DHARAMSHALA: Shikha Mankotia, a resident of Challet village in Amb subdivision of Una district of Himachal Pradesh, has been conferred the ‘Bharat Gaurav 2025’ award for her outstanding contributions in the field of yoga.
The honour was presented by the Swarnim Himachal Jan Jagran Samiti during its annual programme ‘Sneh Milan 2025’, held at Pinjore in Haryana.
The event was graced by Dr Shabab Alam, Chairman of the Indian First Aid Council, as the chief guest. Dr. Kuldeep Singh Mehta, the founder and state president of the samiti, along with several committee members, were also present on the occasion.
Alongside the Bharat Gaurav honour, the organisation also presented Himachal Gaurav Awards to other distinguished individuals.
Shikha, who is currently pursuing her PhD in Yoga from Shoolini University, Solan, has earlier been recognised with prestigious titles such as the Best Yoga Teacher Award by the Indian Yoga Therapist Association in December 2023 and the Swami Dhirendra Brahmachari Yoga Shri Award by the Bharatiya Yoga Shikshak Mahasangh in 2024. She also holds the position of State Chairperson for Himachal Pradesh with the International Human Rights and Crime Control Organisation.
A trained yoga therapist, Shikha has previously worked in Singapore and now offers online yoga consultations. She credits her success to her parents, in-laws, husband, mentors and elders, acknowledging their continuous support throughout her journey.
Shikha comes from a family of proud public servants. Her grandfather-in-law, the late Krishan Chand, retired as an inspector from the Cooperative Society Bank, and her father-in-law, Jyoti Prakash, is a retired Kanungo from the Punjab Revenue Department.
Spreading wellness through yoga
Shikha strongly believes yoga has been the foundation of her achievements. She is now dedicated to spreading awareness of yoga among school and college students, teaching them how it can help manage stress and enhance performance in every aspect of life.
She also works with expecting mothers, guiding them on how to make pregnancy a joyful and transformative experience through prenatal yoga and Garbh Sanskar practices.
“Yoga changed my life, and now I want to help others change theirs through it,” she said, reflecting on her mission to build a healthier and more conscious society.
In a moment of pride for Himachal Pradesh, Shikha has also been invited to the 2nd International Women Parliamentary Conference, to be held in Dubai on June 30, where she will be honoured with the Iconic Award. This international recognition is a testament to her dedication and a matter of pride not just for Una district, but for the entire state.
TNR News Network
