Recognition & Awards
Know obout our achievements.
The inaugural Swami Agnivesh memorial award was announced by the Hindus for Human Rights, (USA) organization during their annual virtual holiday gala “Celebration of Hope” on December 18, 2021. Dhanak, a not-for-profit organization led by survivors of natal family violence and supported by individuals who believe in its cause, has made history by being the first-ever organization to receive this prestigious award for its impactful work.
Dhanak advocates for an individual’s right to exercise their constitutional and human right to choose their partner, whether in marriage or to be in a relationship without having to fear any ill consequences. Founded by a few interfaith couples, Dhanak began as a support group in 2004. It was registered in 2012 under the Societies Registration Act.
Dhanak has evolved organically, and over the years it has emerged as a champion organization working for an individual’s Right to Choose in matters of Marriage or Relationships, against Religious Conversion for the sake of marriage, against Honour-Based Crimes, and against Forced Marriages in India. Dhanak is a unique organization in India that addresses a wide range of challenges faced by survivors from various religious, caste, and gender backgrounds. It also supports individuals asserting their legal rights, working to protect their autonomy in alignment with national laws.
Over the years, Dhanak has positively impacted the lives of over 7000 individuals. Its expertise has evolved through real-life experiences of individuals and couples navigating challenges with their personal value systems, societal stereotypes, family dynamics, and legal systems.
Asif Iqbal, co-founder, and Shailaja Rao, a Dhanak member, were present at the virtual event to accept the prestigious award. They expressed their gratitude and reaffirmed their shared vision of working towards achieving a more pluralistic society. Two inter-caste couples and an interfaith couple who received support and guidance from Dhanak were showcased in the event.
Dear friends – We are overjoyed and honoured to share with you that Dhanak has been awarded the Mahatma Award 2020 for Human Rights and Equality. The Mahatma Award recognizes change-makers across the globe making a social impact and leading the way to a sustainable future. We give our heartfelt thanks to social entrepreneur and philanthropist Amit Sachdeva and others at Mahatma Award for this prestigious recognition.
On March 21, 2019, Dhanak received the Babu Miyan Bandwale National Integration and Communal Harmony Award from Dr. Baba Adhav, Senior Socialist and Activist.
