Back in 1984, a quest for stories untold led to the foundation of Kali for Women, an NGO whose legacy now lives on through Zubaan Trust. Registered in Delhi since 2003, Zubaan is more than just a publisher—it is a chronicler, catalyst, and supporter of the women’s movement across South Asia. Driven by a commitment to broaden feminist knowledge, Zubaan has consistently highlighted experiences that mainstream discourse often overlooks: those of women, queer, trans, Dalit, Bahujan, Adivasi, tribal, Northeast India, and religious minority communities.
In recent years, Zubaan has evolved, bringing a sharper focus to research and ground-level activism. From chronicling the movement through unique initiatives like "Poster Women," to leading projects with unions, collectives, and activists, the organisation connects the dots between knowledge creation and cultural action. Zubaan works closely with partners, from local unions and grassroots activists to academic institutions, reflecting its belief that powerful stories shape lasting change.
What sets Zubaan apart is its attention to social exclusion: both in content and practice. As an equal-opportunity employer, the trust actively addresses issues of representation, aiming to diversify both its publications and workforce. This is visible in its hiring policies and constant engagement with marginalised voices.
Today, Zubaan stands at the intersection of research, publishing, and activism, always looking for ways to link feminist perspectives to on-the-ground impact. Whether producing books, managing projects, or initiating cross-sectoral partnerships, Zubaan’s energy is invested in sharing knowledge, sparking dialogue, and building connections that strengthen the women’s movement in South Asia and beyond.