Deadline: 30 June 2025
The Kamla Bhasin Award for Driving Gender Equality Across South Asia celebrates individuals who have made significant strides in challenging patriarchal norms and promoting gender justice. Established in memory of feminist icon Kamla Bhasin, the award recognizes the efforts of women, men, and trans persons across the region who work towards creating a more equitable society.
Kamla Bhasin (1946–2021) was a renowned Indian feminist, poet, and social activist known for her work in gender education and human development. Her legacy continues through this award, which aims to honor those who embody her spirit and commitment to social change.
The award encompasses South Asian countries, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. It is open to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to gender equality in their respective fields and communities.
It is also meant to encourage the efforts being taken by women, men and trans persons to fight patriarchy and work towards a gender-just society where women can acquire livelihoods with dignity and gain control over their lives and bodies. The award recognises two individuals from South Asia every year with:
An award to celebrate women in non-traditional livelihoods across South Asia
An award to recognise men working towards gender equality
Categories
A woman (cis/trans) practitioner of Non-Traditional Livelihood (NTL)
Practicing a non-traditional livelihood in her/their context for the last 3 years.
Empowered herself/themselves to gain control over not just her/their earnings, but also her/their life.
Is a change agent and created opportunities for others.
A male (cis/trans) who has worked towards enabling a gender-just ecosystem by working with boys/men
Working with men/boys towards a gender-just world in the last 5 years.
Countering harmful masculinity in personal and work life by contributing in care work, accepting women’s leadership, combating all forms of gender-based violence and gendered socio-cultural norms.
Is a change agent and influenced other men to enable gender just world.
Award Information
Prize money of INR 100,000 along with a trophy.
Eligibility Criteria
They invite entries from South Asian citizens of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka who are residing and working in any country of South Asia.
Applications will be accepted in all official languages of the eight countries.
For more information, visit Azad Foundation.
