Danish Ali/Jammu

They say success is not just about what one achieves, but about the hurdles one overcomes along the way. This thought resonates powerfully with the life story of Ghulam Nabi Tantray — an educationist, sports enthusiast, and social worker.

Tantray’s upbringing was rooted in simplicity, honesty, and service. After completing his primary education in Ayathmulla and higher secondary schooling in Bandipora, he went on to earn a degree in humanities from Sopore.

Later, he pursued a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from the University of Kashmir, paving the way for his professional journey.

Ghulam Nabi Tantray ((extreme right) receiving an award

At the age of 26, Tantray started working as a government contractor, a profession he continued until 2003. But as he often recalls, something inside him was always drawn towards education and youth development.

Answering that inner calling, he set up a B.Ed. College in Bandipora — a turning point in his life and the lives of many young students in the region.

The college didn’t just offer degrees; it provided direction to hundreds of students from North Kashmir and beyond, helping them acquire skills and confidence to become self-reliant.

Nabi was born in a modest family and he rose from the remote village of Ajar in Bandipora to become a respected name in the educational and social landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.

Believing in holistic development, Tantray also invested his energy in sports. In 2014, he was part of the Indian martial arts team that represented the country in an international event in Iran.

Ghulam Nabi Tantray in his office

His passion saw him take up leadership roles, including Senior Vice President of the Kickboxing Federation of India and State Vice President of the Rugby Association of J&K.

He organized several national-level sports events in Bandipora and even arranged accommodations for outstation players. It was under his mentorship that young Tajamul Islam, now a global name in kickboxing, began her journey.

In 2015, Tantray leaped forward by establishing Doon International School in Chowadhi, Jammu. What started as a dream to provide modern education rooted in Indian ethos has today grown into one of the top educational institutions in the region.

As Chairman, Tantray ensures that the school offers more than just academics. From inclusive classrooms and a focus on mental well-being to a pollution-free environment and innovative learning spaces, Doon International School reflects his vision of shaping compassionate and capable citizens.

“We wanted to build not just a school, but a place where excellence and values go hand in hand,” Tantray told Awaz-The Voice.

Ghulam Nabi Tantray receiving an award

Over the years, Tantray’s work has received widespread appreciation. He has been honoured with Rashtriya Gaurav Award, International Education and Leadership Award, and Cyber MediaGlobal Achievers Award, presented by the Indian Ambassador to the UAE.

He also received recognition from former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for his contribution to education in J&K.

In 2023, he was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate in Literature by the University of South America — a rare recognition that acknowledges his work in the fields of education and social service.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Tantray came forward to support the district administration in Bandipora, providing essential aid to the underprivileged. He also played a vital role in relief work during the devastating floods in Kashmir.

Despite the accolades, Tantray remains deeply connected to his roots. He continues to support families in need in his native village Ajar, mentor youth from remote areas, and innovate within the education sector through DIS Jammu.

His life is more than just a personal success story. It’s a reflection of how belief, purpose, and action — when combined — can bring about meaningful change in society.

As Jammu and Kashmir strive to build a better future through education and opportunity, the journey of Ghulam Nabi Tantray stands as a shining example of how one individual can become a force of transformation.

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In every student who dares to dream, in every teacher who stands firm, and in every child who walks into Doon International School with hope — there echoes the spirit of Ghulam Nabi Tantray.