Background

While literacy and academics often dominate discussions around educational reform in India, physical literacy, health, and self-defense are frequently overlooked. A study by the London School of Economics highlights the strong connection between physical activity, academic performance, and mental well-being. Yet, according to the 2022 India Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Adolescents published by the National Health Archives, children in India engage in worryingly low levels of physical activity each week. The COVID-19 pandemic worsened this situation, with UNICEF reporting a 44% decline in movement and physical activity during the lockdown—figures that have yet to return to pre-pandemic levels.

In the realm of self-defense education, the gap is especially stark for young girls from underserved communities. A 2023 study by Dasra and the Centre for Catalyzing Change found that fewer than 20% of girls in slum areas feel safe commuting to school, and more than 50% have experienced some form of harassment in public spaces. Despite this, school curricula and institutional investments rarely prioritize self-defense training. Project Dishoom was created in response to these challenges and is grounded in principles of empowerment, dignity, and access.