Back in 1989, a simple phone call marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey. Anil Mudgal received a call from a friend about a visually impaired assistant professor in Bhopal seeking assistance with preparing for his lectures. This call laid the foundation for a deep friendship, which eventually led to the creation of Arushi.

In the following three years, Anil, Rohit, and their circle of friends dedicated themselves to the cause. They tirelessly recorded audiobooks for visually impaired school children, diligently reading to those without sight. Their efforts extended beyond mere narration; they also raised funds to ensure these children received the education they deserved.

Disabling circumstances come in various forms - some stemming from structural inequalities like poverty or the unavailability of affordable services, while others arise from systemic constraints such as limited access. Societal norms can also induce challenges, leading to either neglect or overprotection. These conditions exist universally and their degree and intensity are situation-specific. To make an appreciable impact, the interventions have to be need-based. Arushi has grown to encompass work that develops capabilities in people with any disability and other groups of our society who are marginalized by the mainstream.