Astha Kalarikkal is a visionary co-founder and the current Executive Director of Raahi in Bangalore. Passionate about gender and sexuality, crisis intervention, and community theatre, she is dedicated to making a difference.

With a remarkable talent for languages, she empowers various community-based organisations in Bangalore and Kerala through her expertise in English and Malayalam translation and transcription. Her collaborative spirit shines as she joins forces with other movements for gender and sexuality in Kerala, striving for a more equitable society.

Sathyakala K.K. holds a Bachelor of Science degree and has completed her Master’s in Sociology from Mahatma Gandhi University in Kerala. Additionally, she has earned a Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications.

​

Since 2010, Sathyakala has been actively engaged with the LGBTQI+ community in various roles and with different organizations. She has a strong passion for theatre and is an experienced performer. Furthermore, she is a co-founder and currently serves as the Finance Manager of Raahi in Bangalore.

Nathaan M holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Communication from the Kerala Media Academy (formerly known as the Kerala Press Academy) in Kochi, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Calicut.

He has five years of experience as a reporter, sub-editor, content writer, and freelance designer. Throughout his career, he has worked with several media organisations, including Kerala Vision, The Editor, and Suprabhaatham Daily, both as a reporter and an editor. Currently, Nathaan serves as a Program Manager at Raahi in Bangalore. Additionally, he was the PR/Social Media Manager and Designer at Sahayatrika in Thrissur, Kerala, and he is currently a board member of Sahayatrika.

Ahana Mekhal has been involved in Kerala’s queer movement since her teenage years. From 2016 to 2023, she worked with Sahayatrika, a pioneering organization for AFAB (Assigned Female at Birth) queer and trans individuals in Kerala. Throughout this time, she played a significant role in various movement initiatives, including Kerala’s pride marches and the Justice for Anannyah Action Council, a fact-finding initiative established to investigate the suicides of trans individuals in Kerala. Currently, she is serving as the Shelter Manager at Raahi.

Advik Manikandan is a dynamic professional with a diverse background and a wealth of experience. His expertise spans across different sectors due to his work experience in various industries. Beyond his professional endeavours, he is also a talented athlete, dancer, and tally expert. In his leisure time, he finds joy in music, gaming, and cinema. Currently, Advik lends his expertise as a Program Associate at Raahi in Bangalore.