Shobha Gasti

Shobha Gasti is based in Belgaum in the Indian state of Karnataka. She founded Mahila Abhivrudhi Mattu Samrakshana Samasthe (MASS) in 1997. It helps former Devadasi women in 360 villages in Karnataka to move forward in their lives.[1][2] Having begun with 2,500 members, by 2014 it had 3,600 participants.[2] MASS succeeded in securing pensions for former Devadasis who were over 45 years old.[3] Gasti also promotes children's rights, working with groups such as Child Rights and You (CRY).[4]

Man presents award to woman
Gasti receives the Nari Shakti Puraskar from Ram Nath Kovind

In recognition of her work, Gasti was given the 2021 Nari Shakti Puraskar by President Ram Nath Kovind in 2022.[5]

References
  1. "Shobha Gasti and Nivruti Rai from Karnataka honoured by the President". Hindustan Times. 9 March 2022. Archived from the original on 19 March 2022. Retrieved 21 April 2022.
  2. Boruah, Maitreyee (16 February 2014). "NGOs hail SC directive to stop Devadasi system – Times of India". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 5 October 2015. Retrieved 21 April 2022.
  3. "Elusive pension pushes devadasis into distress". The Times of India. 6 May 2014. Archived from the original on 30 September 2015. Retrieved 21 April 2022.
  4. "The President of India Recognized Shobha Gasti's work on Girl Child Education and Devadasi Women". Bangalore News Network. 10 January 2020. Archived from the original on 21 April 2022. Retrieved 21 April 2022.
  5. "Karnataka Bengaluru News Highlights: State reports 197 Covid-19 cases, 8 deaths". The Indian Express. 8 March 2022. Archived from the original on 8 March 2022. Retrieved 21 April 2022.
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