelter during natural disasters such as the tsunami (2004) and Vardha cyclone (2016), apart from his regular support to Physically challenged people. Nearly 1.5 crore plus donations have been made to state governments of Gujarat, Kerala, Maharashtra and Tamilnaduduring Covid. He has donated 1 Crore to Kerala State Government for Flood relief. During Covid Time, His Heart opened up to help needy across India.
He Gave 5 Lacs Relief fund to the family of the covid deceased person directly and indirectly involved in his business. Donated 800 plus Oxygen Concentrators to various hospital across India. Donated 1000nos of Hospital Beds to Covid patients across India. Donated More than 25000 Nos of PPE Kit & N95 Mask. Food Donation is one thing which is close to his heart, he has donated Food to 1,00,000 plus People on Pan India Level.
Religious Promotion
Has been active person in donating to the renovation & redevelopment and of Jain Bhavans and Upasara across India. He has helped in building Upasara in Royapetteh, Lumbini & Kilpauk in Chennai, Palithana, Ahemdabad, Mumbai and much more. He was the Main Sponsor for chaturmas Upayan at KesarwadiJain Shwethambar temple, redhills, Chennai in which 450 plus Jain monks from across India participated and their entire stay, food and accommodation was sponsored by him for the entire Chaturmas Period.
Continuously sponsors Jain Teachings to age group of 15 to 25 on the principles of Jainism across India by 2/3 days camp. All expenses fully Covered. Donated freely 25000 plus Book on Life Teaching written by JainacharyaRatnasundersurishwarji Maharaj across India. His Contribution to the Society earned him the Below trusteeship in Various Jain Temple Trust across India on invitation.
Trusteeship
Kesarwadi Jain Shwethambar Jain Trust, Being a Trustee on Invitation to the 2000 Years Old Kesarwadi Temple, Jain Trust, is an Prestiguous Thing. It is in recognition to his Philanthropic efforts.
l Shree Kilpauk Swetambar Murtipujak Jain Sangh Trust l Coorg Jain Trust l Palitana Jain Trust l Ratnashree Jain Trust l TVH Lumbini Jain Sangh
Making a change and Helping People to achieve their Goals is now and will always remain Chandan's primary goal.
Bharat Gaurav Mr. Chandra Shekhar Sarda
Chandra Shekhar Sarda’s journey is not just one of professional achievement, but of legacy in motion — a rare confluence of financial acumen and social vision. A fellow Chartered Accountant with over three decades of experience, he has built more than balance sheets; he has built institutions, uplifted communities, and transformed lives with quiet resolve and unwavering purpose.
An alumnus of St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata, and a proud member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), Mr. Sarda has long been a respected figure in the financial community. As Convenor of the Views Exchange Chartered Accountants Study Circle – EIRC, he led the group to win the Best Study Circle of Eastern India (2012–13), and has contributed meaningfully to ICAI’s Eastern India Regional Council for over two decades. His affiliations span esteemed bodies like the DTPA, NCLT Bar Association, and various alumni and professional networks. Yet, his influence extends far beyond the realm of finance.
As President of the Jaswantgarh Nagrik Parishad Kolkata since 2012, Mr. Sardahas championed the welfare of his community.
His three-term presidency at Lions Club of Calcutta (Tollygunge)—Eastern India’s oldest Lions Club—has seen initiatives ranging from healthcare camps to educational outreach.
He also serves as Honorary Secretary of Hindusthan Club Ltd., curating a legacy of culture, community, and vegetarian hospitality for its 2900 members. As Honorary Secretary of Hindusthan Club he has added a New Chapter to the club’s growth journey under his visionary leadership many modern facilities have been added & created in the club. His tireless efforts have made the atmosphere of the club more lively and attractive and members only get comfortable services but also feel proud of being part of a prosperous and organized community. This initiate of Mr. Sarda has put new energy in the cultural and social life of the club.
At the heart of his service lies the Tolly Lions Dialysis Centre, Eastern India’s largest and most advanced facility of its kind. As Convenor, he oversees over 3000 monthly dialysis at subsidized rates. Under his leadership, it was honored as India’s Best Dialysis Centre by Lions Clubs International. He is the instrumental in making & running this centre.
