The All India Bazm-e-Rehmat-e-Alam has named Deepak Kumar, popularly known as ‘Muhammad’ Deepak, as the recipient of the Rehmat-e-Alam Peace Award 2026 for his efforts in fostering communal harmony. The award will be presented during Milad-un-Nabi celebrations, recognising his symbolic gesture of solidarity that resonated widely as a message of unity and compassion.
Published Date – 16 August 2026, 10:29 PM

Hyderabad: The All India Bazm-e-Rehmat-e-Alam has announced the conferment of the Rehmat-e-Alam Peace Award 2026 on Deepak Kumar, popularly known as Muhammad Deepak, in recognition of his efforts in promoting communal harmony and strengthening the message of peace and brotherhood.
The award will be presented during programmes organised to mark Milad-un-Nabi, the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad.
Deepak Kumar, a resident of Kotdwar in Uttarakhand, came into the spotlight after he stood up in support of an elderly Muslim shopkeeper during a tense situation. His gesture of solidarity, where he identified himself as “Muhammad Deepak”, was widely discussed as a symbol of communal unity and respect for fellow citizens.
The organisers said the award recognises individuals who work towards maintaining social harmony, encouraging mutual respect among communities and upholding the values of humanity. They said Deepak’s action reflected the spirit of compassion and peaceful coexistence, which are central to the teachings of Islam and the broader message of humanity.
