Adv. Komal Ajay Salunkhe
Founder of Savali Foundation
Published by The Business Tycoons -
June 2026
A Multifaceted Gem of Social Transformation
- A woman possess the power of creation, is resilient, courageous, and driven by purpose. A shining example of these qualities is Adv. Komal Ajay Salunkhe—a distinguished lawyer, renowned motivational speaker, Mrs. India titleholder, trained swordswoman, social reformer, educationist, and founder of initiatives that have empowered thousands across Maharashtra.
- As a trustee and director of the Shahu Education Society, which operates more than a hundred schools, colleges, hostels, and residential institutions across the state, Komaltai has dedicated herself to expanding access to quality education. She is also the founder of the Savali Foundation and the State Women's President of the Bahujan Rayat Parishad, a state-wide organization committed to the welfare of marginalized communities.
A Childhood Inspired by Service
- Born and raised in Mangalwedha, the land of Sant Damaji Pant, Komaltai grew up under the guidance of her father, former Maharashtra Minister Prof. Laxmanrao Dhoble. Observing his lifelong commitment to the poor, laborers, farmers, and the underprivileged shaped her outlook from an early age. Rather than seeking support from others, she resolved to become a source of support for society.
- Following her father's vision, she has strengthened the work of the Bahujan Rayat Parishad, expanding its reach across Maharashtra. Under her leadership, the organization has led several public movements concerning employee recruitment, workers' rights, toll plaza issues, the Annabhau Sathe Memorial, and social justice. She also actively campaigned for the categorization of Scheduled Castes into sub-groups to ensure equitable representation and opportunities.
Motivating and Empowering
- A gifted communicator, Komaltai has earned recognition as a respected speaker and motivational leader. Her speeches, rooted in social awareness and practical experience, inspire confidence, hope, and action among diverse audiences.
- While still a college student, she entered social service by establishing the Savali Foundation on International Women's Day, 8 March 2005. Within a year, the Foundation brought together nearly 5,000 women through over 100 self-help groups. By promoting financial discipline, entrepreneurship, and skill development, it empowered women through activities such as food processing, tailoring, dairy farming, vermicelli production, ration shops, and bicycle repair businesses. The Foundation also launched Savali Bazaar and provided women entrepreneurs with opportunities to showcase their products at national-level platforms, including an event in Delhi in 2019.
- In 2018, she launched the Umang Mahila Mahotsav, bringing together nearly 15,000 rural women and encouraging financial inclusion. Through this initiative, thousands of savings accounts were opened, insurance coverage was provided, and awareness about economic independence was strengthened.
- As a lawyer and social activist, Komaltai has also championed women's rights. She organized legal conferences involving over 100 lawyers from across Maharashtra, submitted recommendations for strengthening women's safety laws, and has personally provided free legal counseling and support to nearly 3,000 women facing injustice.
- She has also introduced English-medium education in several institutions serving rural and underprivileged children, particularly those from sugarcane workers' families, while continuing to advocate affordable, quality education for all.
- During the COVID-19 crisis, she extended support to employees, workers, and families associated with her institutions, demonstrating her belief that service matters more than recognition.
- Her journey stands as a powerful example of how determination, service, and selfless commitment can create lasting social change and inspire future generations.