His philanthropic footprint includes stewardship of Seth Madanlal SardaCharitable Trust and Madanlal Jamunadevi Sarda Trust, through which he supports education (via Purbanchal Kalyan Ashram and Friends of Tribal Society), medical aid, community marriages, and cattle welfare. He has also played key roles in Maheshwari Seva Trust, Jan Jagaran Seva Trust, and Shree Krishna Gopal Gosadan Samiti.
His dedication towards development of education sector is unparallel as he was instrumental in creating infrastructure in many Govt. run schools in Rajasthan for which Govt. of Rajasthan recognized his services and facilitated him for many years.
His commitment to cultural preservation was reflected in his role as Vice President of the Rajasthan Sanskrit Academy (2017–2019), a government body dedicated to promoting India’s ancient language and traditions.
Awards & Recognitions
Bhamashah Awards (2017, 2018, 2019) – Government of Rajasthan
Scholar Award – Government of Rajasthan (2024)
Felicitation – Haridwar Vikas Parishad, Rishikesh (2017)
Certificate of Appreciation–Lions Clubs International, New York (2019–20)
Multiple accolades from Lions Clubs International District 322B2
Appointed Chief Advisor (2025–26) – Lions International District 322B2
Through a seamless blend of sharp intellect, spiritual grounding, and deep community commitment, Chandra Shekhar Sarda continues to stand as a beacon of service-led leadership—an exemplar of how success can be measured not just in profits, but in purpose.
Bharat Gaurav Mr. Annu Kapoor - Celebrity Artist
Annu Kapoor was born on 20th February 1956 in Bhopal India. He is one of the most versatile Artists from the Indian Film world who is An Actor, Singer, Iconic host of musical shows, Radio Presenter, Movie Director, Music composer And the Recipient of several awards. He has studied Hinduism, Islam, Christianity Buddhism, communism, Existentialism etc and got himself liberated as an agnostic individual. He is an admirer of numerous people from
Various fields such as Ghalib Meer Kabir Surdas, Amadeus, Beethoven, Mehdi Hasan, Rashid Khan, Maurice Jarre, Andre Rieu, Nicola Tesla, Carl Gustad Jung, Jean-Paul Sartre, Victor Hugo, Epicurus, And many more. He is one of those rare artists who have used various Indian dialects in his roles. His knowledge of Indian and Western classical music as well as Indian folk and film music is prominently reflected in his shows. He is a rationalist and is much applauded as a motivational speaker across various age groups and sections of society.
He is an Indian and he feels responsible for his country and society and he motivates people to follow the same perspective. He firmly believes that this world does not need geniuses but desperately needs good human beings only.
“बस कि दुशवार है हर काम का आसां होना
आदमी को भी मयस्सर नहीं इंसां होना”
Bharat Gaurav Mrs. Begam Batool - Mand Singer
In the sprawling deserts of Rajasthan, where the sands whisper tales of ancient traditions and vibrant culture, there emerges a voice that transcends time and space. That voice belongs to Mrs. Begam Batool, a true maestro of Rajasthani Bhajan and Maand, whose journey from the narrow alleys of tradition to the grand stages of the world is nothing short of extraordinary.
Born into a conservative Muslim community, where the echoes of tradition often suffocate the dreams of women, Begam Batool dared to defy convention from a young age. Blessed with a natural talent for music, she found solace and expression in the rhythmic beats of the tabla and the soul-stirring melodies of Rajasthani folk songs.
But Begam Batool’s journey to musical prominence was not without its challenges. In a society where women’s voices were meant to be heard only within the confines of their homes, stepping onto the public stage was a bold and courageous act. Yet, fueled by her passion for music and her unwavering determination, she embarked on a journey that would take her beyond the borders of her homeland and into the hearts of audiences worldwide.
With her mastery over a plethora of rhythmic instruments like the tabla, dholak, dhol, and Daf, as well as her proficiency in international instruments like the djembe and darbuka, Begam Batool crafted a unique and mesmerizing style that blended the traditional with the contemporary. Her ability to sing while playing the tabla herself became her signature, captivating audiences with its seamless fusion of melody and rhythm.
Despite facing skepticism and resistance from conservative elements within her community, Begam Batool remained undeterred. For over four decades, she has crisscrossed the globe, sharing the soulful melodies of Rajasthan with audiences in India, Europe, Africa, Australia, and beyond. From the grandeur of the Town Hall of Paris to the humble surroundings of the Cathédrale Saint-Louis in Tunisia, her performances have left an indelible mark on all who have had the privilege of hearing her sing.
