Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar

Mahantesh GK is the Founder Chairman of Samarthanam International, Founder President of Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) and Former President of World Blind Cricket (WBC).

Mahantesh, born in a farming village, had lost his vision when he was six months old. Despite various setbacks faced in school and college, a resolve to thrive beyond difficulties and significantly contribute to the disabled fraternity, did not stop him from moving ahead. He completed MA & M.Phil in English literature from University of Bangalore and taught for 5 yrs as faculty of English at university Law College. All through his academic career Mahantesh had scored distinction at every level and because of his excellent academic record, he was able to execute his ideas without imperfection.

His inspiration and interest was to ensure disabled people receive all possible support to pursue education and sports equally with their non disabled peers. A vision to empower people with disabilities and make them completely independent at various levels has led Mahantesh look beyond the various challenges and conceptualize Samarthanam in 1997, an organization which would cater to people with disabilities and the underserved.

Mahantesh, a technology follower also advocates on the use of latest technology in all the programs at Samarthanam. Apart from being a great visionary, Mahantesh is also known for his strategic and fundraising skills. An ardent traveler, Mahantesh has travelled alone through different parts of the world.

Mahantesh believes that persons with disabilities should also be considered as agents and beneficiaries of development, and also need to value their contribution to the general well-being, progress and diversity of society equality in spite of their disabilities.