By Shahid Nazeer
Nazia Bhat, often referred to as the “Nightingale of Tangmarg Town,” has earned the titles of “One Man Army” and “Jhansi ki Rani” for her remarkable contributions to education.
Born and raised in a small town, where the stars seemed close and dreams had the space to take flight, her childhood was filled with simple joys—playing in the fields, losing herself in books, and cherishing the wisdom of elders.
Little did she know that these early experiences would shape the course of her life. Tragically, she lost her father while she was in Grade 7, marking a profoundly challenging moment in her life. However, her mother stood by her like a mountain, sacrificing her own aspirations to ensure Nazia’s success. “With the entire responsibility on my mother, she never lost her faith. She was a brave lady who instilled moral ethics in our lives, and she inspired me to follow the path of success,” Nazia reflected. Her perseverance, resilience, and courage transformed her into a compassionate, humble woman with a golden heart.
After completing her 10th grade, Nazia aspired to become a doctor. She worked diligently through 11th and 12th grade and appeared for the Common Entrance Test (CET) in 2000, but unfortunately, she did not qualify. Grateful to Almighty Allah for the opportunity to join college, she completed her graduation from Government Women’s College, M.A. Road Srinagar. Despite being focused on pursuing an LLB, destiny had other plans, and she was appointed as a teacher at the zonal level, marking the beginning of her educational career.
Nazia also attempted the KAS (Kashmir Administrative Service) and IAS (Indian Administrative Service) exams, but those paths were not meant for her. She shifted her full attention to teaching, committed to igniting young minds. During her teaching career, she served in middle schools, high schools, and primary schools. “Alhamdulillah, some of my students have gone on to become doctors, engineers, patwaris, and more,” she proudly stated. She also had the opportunity to serve as a resource person and cultural coordinator, receiving numerous appreciation certificates and being recognized as the best orator in a national training program.
Her dedication to education and contributions to the field were recognized when she was honored with the prestigious Dr. Sarojini Naidu International Award 2024. This accolade stands as a testament to her unwavering commitment to empowering students. Beyond the classroom, Nazia has actively engaged in various initiatives aimed at promoting education and social change, utilizing social media platforms to enhance her teaching-learning process and showcase the skills and talents of her students.
“My journey has been a tapestry woven with threads of learning, growth, and service,” Nazia reflected. Gratitude fills her heart for the opportunities and challenges that have shaped her into the person she is today. She remains committed to continuing her pursuit of knowledge, inspiring others, and making a positive difference in society.
