Kautilya Society (Varanasi)

Promoting Intercultural Dialogue and Sustainable Development

1. Who We Are (About Us)

Founded in 1998 in the ancient city of Varanasi, the Kautilya Society (KS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering dialogue and partnerships between diverse cultures. Originally started by scholars and students of Indian philosophy, it has evolved into an "umbrella institution" that supports social action, heritage protection, and sustainable development projects.

The society is named after Kautilya (Chanakya), not just for his historical significance as a strategist, but for the myth of the Brahmin who held power accountable—a symbol of intellectual and ethical responsibility toward the people.

2. Our Vision & Mission

• Intercultural Dialogue: Creating "moments of contact" between people of different cultures to share knowledge and perspectives.
• Heritage Protection: Actively advocating for the preservation of Varanasi’s unique architectural and spiritual heritage against illegal or insensitive modern construction.
• Responsible Tourism: Promoting tourism that respects the local environment and community, ensuring a positive impact on the city's human and physical landscape.
• Empowerment: A strong commitment to women’s rights and professional empowerment at all levels of the organization.

3. Key Projects & Services

Ram Bhawan Residence (Study Centre)

Located at Munshi Ghat, overlooking the Ganges, Ram Bhawan is the society’s physical heart. It is a traditional four-story house that functions as:

• A Meeting Ground: A space for scholars, travelers, and residents to interact.
• Study Centre: Hosting seminars, cultural events, and maintaining a library focused on Indian culture and Varanasi’s history.
• Membership-Based Hospitality: Unlike a hotel, it offers a community-focused stay for members interested in deep cultural immersion.

The Heritage Project

The Society is well-known for its legal and social battle to protect the Ganga Riverfront. This includes:

• Filing Public Interest Litigations (PILs) against illegal constructions in prohibited zones.
• Documenting the "Varanasi Heritage Dossier" to catalog the city’s historical assets.
• Engaging with local communities to hold authorities accountable for urban development policies.

Filocafè

A popular rooftop space on the terrace of Ram Bhawan designed for the younger generation of Varanasi and international visitors. It serves as a hub for:

• Networking and conversation.
• Eco-friendly practices (using earthenware and local products).
• Multicultural exchange in a relaxed setting.

Media & Knowledge Resources

The Society manages several digital platforms for knowledge exchange:

• Banaras Biradari: A community blog focusing on local culture and heritage.
• The Development Cooperation Handbook: A resource sharing knowledge for NGOs and activists.
• Documentaries: Producing visual media like "Into Our Nature" to highlight social and environmental issues.

4. How to Connect

• Location: D-20/21 Munshi Ghat, Bengali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh - 221001.
• Membership: Access to the residency and certain resources requires membership (available for 6 months, 1 year, or Lifetime).
• Contact: * Phone: +91-638 989 9996
• Email: [email protected]
• Skype: kautilyasociety