Pune, Sept 25 (KNS): “Kashmiris have always stood firmly with India, despite attempts by neighboring countries to create unrest and violence. The people of Kashmir have consistently proved themselves an integral part of the nation, and their contribution in the service of the country is immense. Supporting these efforts, organizations like Sarhad have played a vital role in strengthening the bond. Sarhad has shown that the entire nation stands united with Kashmir,” said veteran leader, former Union Minister, and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) President *Sharad Pawar* on Wednesday.

Pawar was speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of the *Vijay Dhar Amphitheatre’* established in the premises of *Sarhad Global School and Junior College* at Gujarwadi, Pune. The amphitheatre has been dedicated to the memory and work of Kashmir’s eminent educationist, social activist, and thinker *Vijay Durga Prasad Dhar*.

The event was attended by former Union Home Minister *Sushilkumar Shinde*, Vijay Dhar along with his wife Kiran Dhar and daughter Kanika Dhar, Sarhad founder *Sanjay Nahar*, Principal Sushma Nahar, Sant Singh Mokha, trustee Shailesh Wadekar, Dr. Shailesh Pagaria and , architect Imran Shaikh, Vasant More and several dignitaries.

Highlighting Pune’s historic role in uniting the nation, Pawar said:
“Pune has always shown India a new path — whether in education, industry, IT, or culture. Lokmanya Tilak initiated the movement to bring people together from this very city. Today, when Kashmir has faced long years of turmoil that disrupted education, it is people like Vijay Dhar and institutions like Sarhad that took responsibility and worked with dedication. Kashmir is India’s crown jewel, and no matter how much unrest is attempted, it will always remain an integral part of our country.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel”

*Sushilkumar Shinde*, recalling his association with Dhar, said:
“I was introduced to Vijay Dhar by Pawar Saheb in 1974. Since then, I have witnessed his remarkable work in education and society in Kashmir. His father Durga Prasadji Dhar was a close advisor to Indira Gandhi, and Vijayji himself served as advisor during Rajiv Gandhi’s tenure. The school and institutions he has built in Kashmir are considered among the finest. By dedicating this amphitheatre in his name, Sarhad has honored a visionary contribution. When I was Union Home Minister, the situation in Kashmir was largely under control. Sadly, it has deteriorated again now. The recent Pahalgam incident raises questions that the people must reflect upon.”

Expressing gratitude, *Vijay Dhar* spoke of his long friendship with Sharad Pawar:
“Pawar Saheb first invited me to Baramati, where I witnessed his pioneering work. Inspired by this, I have always tried to contribute positively to education in Kashmir. In this effort, Sarhad and Sanjay Nahar have stood with me, giving immense support,” Dhar said.

Delivering the introductory remarks, *Sanjay Nahar* noted:
“Vijay Dhar’s work spans across education, culture, and social development. This amphitheatre symbolizes our commitment to carrying forward his legacy. Both Sharad Pawar and Sushilkumar Shinde have extended valuable support to Sarhad’s initiatives over the years.”

The program began with the recitation of the *Navkar Mantra* by kashmiri girl Ruqayya maqbool and the state song. Several contributors to the Gujarwadi Educational Complex were felicitated by dignitaries. Leshpal Jawalge proposed the vote of thanks, and Neerja Apte conducted the proceedings.