Rajasthan

For the past twenty years, Paras Banjara, has dedicated his life to fighting discrimination, securing vital documents, and advocating for land ownership for Rajasthan's nomadic tribes. Through Olakhaan Trust, he aims to reclaim their lost identity and ensure their rightful place in society, giving nomadic voices the recognition and rights they deserve.

Conservation architect Urvashi Srivastava is saving Shekhawati's fading havelis and vibrant frescoes through her initiative, 'Shekhawati Virasat Abhiyan'.

Aakriti Srivastava, along with Romal and Suraj Singh, started Bahula Naturals to help Rajasthan’s pastoralists earn an income from their camels.

Padmaja Rathore leads Bagheera's Camp in Rajasthan's Godwar, championing wildlife protection & ecosystem restoration. She founded a sustainable community reserve focusing on education & collaboration.

Naseema Khatoon, born and raised in Chaturbhuj Sthan, a red-light district in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, experienced the harsh stigma faced by sex workers and their children first-hand. Determined to create change, she founded Jugnu in 2004, a publication that amplifies the voices of the marginalised. The first edition, a heartfelt four-page photocopy, was made with local support.

With a deep commitment to preserving Rajasthan's food traditions, Dipali Khandelwal is documenting and sharing lost recipes, giving these flavours new life while connecting generations through food.

Wildlife conservationist Sharvan Patel is using a WhatsApp group of 1,000 members, each contributing Rs 365 annually, to restore habitats, protect endangered species, and improve farming practices in Rajasthan.

Padmaja Rathore leads Bagheera's Camp in Rajasthan's Godwar, championing wildlife protection and ecosystem restoration. Inspired by her parents, she founded a sustainable community reserve focusing on education and collaboration. Her initiatives, like Rewilding Jawai, empower locals and safeguard endangered species, fostering a harmonious relationship between nature and humanity.

These incredible individuals are making Indian sports more inclusive, accessible, and empowering.

After losing her husband and facing financial hardship, Jodhpur’s Nirmala Shekhawat transformed her struggle into ‘Marwadi Manwar’, a thriving business bringing the traditional flavours of Rajasthan to the world.