An Unexpected Beginning – Stepping into Goonj’s World
Based in Hyderabad, Kinjal Dharod, a homemaker, never imagined that a casual visit to the Goonj Centre of Circularity would turn into a lifelong commitment. Accompanying her friends Smita and Shipra, Kinjal’s first encounter with Goonj left a deep impact.
“Little did I know that one visit to Goonj’s office would draw me in. I just got hooked, and from then on, there was no looking back,” she shares.
“Listening to Anshu ji a few times made many things stay with me—ideas that shaped how I saw giving and dignity.”
The Birthday That Sparked a Movement
On 17th September, at a volunteer meet in Hyderabad, Kinjal learned about an acute shortage of school supplies needed for children in rural India. That moment intersected with a personal milestone—her son Ayan’s birthday was just days away.
Instead of birthday gifts, Kinjal encouraged Ayan and his friends to contribute school supplies.
“He happily agreed to the idea,” she says. “His friends got school stationery instead of presents—gifts that would go to kids they didn’t know, but cared for.
5000 Notebooks, 40,800 Pencils, and One Act of Kindness
With assistance from her family and friends, Kinjal’s simple idea snowballed into a major contribution: 5,000 notebooks and 40,800 pencils were sent to Goonj to be channelised into the school kit made under Goonj’s School to School initiative.
“This work had to happen—I just became the means,” she reflects.
“Ayan experienced the joy of giving firsthand. He may not express it today, but this will stay with him. Life is all about ‘This and That’… why choose one when you can do both?”
A Call for Mindful Urban Participation
Kinjal believes that the world has enough—what’s lacking is awareness and equitable contribution.
“There is no shortage in nature. It’s humans who’ve created the gap—and only humans can bridge it.”
“Urban India needs to become more conscious—share what you’re not using. And more power must go toward reaching the remotest person who’s still waiting to be seen.”
Kinajl packing daily wear clothes for Contribution
A Story of Dignity, Resilience, and Shared Humanity
Kinjal’s story is more than a personal anecdote—it’s a reflection of how small urban actions can drive systemic rural change. It highlights the power of people-led generosity and the ripple effect it can create across communities.
Be a Part of Change
Our invitation to you is, start from where you are.. From a small change of starting a Goonj kee Gullak or Team 5000, joining a long and deep change process, or things in between- organising a collection drive, a volunteering journey, an internship, or simply walking with us signing for a Goonj monthly newsletter subscription.. More on www.goonj.org or write to [email protected].
Many options, but the choice is always one; Taking Action..
