About Manasa

Manasa Centre for Development and Social Action (commonly known as Manasa) is a grassroots nonprofit organization headquartered in Bangalore, Karnataka, India. Established in 1995 by the late visionary Shri Mathews Philip, Manasa has evolved over the past three decades into a dynamic and deeply rooted civil society organization.

Manasa Centre for Development and Social Action is committed to building a just, inclusive, and equitable society. Guided by the principles of dignity, empowerment, and participatory development, Manasa has spent over three decades empowering women, children, and marginalized communities across Karnataka and neighboring states.

Community members connected with Manasa's work

The Name

Justice, humanity, and society held together in practice.

The name Manasa reflects its core values: Ma - Manaviya Mathu (Humanity), Na - Nyayayukta (Justice), and Sa - Samajakagi (For Society).

Today, Manasa operates in 10 districts of Karnataka, focusing on preventive, promotive, and rights-restorative interventions. Through community engagement, advocacy, education, and monitoring, Manasa has enabled thousands to claim their rights and lead lives of dignity.

Leadership

The people who shaped and guide Manasa.

Our Team

Board members guiding Manasa's mission.

Meet the board members supporting organizational direction, governance, and long-term public action.

Staff

The team carrying programs into daily work.

Meet the staff supporting Manasa's programs, partnerships, and day-to-day community work.

District Coordinators

Local coordination across the regions Manasa serves.

Meet the district coordinators supporting Manasa's work across the regions it serves.

In the Community

Manasa community program gathering
Manasa team working with community members
Participants at a Manasa outreach program
Community members during a Manasa field activity