Our Team Change Leader Gaurav had a difficult childhood. Domestic violence was common at home and he had to grow up way too early to defend his mother and siblings from his father’s anger. Having to deal with so much at home left him no time or opportunities to pursue his passions. One day, his mother decided enough was enough—she moved out of the violent setting to her sister’s home. 

With more time on his hands, Gaurav was able to pursue his interest in mehendi (henna artwork). He got teased initially but having attended Breakthrough’s Youth Resource Centre in Dabua Colony, he was better informed about gender equality and stereotypes. Instead of entertaining these taunts, he began educating people and hosting mehendi workshops for men and women. His lived experience of violence also pushed him to intervene in cases of domestic violence and participate in safety audits.

Today, Gaurav is redefining the idea of masculinity to one that is not aggressive or impassive, with his creativity, positivity and passion.