Vignettes, diaries, videos, conversations: every entry in this section brings you up-close with us and our work
Our three operating units — Field Institutions, Grants and Universities — function in an integrated manner to fuel the Foundation’s motto of contributing towards a just, equitable, humane and sustainable society. We bring you a collection of narratives from all three units, straight from our people and partners across India. These stories, in the form of videos, animation, interviews and journals, showcase the journey and the Foundation in its various fields of work.
Fruits of Labour: A Success Story in Livelihoods
At nearly 80, when most people his age are slowing down, Mahangu Kumhar chose to begin again.
Dignity and Hope for Bengaluru’s Homeless
People sleeping under flyovers and bridges; families sitting in huddles on footpaths; the aged and the infirm begging for money at traffic signals, railway stations and bus depots — these are common sights in Indian metros.
Nakshatragalu EP 22 | Ramanna, Magadi, Ramnagara | Umashankar Periodi
Explore how Ramanna helped students confidently converse in English within three months and how it drew more students to his school.
Nakshatragalu EP 21 | Sudha G, Naubad, Bidar | Umashankar Periodi
Sudha G has worked across three very different schools, each shaping her approach as an educator in unique ways.
Nakshatragalu EP 20 | Jayashree Hiremath, Kembavi, Yadgir | Umashankar Periodi
Jayashree, widely recognised for her Nali Kali classes in Yadgir, Karnataka, places strong emphasis on understanding children, building meaningful relationships with them, and then guiding their learning.
Learning Beyond Classrooms
Explore how Lokesh Manikanta (BA in Humanities, 2020-23) brings joy and purpose to learning for Grade V students from low-income communities.
What Happens When Communities Own their Forests?
This film follows communities in southern Chhattisgarh as they strengthen local self-governance through Community Forest Rights.
Nakshatragalu EP 19 | Gavikumar Kasturi, Koppal | Umashankar Periodi
Explore how Gavikumar was able to develop all the necessary facilities, fight caste barriers and make his school more attractive and welcoming for students, despite the school lacking basic amenities.
Village Health Nutrition and Sanitation Day: Delivering Health at the Last Mile
How a well-run VHSND can transform rural health through education and prevention.
Nakshatragalu EP 18 | Sriyamsh, Kamatagi, Hungunda Taluk | Umashankar Periodi
From setting up an excellent library in his school to organising unique programmes like stargazing, demonstration of the election process, and “homework with parents” to involve both parents and community members, listen to Sriyamsh Kolar’s story.
Nakshatragalu EP 17 | Anand Chinnappa, Hadagali Thanda, Vijayapura| Umashankar Periodi
Explore the creative methods introduced by Anand in school to attract students and improve their learning. From dressing as a bear dancer to learning his students’ language to make communication smooth with his students, Anand’s journey of 20 years is inspiring.
Nakshatragalu EP 16 | Rajeshwari Kalmani, Bidar | Umashankar Periodi
A teacher at Chawagi Higher Primary School in Bidar, Rajeshwari was determined to transform the school. She taught creatively, started a library, deve
