Published: October 11, 2008 09:55 pm         

Dr. Faheem to receive Hind Rattan award

Beckley psychiatrist Dr. Ahmed Faheem was notified this week he is a recipient of the prestigious Hind Rattan award given annually to about 30 people worldwide of Indian descent.

The award known in Hindi as “Jewel of India” is awarded by the NRI Welfare Society of India in a ceremony held in conjunction with Indian Republic Day, which will be Jan. 29, 2009.

Faheem and his wife Najma will travel to New Delhi for the ceremony.

“This came as quite a surprise, but I am very pleased by it,” Faheem said. “It is nice to be honored by the country in which you were born. My family and I are Americans, and we are very loyal to this country, but it’s nice to be recognized in the land of your roots.”

The Hind Rattan is given to people from India who have made significant contributions elsewhere in the world. Faheem will be recognized for his work, both as a physician and as an active participant in legislative and civic affairs.

“My late father was a senator in India, so I inherited that desire to be involved in politics from him, I guess. I believe, as he did, that we have a responsibility to try to make the world a better place and leave wherever we are better than how we found it,” he said.

Though awarded by a private organization, the Hind Rattan carries much prestige and has been given to a number of prominent personalities, including present and past members of the Indian government.

“It’s quite an honor, and I’m truly looking forward to being part of the ceremony and the celebration,” he said.

Faheem’s mother is still living in India, and he plans to spend time with her during his visit.

— E-mail: bdavis@register-herald.com