Athar Aamir Khan: From Kashmir’s Valleys to National Inspiration

Emerging from the serene valleys of Kashmir, Athar Aamir Khan is a young man of deep thought and quiet determination, who learned more from life than from the pages of books. Born in the small town of Anantnag, Athar perhaps never imagined he would one day become a household name across India.

Athar Aamir Khan became a national sensation and a role model for youth when he secured All India Rank 2 in the prestigious UPSC Civil Services Exam. Despite being eligible to choose any state cadre, Athar decided to serve his home state of Jammu and Kashmir, even as the region grappled with terrorism and unrest. His decision was seen as a mission to give back to his roots.

Athar’s journey is not just about becoming a top officer; it is also a story of love, heartbreak, resilience, and new beginnings. Currently, he serves as the District Magistrate (DM) of Kulgam, Jammu & Kashmir. Over the years, Athar has often been in the spotlight for various reasons, but this time, he is being lauded for an act that has touched the religious sentiments of millions across the country.

Welcoming Amarnath Yatra Pilgrims

With the commencement of the revered Amarnath Yatra, Athar, along with his colleagues and local residents, personally welcomed the first batch of Hindu pilgrims passing through Kulgam. He greeted them with garlands and bouquets, and many of those participating in the welcome were from the Muslim community, showcasing Kashmir’s spirit of harmony and hospitality. This gesture has earned Athar widespread praise.

Humble Beginnings and Academic Excellence

Born on September 5, 1992, in Anantnag, Athar comes from a modest family; his father was a teacher, fostering an environment of learning at home. Athar excelled academically from an early age, earning awards like “Best Young Scientist.” He pursued engineering at IIT Mandi but always aspired to serve the nation as an IAS officer. In 2015, he made his family proud by securing All India Rank 2 in the UPSC exam.

A Love Story in the Limelight

Athar’s life took another turn during his training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration, where he met Tina Dabi, the All India Rank 1 topper of the same year. Their friendship blossomed into love, and in 2018, the two IAS toppers from different religions married in a grand ceremony in Pahalgam, attended by dignitaries including then Vice President Venkaiah Naidu.

Their union was celebrated as an example of India’s diversity, but it also attracted controversy, with some calling it “love jihad” and others hailing it as an ideal marriage. However, the happiness was short-lived. Tina removed “Kashmiri Bahu” from her social media profile, and soon rumors of trouble surfaced. In 2021, the couple filed for divorce, and Tina remarried IAS officer Pradeep Gawande in 2022.

New Beginnings

Athar never publicly discussed his pain or made accusations. He continued to serve as an officer in Rajasthan before returning to Jammu & Kashmir, where he took on key roles such as CEO of Srinagar Smart City and Deputy Commissioner of Kulgam.

Fate smiled on Athar again when he met Dr. Mehreen Qazi, a doctor and social media influencer from Kashmir. Mehreen holds multiple medical diplomas from the UK and Denmark and works as a scientific officer in Delhi. The couple got engaged in 2022 and soon married. In 2024, they welcomed their son, Ehan, marking a new chapter of joy in their lives.

A True Public Servant

Athar’s recent gesture during the Amarnath Yatra reaffirmed his identity as not just an officer, but a true public servant. He is a young man who rose from the streets of Kashmir to the corridors of power in Delhi, believing in love and maintaining dignity even after heartbreak.

Athar Aamir Khan remains one of the most admired IAS officers in India, inspiring countless young people with his dedication, resilience, and commitment to harmony.