Our Founder: Maa Santosh (A Journey of Sacrifice and Service)

"Service is the ultimate resolution" – With this core philosophy, Maa Santosh, the Founder and President of Aanchal Chhaya, has transformed countless lives. Her life is a profound testament to how personal struggles can be channelled into a global mission for humanity.

Early Life and Values

Born on January 26, 1952, in Panipat, Maa Santosh inherited resilience and patriotism from her father, who served in the Intelligence Department of the Azad Hind Fauj. In 1972, when her father fell critically ill, she stepped up as the pillar of her family at a very young age. From working as a steno-typist to becoming a successful entrepreneur, her early journey was defined by grit and unwavering integrity.

The Great Renunciation (1997)

In 1997, at a stage when her business and family were well-settled, she chose to follow a higher calling. Honouring a long-held resolve, she renounced her comfortable home to dedicate her life to the forgotten. She established the Santoshanand Charitable Trust and began her journey of social service by adopting a few orphaned children, providing them with the love and care of a mother.

Genesis of Aanchal Chhaya (2006)

To provide a more structured future for vulnerable children, she founded the Aanchal Chhaya Education & Rehabilitation Society (Regd.) in 2006. Her vision was clear: to move beyond mere shelter and focus on Education and Rehabilitation, ensuring that every child under her wings is empowered to join the mainstream of society.

Current Vision and Leadership

Today, through her relentless hard work and spiritual devotion (Tapasya), Maa Santosh is leading the society’s mission in Baghola (Palwal). As President, she is actively bridging the gap between social needs and corporate resources.

Corporate CSR Partnerships

Engaging with corporates to build sustainable infrastructure for social welfare.

Women Empowerment

Transforming the lives of underprivileged women in surrounding villages by providing them with skills and a secure future.

Child Development

Ensuring high-quality education and value-based upbringing for the children of Aanchal Chhaya.

For Maa Santosh, Aanchal Chhaya is not just an organisation—it is a sanctuary where every destitute soul finds the warmth of a mother’s shadow and every child finds the wings to fly.