Dia Mirza, Sonu Sood to co-host UN's campaign Bharat Ke Mahaveer

The campaign has been launched by the United Nations in India and NITI Aayog, in partnership with Discovery channel.

While Dia Mirza is the UN Secretary-General’s SDG Advocate, Sood was recently conferred the ‘Special Humanitarian Action Award’ by the Punjab government for his humanitarian efforts during the Covid-19 crisis. 

Speaking about the initiative, Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI Aayog, said, "Throughout this global crisis, we have seen countless stories of individuals across the country who have gone beyond their call of duty. Even in the Aspirational Districts, despite facing greater developmental challenges, people came forward in a tremendous display of humanity."

He added, "We are happy to have come together with Discovery and the UN in India for this initiative to recognize these stories."

Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI Aayog

Renata Dessallien, UN Resident Coordinator in India said, "As COVID-19 continues to upend our lives, these unsung heroes are an inspiration and solace to us all. They remind us that it is only by working together, with kindness and compassion, that we can succeed – a truth that underpins the message of the United Nations, especially during this 75 th year since our founding.

"Through Bharat Ke Mahaveer, we wish to honour those individuals, who despite all odds, have gone out of their way to show extraordinary selfless kindness to help those in need."

Mirza said, “Over the past few months, India has shown the world that when people come together, they can overcome any adversity. Instead of self-interest, we have seen an outpouring of solidarity during the pandemic.

"People are banding together to spread love, compassion and positivity through their actions, thereby ensuring that the most vulnerable are not left behind. I am proud to call myself an Indian and proud to be part of this excellent initiative.”

"The recent time has been painful for humanity. During this time, some individuals with extraordinary sense of empathy for fellow citizens gave away everything they had,” said Sood, who is also the face of the campaign, along with Dia Mirza.