The Braj Foundation is a non-profit organization, established in December 2005 to restore and revitalize the environmental and cultural heritage of Braj Bhoomi (land of Braj)- the land of Shri Radha Krishna, which falls within the Golden Triangle of Delhi, Jaipur & Agra, most parts of which are lying in various stages of neglect for centuries despite its significant historical, cultural and tourism significance.
Initially established by leading industrialists from India & abroad, in a short span of 7 years the Foundation has achieved impressive targets of restoration and revitalisation across many sites in Braj Bhoomi. Presently, the Foundation is driven by and comprises of eminent personalities and professionals from different walks of life, all united with the single vision of restoring and revitalizing Braj Bhoomi.
The entire Braj region has a distinct and unique ecological, architectural and cultural heritage, which highlights the intertwined relationship between environment, people and the Supreme Lord. Therefore, its protection, restoration and revitalization should naturally follow, especially for the lovers of Indian culture.
The work done by Braj Foundation has attracted national and international appreciation at various forums, be in by governments, corporate or media. For the year 2012-13 and 2010-11, The Braj Foundation won UNESCO sponsored award as the best NGO for restoring ancient water bodies.
The Braj Foundation works through a combined strategy of collaborating with local communities, governments and local authorities as well as creating solutions using professional expertise, appropriate technology empowered by financial support from corporates, public sector, government and individuals.
The Braj Foundations works with a complete secular approach and ethos, which has been reflected in the fact that people from different religious backgrounds, including Muslims and Christians etc. work enthusiastically for achieving the objectives of the Foundation.
Accomplishments so far :
1. Restoration of 42 Ancient Water Bodies in different stages
2. Revival of 2 Groves, work on 4 more in progress
3. Protection of Hills & Regeneration of Green Cover
4. Master planning of Braj for UP Govt.
5. Restoration of 3 heritage buildings
6. Audio-visual documentation of Braj culture
7. Drinking water supply projects in some villages
8. Exhaustive scientific survey of Braj region
9. World-wide awareness campaign about the plight of Braj
10. Nine grand Braj Mahotsavs in different parts of the country
11. Special legislations for Braj protection
“This is an extraordinary effort, and a great way to revive age old forgotten heritage and culture. This is an inspiring example for the youth of the nation. The Braj Foundation follows a systematic and scientific procedure in this whole development process, at the same time involving local and making them responsible which is essential for sustenance on a long term.”
Mrs. Ranjana Kumar
Vigilance Commissioner of India
“I had the opportunity to see the restoration of a heritage site (Brahm Kund) done by the Foundation. It is a commendable work done with great sensitivity”.
Dr. Subas Pani
Secretary, Planning Commission of India
“It is a tribute to what can be done with people’s participation. An excellent initiative, it would be our effort to support it in all possible manner.”
Mr. Atul Gupta
Chief Secretary Govt. of UP
“I would particularly like to place on record my deep appreciation for the contribution of The Braj Foundation, who with their enormous research & insights, field survey reports and their undergoing of the cultural history, have included many innovative ideas in the Tourism Master Plan. I hope this Master Plan would provide the basis for integrated development of tourism in the Braj region."
Mr. Susheel Kumar
Principal Secy. Tourism,
Govt. of UP
"The Braj Foundation is doing good work for the community development and I have seen their accomplishments."
Mrs. Sushma Swaraj
Leader Opposition
Lok Sabha
"The Braj Foundation has given the vision for Braj Development. We will do everything possible to help them."
Mr. Subodh Kant Sahay
Former Union Minister for Tourism
