This verse from the Bhagwad Gita reminds us that we have a right to do our duty but no automatic right to the fruits from the doing. It is the idea that the action of planting a seed of change itself should motivate us much more than the ego-driven desire to harvest the reward. We must recognize potential where others see despair.

30 years ago, Rohini Nilekani started her journey in civic engagement. Her early experiences of being a social entrepreneur and having co-founded and co-funded organisations like Nagarik, Pratham Books, Akshara Foundation and Arghyam has guided the Philanthropy and its approach. Social change requires collective action, where citizens are inspired to actively become part of the solution. This people-first, society-first approach began to infuse all aspects of Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies.

Over the last 5 years, the Philanthropy has stretched beyond education and water, supporting issues of access to justice, gender equity, independent media, active citizenship, and the environment. Through our engagement with CSOs, it has become increasingly clear to us that strengthening Samaaj in all its facets is the foundation of a Strong Samaaj. We are committed to supporting the best ideas, individuals, and institutions that are working to resolve social issues from within society itself. We look for leaders who are passionate, committed, and of high integrity. Importantly, no matter which sector we work in or support, the single thread that unites it all is the desire to build a strong, resilient Samaaj.