कृतज्ञ: Gratitude

International Women’s Day is often symbolic, but KAASH Foundation has consistently strived to make it meaningful and impactful. Rooted in respect, empowerment, and inclusivity, the Foundation’s annual Kritagya (Gratitude) initiative reflects a deep commitment to women from underrepresented communities. The 2025 celebration, held on 8^th March 2025 at Vikramgad, marked the fifth consecutive year of Kritagya and stood out for its holistic local-to-global approach. Partnering with Arts, Commerce & Science College, Onde, Vikramgad, Palghar District and collaborating internationally with The WOW Initiative (Czech Republic), the event successfully bridged tribal, rural, urban, and global perspectives. Over 250 participants attended the four-hour celebration, structured into three engaging segments.

Segment 1: An Energetic and Joyful Beginning

The event opened with high-energy games and team-building activities designed to uplift participants both mentally and physically. Students, faculty members, and the KAASH Foundation team enthusiastically participated, creating an atmosphere of joy, inclusivity, and connection. The games encouraged collaboration, laughter, and camaraderie, setting a positive and vibrant tone for the day while reminding everyone of the importance of shared happiness and collective participation.

Segment 2: Learning, Recognition, and Cross-Border Inspiration

The second segment blended learning, experience-sharing, and recognition. A health awareness session led by Dr. Renuka Vyas, Joint Director (Health), KAASH Foundation, focused on well-being for young girls and their parents. Mrs. Vijayalakshmi Jadhav, Founder-Trustee, KAASH Foundation, shared insights from her extensive journey in education, while Ms. Titiksha Kabra, Youth Brigade Member, KAASH Foundation, inspired students by narrating her personal journey with the Foundation.

The event was honoured by the presence of college leadership, including Trustee Mr. Milind Patil and Principal Dr. B. B. Pandagale, who appreciated KAASH Foundation’s dedication and outreach to tribal regions. Dr. Avkash Jadhav, Founder-Trustee, KAASH Foundation, reaffirmed the Foundation’s long-term commitment to holistic education and continuous support for tribal students. Winners of the games were felicitated, and mothers of students were specially honoured for their resilience and unwavering support of their daughters’ education.

A key highlight was the unveiling of the 20^th volume of KAASH Konnect, the Foundation’s quarterly journal, recognizing the efforts of the editorial, reporting, and design teams who have documented KAASH’s journey over five years.

This segment also featured an international online session with The WOW Initiative from the Czech Republic. Ms. Ramaa Subramaniam, Founder-Member of The WOW Initiative and a close friend of KAASH Foundation’s Founder-Trustee, Dr. Avkash Jadhav, enthusiastically joined the 5^th Year of the Kritagya Event in India, adding great value to this session. The session began with Ms. Pratibha Khatreja, a founding member of The WOW Initiative, who shared her journey of overcoming challenges with determination and confidence. She spoke in an engaging manner, capturing the audience’s attention. Her words resonated deeply, and participants expressed their appreciation through applause and cheers. She also played a short video about her life’s journey, making her message even more impactful.

Ms. Hana Dutta, a Czech citizen, delighted everyone by speaking fluent Hindi. Her warm and confident presence left a lasting impression on the audience. Ms. Jalpa Bhanushali, another member, recited a heartfelt poem dedicated to all women, adding an emotional touch to the session. The event concluded with Ms. Sushmita Sri, a representative of The WOW Initiative India Chapter, who shared her insights and experiences.

Segment 3: Empowerment Through Thoughtful Giving

The final segment focused on addressing practical needs. KAASH Foundation distributed 200 thermos steel water bottles to tribal girl students—responding directly to their request, as many walk long distances to college in extreme weather conditions. Female faculty members and parents received handbags to support their daily routines, while chocolates and sweets added a celebratory touch. The distribution was efficiently coordinated by the KAASH team and Youth Brigade members, who also documented the event.

Kritagya 2025 was more than a celebration—it was a reaffirmation of KAASH Foundation’s mission to empower women through gratitude, learning, and action. By connecting grassroots communities with global voices, the initiative continues to evolve into a meaningful movement. As KAASH moves forward, it remains committed to creating inclusive opportunities and ensuring that no woman is left behind—because true empowerment is not just recognition, but lasting change.