LOKNAAD

THE VOICES FOR DIGNITY

The session began with a brief introduction of Mr. Vinay Mahajan and Ms. Charul Bharwada.
Vinay Mahajan: Sir, has studied Agricultural Engineering from Punjab Agricultural University,
Ludhiana followed by post-graduation in management at IIM, Ahmedabad.
He discovered his talent in writing and composing socially reflective songs during the communal
riots of 1985, this was the turning point in his life.
Not much inclined towards corporate career, he spent considerable time in understanding
social reality through books, field work and actions during his college days
Charul Bharwada: She has studied Architecture from Academy of Architecture, Mumbai and
later did her post-graduation at the School of Planning, CEPT, Ahmedabad.
As soon as she was out of the Architecture School, she embarked upon a journey to explore the
country. Her first ever journey in rural India was reflective and life changing. She began to
discover her writing and singing talent. She has keen interest in sustainable minimalist designs,
aesthetics and visual medium.
Charul and Vinay began their collective journey in 1990. Growing communal divide and
inequality has had deep impact on their expressions. Trying to find meaning to their lives and
professions, they have lived with, traveled with and learnt many lessons of dignity from the
non-literate and marginalized but culturally rich and deeply knowledgeable ‘invisible’
communities of our society.
Charul Bharwada & Vinay Mahajan are the founder directors of the Loknaad foundation.
Loknaad, a part of the Foundation, began its work in 1992. Loknaad means people’s voice. It
works on the issues of peace, dignity and democracy through reflective music, peace products
and educational workshops.
They have tried to bring out the issues of nomadic pastoralists, salt makers, tribal and other
marginalized communities of Gujarat through various studies.
Their works have been published and presented in national and international conferences and
publications.
Soon after the introduction they started playing various songs. They told us the story behind
them and helped us understand their meaning. They shared their life experiences with the
marginalized communities.
Various songs played by them like Zero BHK Flat, We the People, Aao Lakeerein Mita Dein etc.,
during the session were very soul touching. At the end of the session feedback form and CD’s of
their Music Album “Aazadi” were distributed.