New Delhi: The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today gave away the “Times NOW” Amazing Indians Awards 2016. The awards were given in recognition of great achievements in the face of adversity.
Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said the awardees were people whose life journey had been like a diamond, that passes through great travails before being recognized and acknowledged by the world at large.
The Prime Minister regretted that in India, most of the narrative has been built around the lives of those in power, or the ruling class. Those who have struggled and achieved noble objectives, or served society, despite severe obstacles and adversity, are rarely recognized and celebrated, he added. The Prime Minister said that today in India, a teacher who might have inspired hundreds of young children to become responsible members of society, often remains unnoticed and unheard, while even a relatively junior political functionary is feted.
The Prime Minister said that the world over, most of the great achievers have been those, who overcame personal hardships, or difficult circumstances, and yet contributed to society. Reflecting on Indian history and mythology, the Prime Minister gave several illustrations from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, and recalled the Panj Pyaaras, and the brave Maratha warriors who were part of Chhatrapati Shivaji’s army.
The Prime Minister complimented Times Now for discovering and presenting to the world at large, the awardees for the day, and said their work would inspire many others. He complimented the awardees for their achievements.
MK Anand, MD & CEO, Times Network, said “I would like to thank the Hon’ble Prime Minister for having given us his valuable time. His presence his appreciation and encouragement is something the winners of the Amazing Indian finale will cherish forever.
“Times Network channels are a catalyst for Change and Action. Our effort to recognize and bring stories of Action heroes to our audience is an extension of this celebration of Action. Through our Amazing Indians series, we shall continue to feature such everyday heroes of action. Because our endeavor is to inspire all Indians by paying tribute to these ordinary men and women who make India a better place.”
Arnab Goswami, President-News Times Network, said, “The Prime Minister’s inspirational speech will inspire more such stories of amazing Indians from every nook and corner of this country to the centre stage! Stories that really define the skill and talent of this country.”
The momentous journey of Amazing Indians started 3 years ago. Amazing Indians was launched in September 2012. It is a special series spread across 20 weeks, 4th year in a row now showcasing a total of over 200 achievers from different walks of life. It is a platform saluting the indomitable who have risen above the ordinary and achieved success with a lasting impact. One of India’s biggest and most impactful events where India’s politico’s, bureaucrats and corporate honchos come together on a single platform to celebrate and honor the people who have overcome odds to help others.
It is a platform that pays tribute to real heroes who inspire us with their invincible spirit and courage .With more than 150 rousing stories from the remotest corners of the country showcased through these years, the series has left the nation awestruck and helped participants spread their initiatives far and wide.