CORE TEAM MEMBERS
DR RAVI K DHAR
Dr Ravi K Dhar is the Director of a leading management institute in Delhi. He has published a novel, a collection of poems and a book of mystical aphorisms, apart from two books on management and communication. He is a proponent and practitioner of Satvic Living. His mission is to engineer integral yogic transformation in those who seek his guidance.
DR. ANIL K. BAMEZAI
Dr. Anil K. Bamezai is currently a Professor of Biology and Director of the Graduate program in Biology at Villanova University USA. He has over 30 years of research and teaching experience in immunology. He has mentored over 100 undergraduate and graduate students in his research laboratory during his academic career. His laboratory focuses on finding cure for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) using animal models. Dr. Bamezai holds a B.S. in Zoology and Chemistry from Udhampur Degree College associated with Jammu University. He received M.S. in Chemistry (Organic) from Jammu University in 1981. He completed his Ph.D. in the department of Biochemistry at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi in 1987. His curiosity led him to explore higher education opportunities across the Atlantic Ocean. Dr. Bamezai moved to Boston, USA for his postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard Medical School where he pursued research and scholarship in the field of immunology. He continued his scholarship as Instructor of Pathology Harvard Medical School’s associated Dana Farber Cancer Institute. He received his first faculty position at University of Georgia Athens in 1996. Dr. Bamezai moved to the greater Philadelphia area to join Villanova University as Assistant Professor in Biology in 2002 and continues as tenured Professor and Director of Graduate Program in Biology. In addition to scholarship and teaching, Dr. Bamezai is engaged in service to his institution and profession. He is the past-President of VU Chapter for Sigma Xi, a research organization in USA; he has served as a member of The American Association of Immunologists (AAI) Education Committee. He is an associate editor for Frontiers in Immunology -T cell Biology section and Guest Associate Editor for Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology – Signaling section. Dr. Bamezai brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, especially in the mentorship arena, to KakIni Foundation. In this role, he serves as a guiding light for students hailing from economically weaker sections and strife-torn regions of India, illuminating their path towards their dreams. With Dr. Bamezai on board, the journey towards quality education for aspiring candidates, especially Kashmiri Pandit boys and girls with their sights set on higher education looks brighter than ever. From the verdant valleys of Jammu, through academic powerhouse of Boston to the hallowed halls of Villanova University, Anil Bamezai’s journey is the testament to power of knowledge, the importance of mentorship and limitless potential of human curiosity. As we stride forward into the future, we’re grateful to have him as part of our story, guiding us towards a brighter tomorrow.
SUNIL RAINA RAJANAKA
In the towering heights of the Himalayas, where the air is still threaded with the echoes of ancient wisdom, a young man named Sunil Raina Rajanaka embarked on a journey. A journey that began amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Kashmir, leading him not just towards professional success but also on a profound spiritual quest.
Sunil, armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, stepped into the fast-paced corporate world, ascending to the influential position in the leading media house. Yet, amidst the clamour of corporate success, he heard the subtle call of his ancestral land and its profound spiritual legacy. He answered this call by delving deeply into the study of Kashmir Shaivism and followed Swami Lakshmanjoo whose teachings on Kashmiri Shaivism fuelled him to undertake further study of the Shaiva scriptures under the able guidance of revered scholar, Sh. Motilal Pandit.
However, Sunil’s engagement with Shaivism extended beyond personal enlightenment. He committed himself to share this treasure of wisdom with the world, a passion reflected during his tenure as the Editor-in-Chief of ‘Naad’ magazine. His efforts illuminated the spiritual tradition of Kashmir Shaivism, inviting renewed interest and appreciation.
Simultaneously, Sunil emerged as a unifying force within the Kashmiri Pandit community. His thoughtful organization of socio-cultural programs created a sense of shared identity and cohesion. His role as a leader shone brightly during the Covid crisis, where he tirelessly worked to raise awareness and protect his community.
Sunil’s commitment to culture and community takes many forms. An artist at heart, he has honed the art of playing the Santoor, a traditional Kashmiri musical instrument. A gifted writer, his series ‘Bhairava Vimarsh’ brings to light the mystical aspects of Bhairava’s and Kashmir Shaivism. An explorer, he has meticulously documented over 150 temples and shrines in the Kashmir Valley, creating an enduring legacy for future generations.
Sunil’s bond with nature is perhaps one of his most defining attributes. Each year, he embarks on mountain treks, seeking solace and inspiration amidst the wilderness. In the majesty of nature, he finds a reflection of the cultural richness he strives to preserve and promote.
Today, as a proud part of Kakini, Sunil Raina Rajanaka continues his mission of documenting temples in Kashmir. His journey is a testament to the power of passion, commitment, and connection to one’s roots. As we look towards the future, his contributions guide us, reminding us of our shared heritage and the enduring wisdom of our ancestors. As we walk together on this path, we celebrate the journey so far and eagerly anticipate the new discoveries that lie ahead.
PARTNERS & COLLABORATORS
