Made a sketch of Gandhi Ji with a spinning wheel

Pampore: Munaza Mushtaq, an 8th-grade student from Chandhara village in Pampore of South Kashmir’s Pulwama district, secured the first position in a painting competition held on Gandhi Jayanti.
The event, organized by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) at the Production-Cum-Marketing-Training Centre (PMTC) in Saffron Town Pampore, paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 154th birthday.
Talking to Kashmir Reader Munaza Mushtaq, a student of Birla Open Minds International School in Pampore, expressed her delight at winning the competition. For her entry, she created a sketch of Mahatma Gandhi with a spinning wheel.
“Participating in such events is essential; it not only facilitates learning and growth but also encourages students to step out of their comfort zones,” she said. She emphasized the importance of balancing education with extracurricular activities, believing that such competitions help individuals discover their talents and interests, potentially paving the way for diverse career paths beyond traditional professions.
“One should participate in competitions alongside studies because it’s crucial. You never know where your true talent lies; perhaps a competition could be the avenue to discover what you excel at. It’s not just about studying; competitions are also a part of education,” Munaza added, highlighting the holistic approach to learning.
On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, Munaza expressed her pride in being part of the competition, honouring the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. “Through this competition, we paid a significant tribute to Mahatma Gandhi Ji on his 154th birthday. He was a prominent freedom fighter, a role model for our country, and the father of our nation. As today is Gandhi Jayanti, I feel proud to be part of this competition and to show our respect. Mahatma Gandhi Ji is still in our hearts and will always be.”
Anil Kumar Sharma, the Principal of PMTC KVIC Pampore, praised Munaza’s exceptional painting skills. Talking to Kashmir Reader, he expressed the centre’s willingness to support her in her artistic endeavours.
Munaza was awarded a trophy, and the KVIC has promised to provide her with a certificate.
Sharma expressed his desire to encourage such talented children. “We have awarded her a trophy and promised to provide her with a certificate. In the future, if there is any support or assistance from our centre or from KVIC, we are fully prepared to extend it,” he said.

BILAL HABIB