An Ode To…

Rahini Bansal is a high schooler, researcher and social entrepreneur whose work explores the intersection of women’s autonomy, economic dependence and cultural systems. Her study of karewa, a form of levirate marriage in rural North India, led her to examine how financial vulnerability can restrict women’s choices. Turning research into action, she founded Sutradhar, a zero-waste textile initiative that trains women affected by domestic abuse and financial dependence in stitching, embroidery and upcycling. Under her leadership, Sutradhar has upskilled over 200 women and generated direct earnings for participants. Rahini’s work reflects her commitment to dignity, self-reliance and meaningful social change.