The story begins during the communal riots of 1992. Bhopal — a city known for its harmony under the Begums — was suddenly torn apart. Hindu and Muslim women were the worst affected, facing violence, displacement, and deep trauma. Camps were divided by religion, and mistrust was everywhere.
During this time, Mrs. Indira Iyengar regularly visited these camps with the Missionaries of Charity, carrying food, clothing, and comfort. She noticed something powerful — despite their fear, the women longed for someone who would simply listen to them.
So she began sitting every Wednesday at Neelam Park — a safe public space. One by one, women came to share their stories. Soon, the small circle grew into hundreds. These gatherings became a lifeline — a place where women felt seen, heard, and understood.
But listening wasn’t enough. Women needed income, skills, and independence.
Indira ji decided the group needed a permanent workspace. Over 2,000 women joined her on a courageous journey to Delhi to meet Shri Arjun Singh. With tremendous determination — and even traveling without reserved tickets — they fought for support. After multiple protests and peaceful sit-ins, the government finally allotted two worksheds in Dwarka Nagar, the area most affected by the 1984 Bhopal Gas Tragedy.
When the keys were handed over, the women celebrated with a “victory walk” from Neelam Park to the new work sheds — singing, dancing, and reclaiming hope.
Their first project came from the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation — natural dye block printing. Soon after, more skill programmes followed:
• Zari work
• Tailoring
• Jute work
• Block printing
• Embroidery
Mahashakti grew from 100 women to more than 5,000 in strength. With time, branches expanded into tribal districts like Jhabua, Alirajpur, and Jobat.
Today, the organization works with:
Mrs. Indira Iyengar’s mission was never charity — it was justice. She believed that when women stand together, they can overcome trauma, rebuild confidence, and reclaim their lives. Mahashakti was built on that belief: a space where women could learn skills, earn with dignity, and support each other through community and courage.
