ABOUT SAMAJ
Dakshina Bharatha Mahila Samaj (DBMS)
Dakshina Bharatha Mahila Samaj (DBMS) was founded in Jamshedpur in 1944 by visionary women from South India, even before Indian Independence. What began as a cultural and social platform soon evolved into a dedicated social service organisation with education as its core mission. Guided by the belief that the world is one family, the Samaj continues to uplift society through inclusive education and empowerment.
About Dakshina Bharatha Mahila Samaj (DBMS)
Dakshina Bharatha Mahila Samaj (DBMS) was established in Jamshedpur in 1944 by a group of visionary women from South India, even before Indian Independence. Initially formed to provide a social platform for South Indian women with distinct languages and cultural backgrounds, the Samaj gradually evolved into a dedicated social service organization with education as its primary focus.
Guided by its timeless motto, “Vasudeva Kutumbakam – The World is One Family”, the Samaj has worked relentlessly to uplift society through inclusive education and empowerment initiatives.
Founding Members
- Mrs. Kaveri Krishnaswamy
- Mrs. Kanaka Rajagopalan
- Mrs. Nirmala Krishnamurthy
- Mrs. Rajam Vishwanathan
- Mrs. Kalyani Ramaswamy
- Mrs. Lakshmi Kumaran
- Mrs. Soundaram Vishwanathan
- Mrs. Saraswati Anant
- Mrs. Shakuntala Raja
- Mrs. Saraswathy Moorthy
- Mrs. Sugandha Raman
- Dr. Dharmabal
- Mrs. Bhanumathi Neelakanthan
- Late Shri C. V. Kalyanakrishnan
Growth of the Samaj Through the Years
- 1961: D.B.M.S. Girls High School for girls from lower-income groups.
- 1965: D.B.M.S. English School (ICSE) – today serving around 3000 students.
- 1989: D.B.M.S. Career Academy to provide career-oriented education for women.
- 1992: National Open School (NIOS) for students seeking flexible education.
- 2002: Binapani Vidyalaya – tribal school adopted at Dhanchatani village.
- 2003: D.B.M.S. Kadma Girls School (CBSE), educating nearly 1500 students.
- 2004: D.B.M.S. Lilliput School for children below the poverty line.
- Chunnu Munnu Ki Sawari: Educational outreach program for slum children through books and toys.
- 2006: Akshardham – adult literacy program for women.
- 2006: Karnataka State Open University – IT programs for higher education.
- 2008: Madurai Kamaraj University – UG, PG & MBA programs.
Bhanumathi Neelakantan Awards & Aid Trust
The Samaj also administers the Bhanumathi Neelakantan Awards & Aid Trust, instituted in 1995 in her memory. Each year, women from disadvantaged backgrounds are recognized for their exceptional contributions in the following categories:
- Outstanding Sportswoman
- Outstanding Student
- Physically Challenged Woman
- Woman Entrepreneur
- Woman Promoting Social Awareness
Each awardee receives a cash prize of ₹10,000 along with additional gifts, encouraging confidence, recognition, and empowerment.
