Romi Sharma: A Multifaceted Beacon of Change
Romi Sharma: A Multifaceted Beacon of Change
Romi Sharma, an accomplished actor, writer, producer, peace builder, and social activist, epitomizes the adage that "change begins with one person." Hailing from Jammu, Sharma's journey began in 1993 following her completion of the NSD Theatre Workshop. Her extensive education includes a Master's degree in Education, a Post Graduate Diploma in Mass Communication and Journalism, and training for nursery teachers. Sharma's illustrious career in the arts is marked by her collaborations with internationally renowned theatre directors like MK Raina, Balwant Thakur, and Mushtaq Kak. She has graced more than 400 serials and telefilms for various television channels, working under the direction of luminaries such as Dinesh Babbar, Ved Rahi, and Tariq Shah.
Sharma's contributions extend beyond acting. She has been a prominent drama artist associated with Aakashwani Jammu & Kashmir and Delhi, and has worked as an assistant director on numerous projects. Her literary prowess is evident in her Hindi storybook "Nahi Abhi Ant Nahi," her collection of poems "Wajah Ho Tum," and the collective poetry book "Samvet." Her poems and short stories have been featured in respected magazines like Shiraza, Sarv Bhasha Patrika, Pankhuri, and Arpita.
A defining aspect of Sharma's legacy is her unyielding dedication to social activism. Through her efforts on social media, she has played a pivotal role in reuniting families separated by the 1947 Partition. Her work transcends borders, fostering friendship and hope across Pir Panjal and Jammu in POJK. Sharma's social media platforms, which promote the Poonchi/Pahari language and culture, have garnered admiration worldwide, including from Europe, the Middle East, Pakistan, and India. Her advocacy for her community addresses crucial issues and promotes solutions, often engaging with residents of Gilgit Baltistan, Jammu and Kashmir, and POJK.
Sharma's NGO, Parivartan (Change We Need), significantly impacts the lives of the underprivileged. The organization provides food, dry rations, hygiene kits, medications, masks, sanitizers, and sanitary napkins to thousands in need. Parivartan also offers educational programs, including after-school classes and computer literacy initiatives for underprivileged children. During the North-East Delhi riots in February 2020 and the subsequent lockdown, Parivartan played a crucial role in rehabilitating victims, providing food, and helping them access government aid.
Sharma's tireless efforts have earned her numerous accolades. Among them are the 12th National Women's Excellence Shakti Achievement Award (2019), the Sushma Swaraj Nari Gaurav Samman (2020), the Women Achievers Award by Fashion Lifestyle Magazine, the Lifetime Achievement Award for Contribution in the Field of Art and Culture (2020), and the Sahitya Shree title (2021). She was also a finalist in the Women of Dignity Mrs. India contest.
Romi Sharma's story is one of relentless dedication to the arts and social causes. Her multifaceted contributions as an actor, writer, producer, and activist continue to inspire and uplift countless lives. Through Parivartan and her various initiatives, Sharma exemplifies the profound impact one individual can have on society, championing the cause of the voiceless and fostering change with unwavering commitment