But Begam Batool’s contributions extend far beyond her musical prowess. She is a trailblazer, a pioneer, and a tireless advocate for women’s empowerment. In a society where women are often relegated to the sidelines, she has carved out a space for herself as the only woman in her community to perform in public concerts. Through her initiatives like “Bassant,” she provides a platform for talented artists from rural Rajasthan to showcase their skills, fostering a sense of community and pride.
Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. She has been honored with prestigious awards like the “Nari Shakti Puraskar,” the highest civilian honor for women in India, as well as the “Rajasthan Gaurav” Award from the Governor of Rajasthan. She has shared the stage with luminaries from across the globe, including French actress Sandrine Bonnaire, musician duo Polo and Pan, and Spanish flamenco dancer Yolanda Osuna, among others.
But perhaps Begam Batool’s greatest legacy lies in the lives she has touched and the doors she has opened for future generations. Through her advocacy for education and empowerment, she has inspired countless young girls from her community to pursue their dreams, showing them that with talent, determination, and opportunity, anything is possible.
As the spotlight continues to shine on her remarkable journey, Begam Batool remains humble and grounded, a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and unite hearts. Her story, soon to be immortalized in a documentary by acclaimed filmmaker Audre Gordon, serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring musicians and empowered women everywhere. In the rich tapestry of Rajasthan’s cultural heritage, Begam Batool’s voice will forever echo, a testament to the enduring power of music to uplift, inspire, and unite.
Bharat Gaurav Mr. Manish Tripathi - Fashion Designer
In the vibrant cultural mosaic of India, Manish Tripathi’s journey unfolds as a testament to the transformative power of design. Born and raised amidst the rich tapestry of tradition, Manish’s early fascination with the colors and patterns of his surroundings laid the foundation for a lifelong passion for fashion and creativity.
After graduating from the esteemed National Institute of Fashion Technology in New Delhi in 2009, Manish embarked on a professional journey fueled by purpose and determination. His innate talent and innovative approach to design quickly garnered attention, propelling him into the spotlight of India’s fashion landscape.
A pivotal moment in Manish’s career came when he and his team were entrusted with the sacred task of designing the attire for Shri Ramlala Sarkar during his consecration in Ayodhya. Drawing inspiration from his deep-rooted faith and reverence for tradition, Manish approached the project with humility and reverence, creating garments that bridged the gap between the spiritual and the sartorial.
Driven by a desire to give back to his community, Manish spearheaded initiatives aimed at empowering marginalized groups, particularly rural women. In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, he led campaigns to ensure their self-reliance through design and skill training programs, providing them with the tools and resources needed to rebuild their lives.
Throughout his career, Manish has collaborated with a diverse array of institutions and organizations, from The National Institute of Fashion Technology to the Indian Olympic Association. His work has been showcased on prestigious stages worldwide, earning him recognition and acclaim for his creative vision and commitment to excellence.
Today, Manish serves as an advisor in the Sector Skill Council of the National Skill Development Corporation, where he continues to champion the cause of design education and women’s empowerment. Inspired by the transformative vision of leaders like Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath, Manish remains committed to creating a more inclusive and sustainable future through the power of design.
As we reflect on the remarkable journey of Manish Tripathi, we are reminded of the enduring impact of creativity, compassion, and social responsibility. Through his unwavering commitment to empowering others and his relentless pursuit of excellence, Manish has left an indelible mark on the world of fashion and design, proving that when passion and purpose collide, anything is possible.
Bharat Gaurav Indrajeet Rai - Executive Editor ABP News
Mr. Indrajeet Rai is the Executive Editor of ABP News. India’s only and World longest serving Forensic journalist with over 22 years of verified proficiency in News and Investigations. Apart from News and Investigation, His focus is to fight against fake news and misinformation by using science as a weapon.
His academic accomplishments include PhD., Postgraduate in forensic science, Postgraduate in Criminology, Diploma in Cyber Forensic from National Institute of Management and Technology, Certification in CSI from the IFS, Certification in Conflict, Anti-Corruption and Organized Crime from the United Nations Office of Drug and Crime (UNODC). He was Also part of Research Team on Fake News with IIM Indore.
