Bengaluru, January 2026: The Abhaya Bravery Award 2026, instituted by Team Abhaya, returns with renewed purpose to recognise individuals who work selflessly towards social change without seeking recognition or reward. The award honours courage, commitment, and sustained service to society, with a strong emphasis on justice, dignity, and empowerment.
For the 2026 edition, Ms Manika Sharma, a distinguished educationist and mentor, has been selected as the Face of the Abhaya Bravery Award, acknowledging her lifelong contribution to education, parenting awareness, and holistic development of children and women.
Abhaya Bravery Award: Saluting quiet courage
The Abhaya Bravery Award was conceptualised to honour citizens who work relentlessly for social causes — often behind the scenes — without expecting fame, financial gain, or public applause. After a successful first edition, the 2026 awards continue this tradition by celebrating individuals whose work brings lasting impact to communities.
The award is part of Team Abhaya, an apolitical initiative founded by Payel Sengupta, also the founder of the Bangalore Sports Lovers Association. The initiative stands firmly for a safer and more just society, especially for women, while recognising the role of both men and women in driving meaningful change.
Ms Manika Sharma: Face of Abhaya Bravery Award 2026
Ms Manika Sharma’s selection as the face of the Abhaya Bravery Award 2026 reflects her deep-rooted commitment to education and emotional wellbeing. Raised in a joint family, she credits her upbringing for shaping her values of observation, adaptability, and balance. Her mother’s disciplined approach to learning and her father’s unwavering work ethic laid the foundation for her life’s philosophy.
Academically, Ms Sharma holds a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from Jammu University, a Master’s degree in Commerce from Himachal University, and an MBA from Texas, USA. Though she never initially planned a career in education, her journey into the field began organically after becoming a parent, as she explored learning philosophies, neuroscience, and child development.
A holistic approach to education and parenting
Ms Sharma’s work today focuses on early childhood education (below six years of age) — a stage she believes forms the core of emotional, cognitive, and social development. Her approach blends scientific understanding with holistic practices, addressing emotional wellbeing, environmental influence, and inner awareness.
Since 2003, meditation has played a pivotal role in her personal and professional life. A Heartfulness meditation trainer since 2015, she has guided many women in building emotional balance, clarity, and resilience. Through this work, she has consistently supported women in navigating life’s challenges with confidence and inner strength.
Redefining women empowerment
Speaking on empowerment, Ms Sharma emphasises that financial independence alone does not define true empowerment. According to her, emotional clarity, self-trust, and inner balance are equally vital.
“When women are emotionally centred, they make stronger choices — for themselves, their families, and society,” she believes. This philosophy aligns closely with the spirit of the Abhaya Bravery Award, which recognises courage not just in action, but also in awareness and responsibility.
Honouring those who serve without expectation
The Abhaya Bravery Award 2026 stands as a tribute to individuals like Manika Sharma, whose work quietly shapes futures and strengthens society. By recognising such contributions, Team Abhaya continues to inspire citizens to act with courage, compassion, and integrity — proving that meaningful change often begins without applause.
