A child in Patna, once withdrawn and hesitant, now confidently addresses a school assembly, articulating their dream of becoming a teacher and improving their village's education. This profound shift—from silence to self-assured purpose—is the heart of what Diksha Foundation creates every day.
Founded in 2010 by a group of childhood friends from Bihar who were inspired to improve their home state's dismal 47% literacy rate, Diksha reimagined education for children and youth from socially and economically marginalized communities. Their primary mission extends far beyond textbooks and grades. They focus on the holistic development of every student, emphasizing the "three R's": Relationship, Responsibility, and Reverence for all life. Diksha believes education is a journey of self-discovery, self-love, and a change in one's habits and worldview regarding their community.
Meet the team
Diksha Foundation, on LinkedIn
Gautam Gauri, Executive Director
Mohita Katriar, Secretary
Arti Nair, Board Member
Diksha's work is rooted in three foundational pillars: Freedom, Joy, and Democracy. They cultivate an environment where Freedom encourages self-motivated growth, nurturing natural curiosity and problem-solving skills. They prioritize Joy, understanding that an energized, low-stress environment allows learning to happen organically and effortlessly. Finally, by embracing Democracy, they create an inclusive space that helps individuals understand and demand their human rights while fostering a deep sense of responsibility and peace.
Since its inception, the Foundation has supported children in pursuing their dreams and careers by integrating educational opportunity with overall personal development. This approach has empowered children from marginalized communities to gain decent opportunities to explore their potential. The success stories are often quiet but impactful: a student gaining the courage to question injustice, a young person volunteering to clean their community, or a shy child leading a group discussion. These moments demonstrate the real-world application of Diksha's values-based education.
Moving forward, Diksha Foundation is dedicated to scaling its unique model of holistic education. They continue to champion the idea that true education fosters not only literacy but also a deep sense of self-worth and civic responsibility, proving that when children are given a nurturing and democratic space, they will rise to meet their fullest potential.
