ISLAMABAD/KARACHI, Aug 4: Pakistani parliamentarian and minority rights advocate Dr. Ramesh Kumar Vankwani has received the Global Hindu Award 2026 at a ceremony held in Calgary, Alberta, according to a statement issued on Tuesday.
Vankwani, who serves as patron-in-chief of the Pakistan Hindu Council, was recognised for his work in promoting minority rights, interfaith harmony and humanitarian welfare. The statement described him as the only Pakistani citizen honoured at the Dhanteras Gala 2026.
The event brought together Canadian political leaders, diplomats, business figures and community representatives to celebrate Hindu heritage and recognise contributions to public service, philanthropy and community leadership.
Participants included Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas, Alberta’s Minister of Justice and Attorney General Mickey Amery, and representatives from different levels of government and the diplomatic community.
Messages shared at the ceremony highlighted the contribution of Canada’s Hindu community to the country’s social, cultural and economic development.
Award dedicated to Pakistan’s Hindu community
Speaking at the event, Vankwani dedicated the award to Pakistan’s Hindu community and to those who had supported his work in humanitarian service and interfaith engagement.
“This award is not merely a personal honour but a recognition of the resilience, peaceful values and positive contributions of the Hindu community of Pakistan,” he said.
He said the recognition had strengthened his commitment to the Hindu principles of Seva, or selfless service, Karma, or positive action, and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which expresses the idea that the world is one family.
Vankwani promotes Pakistan’s Hindu pilgrimage sites
Vankwani also highlighted Pakistan’s importance in Hindu religious and cultural history, inviting participants to visit some of the country’s prominent pilgrimage sites.
He named Hinglaj Mata Mandir, Katas Raj Temples, Teri Temple and Prahlad Mandir in Multan among the sacred destinations that continue to preserve centuries-old religious heritage.
He said visits to such sites could promote religious tourism, strengthen people-to-people ties and encourage greater understanding among followers of different faiths.
Humanitarian projects highlighted
Vankwani also spoke about welfare initiatives being undertaken through the Pakistan Hindu Council, including Prem Nagar, a planned 150-acre model welfare village in Islamkot, Tharparkar.
He said the project and other humanitarian programmes were aimed at supporting social welfare, minority rights and community development.
Vankwani thanked the Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce for organising the event and recognising individuals working in public service, philanthropy and community leadership across the world.
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