In 2014, Facebook saw the birth of Humans of Bombay, a brainchild of Karishma Mehta. The mission was clear: dissolve solitude through stories. Mehta’s vision was straightforward – provide solace to the invisible battles, companionship to the jubilant, solidarity to the defiant, and wholeheartedly absorb every account.
But destiny had grander designs. A venture that started as simple sharing transformed into a juggernaut community. Over 3.2 million members now find a haven within. One story snowballed into a repository of 6000 and still growing.
How It All Began
On the picturesque stretch of Mumbai’s Marine Drive, an unexpected rendezvous unfolded – a fateful meeting between Karishma and a nameless stranger, igniting the remarkable odyssey of Humans of Bombay.
Harkening back to the days preceding the project’s inception, Karishma recounts her strolls along Marine Drive, a quest to engage with diverse souls. Many shied away from her outreach, yet amidst the sea of refusals, a middle-aged widow extended her consent. Amidst the gentle sea breeze, they engaged in a discourse, weaving together the threads of their disparate lives. An impromptu tête-à-tête that bridged the chasm between unfamiliar hearts. As their exchange drew to a close, the woman’s words of gratitude resonated, underscoring the unexpected solace Karishma had bestowed.
Humans of Bombay Today
Over the span of the last eight years, Karishma’s voyage has been a deeply moving one, interweaving narratives as exquisite as the individuals they portray. What began within Mumbai’s borders has now outgrown geographical boundaries, evolving into a global embrace of human essence. Humans of Bombay, a saga that transcends provincial confines, has solidified its stance as India’s premier narrative platform, unraveling the tapestry of shared human encounters that defy territorial limits.
Since its inception in 2014, the platform’s scope has expanded substantially, capturing a kaleidoscope of stories that span the breadth of human existence. Beyond being a mere Instagram account, it has emerged as a potent force for benevolence. Through the collective power of crowdfunding, it has ignited positive transformation in numerous lives.
In a recent conversation, Karishma underscored that their cumulative contributions have surpassed 15 crores, channeling funds into surgeries, education for the marginalized, rehabilitation of women ensnared in the sex trade, and even securing justice for a man unjustly imprisoned in a bomb blast case.
Karishma swiftly rallied 23 lakhs for Ali Bhai, who had spent 23 wrongful years behind bars overnight.
The art of storytelling is both exquisite and intricate, capable of kindling inspiration. From her passion for listening, Karishma has forged something remarkable.
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