Laher Hiten Gala
Driven by a vision for a world transformed by equity in sport, Laher Gala is an economist, sports business professional and former international folk dancer. She has supported thousands in rural India through menstrual health initiatives, and now works at the intersection of culture, play and inclusion, making sure everyone belongs.
Khelegi enables girls and those menstruating to stay in sport through puberty with dignity, safety and joy. In India, nearly half of girls drop out of sport during puberty – six times more than boys.
The project responds with research, education, advocacy and community-driven interventions that scale and sustain inclusive play. In Dharavi, one of the world’s largest slums, neglected spaces are being transformed into period-friendly sports hubs. Weekly sessions in cricket, football, badminton and dance are combined with creative lessons on menstrual and reproductive health. Local mentors lead the programmes, supported by free menstrual kits, grassroots tournaments and digital tracking of progress.
By normalising periods and challenging taboos, Khelegi keeps
SDGs
