Nachiketha Manovikasa Kendra
Why Nachiketha

Empowering Every Child to Reach Their Full Potential

Inspired by this powerful symbolism, Nachiketha Manovikasa Kendra stands as a space where every child—regardless of their challenges—is understood, nurtured, and given the dignity they deserve. Like Nachiketha, our children too carry unique strengths within them, waiting to be recognized, valued, and guided toward growth.

Nachiketha Manovikasa Kendra being honoured on stage at the Aryabhata Cultural Organisation awards

Our Mission

“To provide holistic, individualized support that empowers children with developmental challenges.”

500+

Children Served Annually

35+

Years of Service

50+

Dedicated Professionals

95%

Parent Satisfaction

The Name & Its Meaning

Why “Nachiketha”?

Our name carries deep significance, drawing inspiration from ancient wisdom to guide our modern mission

The Ancient Story

From the Katha Upanishad

Nachiketha, the son of Uddhālaka, is remembered as a child of innocence, silence, and profound inner wisdom. Though introverted and soft-spoken, he possessed deep knowledge awakened through his inner consciousness. A keen observer with very little speech, Nachiketha was often misunderstood by society. To the outer world, he appeared to be a slow learner—almost “dumb” in their eyes—and thus faced neglect and misjudgment. Yet, within him lay immense potential, purity, and extraordinary spiritual strength.

Inspired by this powerful symbolism, Nachiketha Manovikasa Kendra stands as a space where every child—regardless of their challenges—is understood, nurtured, and given the dignity they deserve. Like Nachiketha, our children too carry unique strengths within them, waiting to be recognized, valued, and guided toward growth.

What Nachiketha Represents

1

Fearless Inquiry

The courage to ask difficult questions and seek truth, even when faced with uncertainty

2

Lifelong Learning

An insatiable thirst for knowledge and understanding, prioritizing wisdom over material gains

3

Patience & Perseverance

The dedication to wait, work, and persist in the face of challenges

4

Inner Strength

The ability to remain composed and focused on what truly matters, despite external pressures

5

Spiritual Growth

The journey toward self-realization and discovering one's highest potential

“Arise! Awake! Approach the great teachers and learn. The path is sharp as a razor's edge, difficult to cross, and hard to tread.”

— Katha Upanishad 1.3.14 (Nachiketha's teaching)

This ancient wisdom reminds us that every learning journey requires courage, dedication, and support — principles that guide our work with every child at Nachiketha.

Why We Exist

In a world where children with intellectual and developmental challenges often face barriers to education and acceptance, Nachiketha stands as a beacon of hope, inclusion, and possibility.

Filling the Gap

Many families struggle to find comprehensive support for their children. We bridge this gap with specialized programmes, expert care, and a nurturing environment.

Building Community

We create a supportive community where families connect, share experiences, and find strength together in their journey.

Enabling Progress

Through evidence-based therapies and personalized learning plans, we help every child achieve meaningful progress at their own pace.

Our Journey

In October 1984, a few service-oriented youths from the GSB community came together and formed a society named Shantheri Seva Samithi (SSS). The main aim of this society was to organize and celebrate cultural events such as Upakarma, Sri Krishna Janmashtami, Ganesha Pooja, and Navaratri. The society was registered under the Society Registration Act of 1960.

At that time, Sri K. Devadas Shenoy (Canara Bank Manager) served as the President, Sri N. Narasimha Shenoy as the Secretary, and Sri H. Ganapathi Mallya (Syndicate Bank Clerk) as the Treasurer, along with twelve managing committee members.

While working together, the members noticed that there was no special school for mentally challenged children in the Vijayanagar area and the parents of such children were struggling without proper support. With a desire to serve this need, they decided to start a school for mentally challenged children.

Thus, in the year 1988–89, the Nachiketha Manovikasa Kendra (NMVK) was established. Official permission to run the school was granted in 1991.

Later, Sri K. D. Shenoy resigned from his position as President since bank officials were not permitted to hold office in such institutions. Sri P. Venkatesh Shenoy, who was the Vice President, was then elected as the new President of Shantheri Seva Samithi. This marked the beginning of the NMVK School at Vijayanagar, Bengaluru.

In the initial years, the school started with just two trained teachers, one helping staff and eleven differently-abled children. Classes were conducted in a small shed-like structure.

Though humble in its beginnings, the school's vision was strong — to provide education, care, and dignity to children with special needs. Over the years, Nachiketha Manovikasa Kendra has grown into a well-known institution dedicated to serving and supporting children with special needs, offering education, training and rehabilitation with compassion and commitment.

The Nachiketha Manovikasa Kendra team — staff, educators, and leadership

The Difference We Make

Personalized Care Plans

Every child receives an individualized programme tailored to their unique needs, abilities, and goals.

Expert Multidisciplinary Team

Our team includes special educators, therapists, counselors, and medical professionals working together.

Family-Centered Approach

We actively involve families in the care process, providing counseling and support every step of the way.

Holistic Development

Beyond academics, we focus on social skills, emotional well-being, and life skills for independence.

Be Part of Our Story

Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, you can help us continue making a difference in the lives of children and families.