Kala Kuwait R. Ramesh Memorial Diaspora Award will be conferred to noted social activist of UAE Ashraf Thamarassery. He takes a leading role in transferring the bodies of deceased expatriates back to India, completing cumbersome legal formalities. He offers his services without considering the religion or nationality of the deceased. In a span of 14 years, he has transferred more than 5000 bodies to 35 different countries including India, Pakistan, Unites States of America, United Kingdom, Philippines etc. It is notable that Dr. Ashraf Thamarassery took a lead role in getting clearance to the body of famous Bollywood actress Sridevi, who expired in Dubai recently.
Dr. Ashraf is in UAE for the past 20 years doing own business. He is taking up these activities by entrusting his business to others to manage. Honoring his services he is bestowed with Pravasi Bjarathiya Samman. It is to be noted that his name was included in the list for Padmasree nominations last year.
The Award will be conferred to Ashraf Thamarassery on 11th May 2018 at "Tharangam 2018" mega event.