“When One Person Gets Addicted, Entire Families And Society Suffer”: Vandana Daftari, Director Art of Living Foundation
Hundreds Of Students Join Hands To Spread Anti-Drug Awareness Under “Say No To Drugs, Yes To Life” Campaign
Srinagar, 07 May, 2026: In a powerful display of unity and social responsibility, Kashmir Harvard Educational Institute Srinagar in collaboration with Art of Living Foundation launched a major awareness rally under the banner “Nasha Mukt Abhiyan Kashmir – Say No to Drugs, Yes to Life” in Srinagar, aiming to raise public awareness about the dangerous and devastating impact of drug addiction on individuals, families and society.
The rally, marked by vibrant youth participation and a strong community spirit, witnessed hundreds of students marching through the streets of Srinagar alongside faculty members, volunteers and organizers while carrying hand-painted posters, placards and banners displaying powerful anti-drug messages including “Drug-Free Kashmir” and “Don’t Let Drugs Destroy Your Dreams.”
The programme served as a strong clarion call for society to collectively recognize and combat the growing menace of substance abuse, particularly among the younger generation. Participants actively raised awareness slogans and appealed to the public to support the vision of a healthier and drug-free Kashmir.
A prominent highlight of the event was the participation of Vandana Daftari, who joined the students and organizers in emphasizing the importance of choosing life, purpose and positivity over addiction. Her presence added further momentum to the campaign and inspired students to become ambassadors of social change within their communities.
Addressing the participants during the rally, Vandana Daftari said the impact of drug addiction extends far beyond the individual and deeply affects families and society at large.
she said “When one person gets addicted to drugs, it’s not just their life that’s destroyed, it’s their parents and our entire society that suffers. Our message to the youth is simple Your life is precious. Choose life and purpose,”.
She further stressed that awareness, emotional strength, community support and youth engagement are essential to successfully tackle the growing drug menace and build a secure future for coming generations.
The organizers said the rally was organized as part of the larger ongoing Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan and reflected a shared commitment towards building a drug-free society through awareness, education and collective participation. They emphasized that a united community-wide approach remains the key to bringing lasting and meaningful social transformation.
The enthusiastic participation of students throughout the rally showcased the determination of the younger generation to stand firmly against substance abuse and support initiatives aimed at protecting society from the harmful effects of drugs.
The organizers also extended heartfelt gratitude to the teachers, students, volunteers and local authorities who worked tirelessly to ensure the successful conduct of the programme and helped spread the anti-drug message far and wide across the city.
The Kashmir Harvard Educational Institute working under its motto “Ladder to Prosperity,” continues to actively engage in educational, social and awareness initiatives focused on holistic student development and positive social change in Jammu & Kashmir.
The Art of Living Foundation, founded by spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, is a globally recognized humanitarian and educational organization working in the fields of stress management, leadership development, youth empowerment and social welfare initiatives across the world.
