Punjabi Samvad began when Amit Bawa and Jyoti Bawa chose to act on gender-based violence and discrimination.
Punjabi Samvad creates space for people to ask questions, share experience and participate in the issues that affect their lives.
One of the earliest initiatives was Khooh Bolda Hai, a theatre production written and directed by Jyoti Bawa. Addressing female foeticide and gender discrimination, it established creative advocacy at the heart of the organisation.
Educational and vocational programmes created opportunities for women, girls and young people. Health work addressed HIV/AIDS and menstrual health; mental-health sessions entered schools and communities; anti-drug programmes combined lectures, outreach and film.
After Amit Bawa’s passing in 2014, Jyoti Bawa continued the work they began together and now serves as President.
From grassroots theatre to programmes at greater scale and a wider national focus.