His previous stints As Forensic Expert and Journalist include various leading news channels News18, News Nation, and Zee News in India. India’s only Forensic journalist, Rai has achieved many milestones in his journalistic career and has received several awards for Excellent Contribution in Media by News Television Industry including NT Award and ENBA Award.
He conducts training sessions for various government departments, including, Uttar Pradesh Police, MP Police, Chhattisgarh Police, Uttarakhand Police, Central Forest Academy. He is Also Visiting Faculty of Various Universities including, University of Lucknow, Bikaner University, Amity University, Sharda University.
Bharat Gaurav Mr. Kamlesh D. Patel Dani - Spiritual Leader
During our life, we cross paths with many people. While each person we interact with impacts us in unique ways, only a rare few have the ability to heal our hearts with a love so generous and unconditional that it could only be considered divine.
Such is the heart and soul of the quiet, self-effacing man lovingly known to the world as Daaji.
It is no secret that humanity is struggling through turbulent times. Whether it’s an erosion of family structures, a global mental health crisis, or any other challenge, we are collectively passing through intense pain and confusion.
As the founder of The Heartfulness Institute, Daaji has taken it upon himself to work tirelessly during this difficult time towards the reintegration of each individual heart and, by extension, the entire world to reach a collective state of joy, contentment and inner peace.
By spreading the principles of heart-centred living through Heartfulness Meditation, Daaji, who was recently awarded the Padma Bhushan, is quietly transforming the lives of hundreds of millions of people all over the world.
The late great Maya Angelou once said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Daaji’s generosity, love, and gentleness are such that every heart he interacts with leaves feeling indelibly touched, loved, inspired, and optimistic for a better future, not only for him or herself, but for the entire planet.
A slice of heaven in Hyderabad
Daaji has constructed the world’s largest meditation centre at Kanha Shanti Vanam, in Hyderabad. The pristine campus sprawls over 1400 acres and features a meditation hall that can hold over 100,000 meditators at one time. Inaugurated in 2020 by the President of India, Kanha has been named “The Pride of Telangana” and is a Centre of Excellence for those looking to become their best selves in all walks of life.
Making meditation accessible to all
Spirituality is every human being’s birthright and Daaji is working to bring Heartfulness to the doorstep of every individual on the planet. Under his leadership, The Heartfulness Institute launched The Heartfulness App, which allows anyone with a phone to meditate with Yogic Transmission, anywhere, anytime, for free. Additionally, Daaji oversees the work of over 15,000 meditation trainers who offer free in-person meditation training to over 4 million people all over the world.
Ushering in a green future
Daaji is not only an expert at healing the human heart. He is also deeply concerned with healing Mother Earth and is committed to the development of a green future where we can all breathe easy. The Forests By Heartfulness initiative has already planted over 1 million trees and aims to plant over 30 million trees across India by 2025.
Investing in the next generation
Daaji pioneered the development of the Heartfulness Education Trust, which aims to create a new generation of hearts and minds through holistic education based on heart-centred meditation and lifestyle. Heartfulness Education is transforming society by enabling every student to live a balanced, purposeful life with enhanced awareness, compassion, and competence.
We all seek happiness. Even a small creature seeks happiness. Smallest of the small seeks happiness and comfort, yet it keeps eluding most of us. The backing of happiness is provided by a contemplative mind. A restless mind cannot enjoy whatsoever it may hold, whatsoever it may accumulate. To attain happiness, a contemplative and restful mind is mandatory — but how can we arrive at such a restful and contemplative mind without the ability to have a focused mind?
One moment you are thinking of some project; another moment you are jumping to the next idea and then another one. That is not a focused mind. The cultivation of a focused mind is possible only with regulation of the mind. This regulation is possible only and only through meditation. So, you can connect the dots.
Heartfulness is proud to offer meditation training for many decades without charging a single naya paisa [dime] from anyone. It is free of charge. We have not made yoga an udyog. Heartfulness is the beginning of a new era of spirituality and India, our great nation, can stand and guide the rest of the world on its foundation of spirituality, not on religion.
