Who We Are

Dhanak of Humanity is a not-for-profit organization led by survivors of natal family violence. Established by survivor couples as a support group in 2004, it became formally registered under the Societies Registration Act in 2012.

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Dhanak has grown and evolved organically, becoming a leading advocate for the safety and legal rights of individuals facing violence from their families. It addresses the unique vulnerabilities of young adults whose choices in education, employment, or relationships defy family expectations, often exposing them to honor-based violence.

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As the only organization in India addressing interfaith couple challenges comprehensively, Dhanak operates the first gender-neutral shelter for those asserting independence from caste, religion, and gender norms. It has impacted over 7,000 survivors, building expertise from real-life experiences and navigating societal, administrative, and legal hurdles.

Dhanak of Humanity

Dhanak’s Values & Principles

Gender equality, universal human rights, and constitutional values. Progressive adaptability to social and legal changes. 

 

Children and Youth

  • Commitment to Progressive Education: Promoting innovative, scientific learning.
  • Encouraging Inquiry: Fostering logical thinking without silencing youth based on age or traditional norms.
  • Freedom of Choice: Education, employment, and life partner selection unimpeded by caste, gender, or religion.
  • Identity Rights: Freedom to choose religion or gender as per legal provisions.
  • Diverse Learning: No imposition of a single religion or ideology.
  • Constitutional Awareness: Encouragement to understand constitutional principles.
  • Holistic Education: Emphasizing intellectual growth beyond job-oriented learning.
  • No Impositions: Respecting individual choices in religion, language, attire, and food.

Birth, Marriage, and Death

  • Non-Discriminatory Practices: No gender bias at birth.
  • Scientific Rituals: Embracing equality and logic in traditional ceremonies.
  • Ethical Marriages: Supporting interfaith marriage under the Special Marriage Act, opposing forced name changes.
  • No Extravagance: Simplicity in ceremonies, avoiding debt for social functions.

Resource Usage

  • Sustainability: Mindful use of natural and human-made resources, avoiding wastage.
  • Environmental Care: Importance of planting and preserving trees.

Adults and Elders

  • Gender Equality in Care: Respectful service to one’s and the partner’s parents.
  • Elder Care: Valuing love, respect, and service to elders.

Donations

  • Social Responsibility: Donations in labor, skills, goods, or funds are essential.
  • Support for Education and Health: Focused giving, not restricted to any religion or caste.

Marital Relationships

  • Shared Responsibilities: Equal partnership in family duties and expenses.
  • Personal Growth: Supporting partner’s educational and career aspirations.
  • Zero Tolerance for Abuse: No place for physical, mental, or financial violence.
  • Conflict Resolution: Encouraging dialogue and professional counseling if needed.

Religious Beliefs

  • Equality and Co-Existence: Respect for all faiths, beliefs, and ideologies.
  • Inclusivity: Recognizing no religion as superior or inferior based on rituals or customs.
  • Peaceful Integration: Practicing religious harmony in personal life, with rituals inclusive of gender equality and sustainability.
  • Mutual Consent: Conducting religious practices with shared understanding, possibly blending traditions.

Property Rights

  • Personal Property: Striving for self-acquired assets.
  • Equitable Inheritance: Rightful claim to ancestral property, free from gender and religious discrimination.
  • Fair Distribution: Equal division among children or charitable donation if otherwise.

Our Story

Dhanak is an Urdu word for the rainbow – a beautiful yet rare phenomenon. Similarly, interfaith/caste marriages are uncommon in our society. Just as rich colours get together to complete a rainbow, we believe that the differences in our religious backgrounds are like different hues that only add to the richness of our lives. Not only can we co-exist, but we can also enhance the quality of our lives, thanks to the diversity that comes along with the differences in our religious identities.

Our journey began in 2005 when a few interfaith couples decided to get together with the intention to form a forum which we decided to name “Dhanak”. The idea was to help people with similar backgrounds come together and form a support structure for each other at a small group & individual level. More importantly, we aimed to challenge the caste- and religion-based myths and superstitions that prevail in society, promoting awareness and progressive attitudes for a more inclusive, equitable environment.

We believe that the diversity in socio-cultural backgrounds brings unique challenges and experiences, and we have a deep understanding of these nuances. This understanding allows us to effectively address the needs of individuals from varied backgrounds while offering the necessary support tailored to their specific situations. We are confident that there are many such people who believe strongly in our vision and wish to be a part of it and support it.

We invite all to join us as “Friends of Dhanak”. Dhanak also looks forward to being associated as “Networking Partners” with like-minded groups and organizations that share Dhanak’s overall perspective of universal peace & harmony.