Youth Venture India

Shankar - CHANGEMAKER

Posted on 21. May, 2009 by Youth Venture India in Our Changemakers, Sports-based Development

Shankar’s Venture: Khiladi

Shankar is Parthi, a community officially branded as “criminal” during colonialism.  Though the label has been repealed, a cycle of illiteracy, substance abuse, and crime remains in its wake.  Shankar launched Khiladi to empower his community to break free from the cycle and move forward.  Shankar organizes regular cricket tournaments for young Parthis.  Between matches, community leaders engage the players in sessions on life skills and on the opportunities available to them.  Through Khiladi, Shankar also introduces community youth to policemen in a safe environment, establishing a connection to reduce confrontation.

Shankar at a YV Workshop

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Tags: at-risk youth, cricket, de-notified tribes, police