Why India is honoring Kuwait's Shaikha Al-Sabah with Padma Shri
What's the story
The Indian government has conferred the Padma Shri award on Kuwait's Sheikha Shaikha Ali Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.
She has been recognized for her immense contribution toward promoting yoga in Kuwait and the region.
The Indian Embassy in Kuwait announced the honor on Tuesday, making her the first Kuwaiti national to be awarded such a prestigious honor.
Yoga promotion
Al-Sabah's contributions to yoga and fitness in Kuwait
Al-Sabah is the founder of Daratma, Kuwait's first licensed yoga studio. The name "Daratma" combines the Arabic word "Dar" (home) with the Sanskrit word "Atma" (soul), representing a profound connection to India.
Her work resulted in Kuwait's Ministry of Commerce & Industry introducing a yoga education license.
She also co-founded Shems Youth Yoga, aimed at children aged 0-14 years old.
Diplomatic ties
PM Modi's meeting with Al-Sabah and her humanitarian work
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had met Al-Sabah during his December 2024 visit to Kuwait.
He had lauded her commitment to yoga and fitness on X (formerly Twitter), saying, "Met HH Shaikha AJ Al-Sabah in Kuwait. She has distinguished herself for her passion toward yoga and fitness."
Their talks were focused on making yoga more popular among youth.
Philanthropy
Al-Sabah's humanitarian initiatives and creative ventures
Beyond yoga, Al-Sabah has launched humanitarian initiatives like Yomnak lil Yaman to help Yemeni refugees. During the pandemic, she distributed educational supplies to underprivileged children in Kuwait.
Her global engagements include organizing Reiki Jin Kei Do master training and conducting consciousness training at the Monroe Institute in the United States.
She also founded Shams Concept design studio and was a creative producer for KenNiz TV show on Al-Watan TV.