Bharat Gaurav Dr. Davendra Mehta - Director of the Al-Sabah Arrhythmia Institute at Mount Sinai Morningside Hospital
Dr Mehta has been Director of the Al-Sabah Arrhythmia Institute at Mount Sinai Morningside Hospital and Professor of Medicine at Mount Sinai School of Medicine for more than 15 years. He is world renowned physician in field of cardiac arrhythmias/Electrophysiology.
He is medical graduate from JLN Medical College Ajmer in Rajasthan and did MD in Internal Medicine from the prestigious Post-Graduate Institute in Chandigarh where he also worked in a faculty position for 2 years.
He did cardiology training from Leicester in United Kingdom. During this time he qualified to be a member of The Royal College of Physicians of London. He did cardiac electrophysiology fellowship from St Barthalomew’s and St George’s Hospitals of University of London and was awarded a PhD by the University of London for work on “Ventricular Tachycardia in patients with clinically normal heart”. His work was published in several high impact peer review journals including the Lancet, Journal of American College of Cardiology and Circulation. Following this he worked as establishing team of cardiologist at Escort’s Heart Hospital in New Delhi for 2 years and subsequently moved to the USA in 1990 on American Heart Association grant New Jersey Affiliates for investigation of mapping of ventricular tachycardia.
He joined the faculty of Mount Sinai Hospital and School of Medicine in 1992 as clinical cardiologist and electrophysiologist and is now a professor and Director of Section of cardiac Electrophysiology. He is board certified in internal medicine, cardiovascular diseases and clinical cardiac electrophysiology.
He has extensively published and has more than 200 Manuscripts to his credit. He regularly lectures nationally and internationally. Field of research interest are physical maneuvers in treatment of supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular arrhythmias in patients with normal coronary arteries, QT interval in patients with Methadone therapy and diagnosis and prevention of Arrhythmias in patients with Cardiac Sarcoidosis.
He is on the national committee for expert consensus for the management of cardiac sarcoidosis. He is fellow of the American College of Cardiology, Heart Rhythm Society and The Royal College of Physicians of UK.
He is on the list for New Yorks and Americas Best Doctors for over 20 years (best 5% physicians).
Bharat Gaurav Dr. Sadhna Joshi - Virologist
Dr. Sadhna Joshi is a molecular virologist with over 45 years of research experience. She has a stellar academic record and an unrelenting dedicationto excellence. She is also recognized for her commitment to promoting Indian culture and literature, as well as for her contributions to the Indo- Canadian community.
Family background:
Dr. Joshi is inspired by her paternal grandfather, the late Mahamahopadhyay Professor Ram Pratap Shastri, the Head of the Dept. of Sanskrit, Pali, and Prakrit at the University of Nagpur. Her parents, the late Dr. Vraj Raj Joshi and Dr. Saraswati Joshi (Chevalier, dans l’Ordre des Palmes Académiques, Govt. de France), were Maître de Conférences at Institut National des Langues et Civilizations Orientales (INALCO, Paris, France), where they taught Hindi as a foreign language. In addition, her father taught Indian economics at INALCO and SciencesPo (formerly École Libre des Sciences Politiques), and her mother taught Indian culture at the Dept. of Indian civilization.
Her brother, Dr. Rajiv L. Joshi, D.Sc. (Thèse d’État), is a Director of Research at the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), conducting research in neuroscience at the Collège de France in Paris. In 1979, Dr. Joshi married Dr. Ram N. Sukhwal, who obtained an M.Eng. from India, a Docteur - Ingénieur from the University of Paris VI, and a P.Eng. from Canada. Unfortunately, he passed away in 2011. They have one son, Raman Sukhwal.
