EVERY WOMAN DESERVES THE CHANCE
to create a better life for herself and her family.
Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Bengaluru, Mauna Dhwani Foundation is a non-partisan, secular, voluntary organization registered under Section 8 of the Companies Act.
THROUGH TRAINING, SUPPORT, AND ACCESS TO MARKETS,
we’re helping women weavers rediscover their skills and build sustainable businesses.
IN THE QUIET VILLAGES OF MAYURBHANJ,
the once-familiar rhythm of handlooms had faded, leaving behind empty workshops and silent dreams.
OUR MISSION
To revive the handloom industry in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district,
empowering tribal women and fostering sustainable rural development.
At Mauna Dhwani Foundation, we work with the tribal women of Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district to rediscover their cultural identity and heritage, weaving a future where financial independence and sustainable development flourish. Our work goes beyond the loom, with literacy and leadership programs, we women of the region reclaim their voices, strengthening both their communities and the fabric of a shared legacy.
Join us in celebrating the artistry of the handloom and the strength of these incredible women. Together, we can weave a tapestry of change that will last for generations.
KEY FIGURES
19
Training and Production Centres
26
Tanta Sathi leaders
800
Women impacted
60+
Literacy programs for women weavers
62
Mayurbhanj villages covered
OUR FOCUS
WHY WE EXIST
This serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of this crisis, leaving countless artisans and craftspeople without a means to sustain themselves. The loss of these skills not only threatens the livelihoods of individuals but also erodes India’s rich cultural heritage.
SOURCE: WORLD BANK3,00,000
Weavers have committed suicide since 1995
Behind every number is a human being with dreams, aspirations, and the right to a dignified life
WHY WE EXIST
The highest numbers of unreported cases of abuse come from economically and socially marginalized communities. Fear, stigma, and lack of support prevent them from seeking help, perpetuating a cycle of violence and oppression.
SOURCE: WORLD BANKVulnerable individuals
Are often silenced and denied justice
Behind every number is a human being with dreams, aspirations, and the right to a dignified life
WHY WE EXIST
A horrifying statistic that underscores the urgent need to address gender-based violence. Women in rural areas face disproportionate risks due to patriarchal norms, limited access to justice, and a lack of awareness about their rights.
SOURCE: WORLD BANK1 in 3
Women in rural India have been sexually or physically abused
Behind every number is a human being with dreams, aspirations, and the right to a dignified life
WHY WE EXIST
They struggle to access basic necessities like food, clean water, and healthcare. This stark reality highlights the deep-rooted inequality between rural and urban India.
SOURCE: WORLD BANK80%
of India’s poor live in rural areas
Behind every number is a human being with dreams, aspirations, and the right to a dignified life
These statistics areA CALL TO ACTION
OUR METHODOLOGY
Deep listening
We begin by immersing ourselves in the community, not just studying data, but truly understanding their history, culture, dreams, and challenges. We believe in the power of listening to their stories and aspirations.
OUR METHODOLOGY
Collaborative Vision
Together with the community, we identify the areas that need attention. It’s their vision that guides our path forward.
OUR METHODOLOGY
Co-Creating Solutions
We work side-by-side with the community, designing solutions that are sustainable, culturally relevant, and owned by the people themselves.
OUR METHODOLOGY
Small Steps, Big Impact
We test our ideas with a pilot group, learning and adapting along the way, ensuring our solutions truly work for the community.
OUR METHODOLOGY
Expanding the Horizon
As we see positive results, we expand our efforts, bringing the benefits to a wider reach within the community.
OUR METHODOLOGY
Nurturing Leadership
We provide continuous support and mentorship, empowering local leaders to take charge. Our goal is to see the community thrive independently, long after we’ve moved on.
OUR BELIEF
We dream of an India where
EVERY VILLAGE IS VIBRANT, EVERY INDIVIDUAL EMPOWERED
We envision a harmonious blend of progress and tradition, where rural communities thrive economically while preserving their unique cultural heritage. We champion the potential of marginalized groups, providing them with the tools and support to break free from the cycle of poverty. Together, we’ll forge a path towards a brighter, more equitable future for all.
