Anurag Chauhan, Founder-Humans for Humanity, is a prominent social activist and changemaker, who has dedicated his life to improving the well-being of marginalised communities across India.
Anurag Chauhan embarked on his social work journey at the age of 14, driven by his deep commitment to addressing key social issues at a young age. With time, he started his own initiative Humans for Humanity that has been making a remarkable impact on society till date, particularly in the areas of menstrual hygiene, sanitation, and public health education. His leadership has inspired nationwide initiatives that have broken long-standing taboos and empowered countless individuals, particularly women, to live healthier and more dignified lives.
THE WASH INITIATIVE
One of the most significant campaigns of Humans for Humanity is the WASH Project (Women Sanitation and Hygiene), which has contributed greatly to improving menstrual hygiene management across India. Through workshops, awareness drives, and resource distribution, the project has reached over 4.5 million women in rural and urban areas across seven states. The project emphasises education, sustainable menstrual hygiene practices, and the dismantling of myths, while creating an open platform for discussing periods.
“What sets the WASH Project apart is its inclusivity. While the primary focus of WASH is on women, my team has also recognised the importance of engaging men and transgender individuals in the conversation about menstrual hygiene.
Campaigns within the project are specifically designed to reach transgender men and men in general, emphasising that periods are not solely a women’s issue,” states Chauhan who believes that involving men in these discussions helps to normalise menstruation as a natural biological process, reduces stigma, and ensures they support women in their communities with empathy and understanding.
SHAPING FUTURE GENERATIONS
School workshops on educating young boys about menstruation early on are also an integral part of the WASH
Project. By teaching boys to understand and respect the subject, Chauhan is shaping a future generation that will
foster equality and openness in matters related to women’s health. “By actively involving boys and men, the project
seeks to create a society where menstruation is viewed without prejudice, fostering a culture of support
rather than shame. In these workshops, men learn how menstruation affects women’s health, emotions, and daily
lives, creating a holistic awareness that aids in breaking down stereotypes,” he tells.
Chauhan’s impact is not limited to health and sanitation. His efforts have attracted attention from prestigious
academic institutions globally. Researchers from Ivy League universities have conducted extensive studies on the WASH Project, analysing its effectiveness in addressing menstrual hygiene challenges in underserved areas. The research findings have been shared in international academic forums, further validating the significant role Humans for Humanity plays in public health and social reform.
“We at Humans for Humanity have joined hands to shelter the unsheltered, education to the uneducated, medicate to the unmedicated and humanize the once denied humanity”
RAISING AWARENESS ON MENSTRUAL HYGIENE
A respected speaker and educator,Chauhan is often invited by renowned universities in India and abroad to deliver lectures on hygiene. His talks on menstrual hygiene, sustainable development, and grassroots activism have
inspired students and faculty alike, emphasising the importance of community-driven solutions to social issues. He has also been invited to speak on various occasion at institutions such as Delhi University, IIT Gandhinagar, Princeton University, Stockholm University, Indian School of Business, National Institute of Fashion Technology, etc.
Through its internship program that has attracted interns from 17 countries, Humans for Humanity reaches a global audience. The international interns bring fresh perspectives to the organisation’s work, contributing to its success
while learning about the specific challenges faced by the local communities. Their involvement enhances the cultural exchange within the organisation, enriching its approach to problem-solving and expanding the scope of its impact.
BEYOND HEALTH CAMPAIGNS
Chauhan has made strides in promoting employment generation through programs that uplift artisans and weavers, providing them platforms to showcase their traditional crafts. By working with the world’s largest street artist
community in Kathputli Colony, he has helped marginalise groups to preserve their skills while securing global recognition for their art. His efforts in this space have generated sustainable employment opportunities, allowing these communities to achieve financial independence and preserve their cultural heritage.
Chauhan’s broader work with the Breathing Arts initiative integrates preserving and promoting arts, allowing individuals to express their experiences through creative means. This initiative fosters emotional resilience and personal growth, further expanding the scope of Humans for Humanity’s impact on community well-being.
LOOKING FORWARD
Anurag Chauhan’s leadership has widely been recognised through numerous awards. He has earned the titles of Padman and Padwarrior acknowledging his significant contributions to menstrual hygiene awareness and advocacy.
These accolades highlight the transformative power of his work and its lasting influence on the lives of millions.
“| envision an India free of menstrual hygiene taboos, where every individual has access to the knowledge and resources necessary for proper menstrual health management. My holistic approach combining education,
sustainability, and empowerment continues to pave the way for sustainable social change, transforming communities and breaking barriers that have existed for generations,” he concludes.
Through his leadership and Humans for Humanity, Chauhan has not only improved the health and livelihoods of millions but created a model for compassionate, inclusive activism. His work is a powerful reminder of how grassroots movements, supported by global collaboration, can drive large-scale social transformation, positively impacting future generations.
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS
- Mahatma Puraskar (2021)
- International Women Empowerment Award from UNICEF and the
Ministry of Women and Child Development - Karamveer Chakra and Global Fellowship by the United Nations
