Acclaimed author, artist, and filmmaker on a constant mission to make a difference
Dubai-based Jani Viswanath Jagtiani is a woman of many talents. A humanitarian, artist, author, filmmaker, PhD holder, archer, and amateur flier, she carries a deep passion for philanthropy.
Daughter of renowned educationist and diplomat Dr. T.K. Viswanath and wife of Home Centre founder Jonathan Jagtiani, she has dedicated her life to serving others, reported gulfnews.com.
Despite her many accomplishments, Jani finds the greatest fulfillment in helping those in need
Born in Coimbatore, India, and raised in Kabul, Afghanistan, Jani’s diverse upbringing has given her a unique perspective on life. Fluent in six languages, her true language is compassion. Through Healing Lives, the humanitarian foundation she established 12 years ago, Jani has positively impacted countless lives across multiple countries.
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Her initiatives include supporting education, healthcare, disaster relief, and rural development
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One of her most impactful projects was mentoring and funding the education of nine underprivileged youths in Kenya, who are now qualified doctors serving their communities
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She has also provided scholarships for nurses in India and Bangladesh, built open-air schools for over 3,000 children, and supported blind football tournaments
A humanitarian with a creative soul
Jani’s generosity extends beyond philanthropy. A celebrated artist, she has created over 146 paintings, using a unique palette knife technique she developed as a child.
Her solo exhibitions have been showcased at Bentley Showroom, World Art Dubai, and the World Trade Centre.
Her passion for storytelling led her to become a filmmaker, supporting independent directors in creating meaningful cinema.
She has produced four award-winning films, including Xhoixobhote Dhemalite, JWLWI (Boro/Assamese), Gorai Phakri (Wild Swans), and Andro Dreams. Her latest film, Dawn After Midnight, was recently shot in Manipur.
Jani believes that kindness and generosity define true success. In her book Echoes of Light, she writes, “The dire need of the moment is not how rich or famous you are, but how compassionate your actions are toward the weak, poor, and broken sections of society.”
Balancing passion and purpose
Despite her extensive philanthropic work, Jani makes time for herself, whether it’s painting, writing, archery, or flying lessons. She credits archery with sharpening her focus and flying with fueling her adventurous spirit.
“At Healing Lives, we are fortunate to have the support of hundreds of volunteers wherever we go,” she says, believing that good deeds have a way of spreading positivity. Her story is proof that true fulfillment comes from lifting others up—one life at a time.
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