Education:
After completing higher secondary education while living with her maternal grandparents in Udaipur, Dr. Joshi joined her parents in Paris, France, in July 1972. She quickly learned French during the summer and joined the University in September. Dr. Joshi completed her B.Sc., an M.Sc. with mention très bien, and obtained both her Ph.D. and D.Sc. (Thèse d’État) on plant RNA viruses’ structure, function, and life cycle with mention très honorable avec félicitations du jury from the Institut Jacques Monod, Université Paris VII. She was also a post-doctoral fellow at the University of Leiden, The Netherlands, for two years. She received several fellowships and awards from Fondation pour la Recherche Médicale Française, the European Molecular Biology Organization Long-term Postdoctoral fellowship, International Cell Research Organization (UNESCO), and Délégation Générale à la Recherche Scientifique et Technique. Academic career: Allelix Inc., a biotechnology company in Mississauga, Ontario, sponsored her to come to Canada as a Research Scientist in 1983. She then became a Senior Research Scientist and Principal Investigator in AIDS and Immune Regulation and coordinated the expression of soluble/secreted CD4 protein (receptor of human immunodeficiency virus, HIV) for clinical trials and drug design to treat AIDS patients. In parallel, she was the first to conceive the idea and begin research on HIV gene therapy, whereby patients’ hematopoietic stem cells, which give rise to the HIV target cells or other cells (e.g., muscle cells), would be genetically modified for continuous production of antivirals. Gene therapy is particularly important as a single gene delivery procedure could ideally provide a lifetime treatment. This project was given high priority and was funded by a special committee set up by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR).
In 1988, Dr. Joshi joined the Dept. of Microbiology/Molecular Genetics at the University of Toronto as an Associate Professor and Director of the HIV Research Laboratory. In 1991, she was tenured, was cross-appointed in the Dept. of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, and became a full member of the School of Graduate Studies. Since 2020, Dr. Joshi has been a fellow of the Senior College, Professor Emerita at the University of Toronto, and Chief Scientific Officer of the Division of Biologics at Biolyse Pharma. With over $3,000,000 in funding from CIHR, the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research, the National Health and Research Development Program, and the University, her research focused on developing genetic strategies for HIV treatment and prevention. It led to several patents and hundreds of publications in top peer-reviewed journals and presentations at national and international conferences. In addition to undergraduate courses, Dr. Joshi supervised numerous M.Sc., Ph.D., and M.D. students, many of whom hold important positions.
For treatment, various gene therapy strategies developed in her laboratory include sense and decoy RNAs, antisense RNAs, multimeric ribozymes, mobile group II introns, trans-dominant negative mutants, targeted RNases, single-chain antibodies, and secreted antiviral proteins. Many of these strategies were original and highly effective at inhibiting HIV infection and spread. A “humanized” mouse model was also established to test HIV gene therapy strategies in vivo. For prevention, antiviral proteins were optimized for secretion from strains of Lactobacillus that colonize the vagina and gastrointestinal tract to develop microflora defense. As Lactobacillus makes yogurt, the engineered strains could be propagated at home and delivered orally, representing the most affordable, accessible, safe, and easy-to-use preventive measure to block HIV transmission.
Contributions to society and community involvement:
Dr. Joshi believes one could give back to society in many ways: teaching and educating; offering help and support; promoting language, culture, and traditional values; and remaining faithful to the countries of origin and residence. In addition to her exemplary and remarkable contributions to the Indo-Canadian community, she is recognized for her dedication and efforts in promoting Indian culture and literature through her poems and articles in Hindi and English.
Dr. Joshi is the Editor-in-Chief of the Annual Magazines published by RANA Canada since 2013. She was also the Editor-in-Chief of the souvenir book, Incredible Indo-Canadians, published by the National Alliance of Indo-Canadians in honor of the Indian Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi’s visit to Toronto in 2015. Dr. Joshi has been the President of the World Brahman Federation (WBF) Canada since 2018 and the Vice-President of Vishva Hindi Sansthan Canada since 2013. In addition to organizing several gatherings and helping the community, she helped arrange many Kavi Sammelan events and two International Hindi Literary Conferences.
Awards and recognitions: Dr. Joshi received the Professional Female of the Year 2013 Award from the Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce (ICCC) in Canada, and the 2013 Bharat Gaurav (Pride of India) Award from India International Friendship Society in India. In 2014, she received the Long Service Award from the President of the University of Toronto. In 2018, Dr. Joshi received the Achievement and Recognition Award from the Indian Canadian Organization and the Lifetime/Outstanding Achievement Award from ICCC. In 2018, she also received the Samaj Ratn Award from Srishya Shring Sansthan in India.
Moreover, she was twice awarded the Member of the Year Award from the Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA) Canada, in 2013 and 2022, respectively, and received the Distinguished Academician and Community Service Award from RANA USA in 2023. In recognition of her numerous contributions to research and community, her profile was published in a book, Jewels of India, featuring 75 Indo-Canadians, released in 2022 at the occasion of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav by the High Commissioner of India in Ottawa, Canada.