Kailash Satyarthi is a globally renowned Indian child rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, celebrated for his relentless crusade against child labor and exploitation. Born on January 11, 1954, in Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh, Satyarthi gave up a promising career in electrical engineering to dedicate his life to social reform. In 1980, he founded the Bachpan Bachao Andolan (Save the Childhood Movement), which has rescued over 100,000 children from slavery, trafficking, and forced labor.
With a gentle demeanor but unwavering resolve, Satyarthi has taken on powerful systems and industries, often at great personal risk. His global reach includes working with the United Nations, spearheading the Global March Against Child Labour, and lobbying for international legal reforms. He shared the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize with Malala Yousafzai, underscoring the synergy between education and freedom for children.
Beyond activism, Satyarthi is a compelling speaker and thought leader whose TED Talks and global campaigns have touched hearts and galvanized action. He continues to inspire new generations through his Kailash Satyarthi Children’s Foundation, which envisions a world where every child is free, safe, and educated.
Personal Life
| Original/Real Name |
Kailash Sharma Satyarthi |
| Other/Nickname |
N/A |
| Profession/Occupation |
Child Rights Activist, Social Reformer |
| Birthplace |
Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh, India |
| Nationality |
Indian |
| Age |
71 years (as of 2025) |
| Date of Birth |
11 January 1954 |
| Hometown |
Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh |
| Caste/Religion |
Hindu |
| Zodiac sign/Sun sign |
Capricorn |
| Current career status |
Active |
Physical Appearance
| Height (Centimeters) |
170 cm (5’7”) |
| Weight (Kilograms) |
Approx. 70 kg |
| Body Measurements |
N/A |
| Hair Color |
Grey |
| Eye’s Color |
Brown |
Family Relatives & Siblings
| Parents |
Not Publicly Known |
| Father’s name |
N/A |
| Mother’s name |
N/A |
| Brother’s name |
N/A |
| Sister’s name |
N/A |
Marital Status, Affairs, Boyfriends, Kids & Relationship
| Boyfriend |
N/A |
| Dating |
N/A |
| Marital Status |
Married |
| Spouse/Wife |
Sumedha Kailash |
| Son |
One son |
| Daughter |
One daughter |
Education Qualification and Schooling/College
| School |
Local School in Vidisha |
| College/ University |
Samrat Ashok Technological Institute, Vidisha |
| Educational Qualification |
Degree in Electrical Engineering |
Controversies
- Satyarthi’s activism often placed him in conflict with powerful interest groups, including illegal child labor rings and trafficking syndicates. He has faced multiple threats and violent attacks.
- In 2017, his house was burglarized, prompting a public outcry over the lack of security provided to one of India’s Nobel Laureates.
Favorite Things and Likes & Dislikes
| Favorite Food |
Traditional Indian Vegetarian Cuisine |
| Favorite Movie |
N/A |
| Favorite Actor |
N/A |
| Favorite Actress |
N/A |
| Favorite Color |
White |
| Favorite Designer |
N/A |
| Favorite Destination |
Himalayas |
| Favorite Cafe |
N/A |
| Favorite daily wear brand |
Khadi or Indian cottons |
| Favorite Book |
“Bhagavad Gita” |
| Favorite Athlete |
N/A |
Money/Net Worth
| Salary |
N/A – Works with non-profit organizations |
| Net Worth |
Estimated under ₹1 Crore (2025) – Primarily channeled into activism |
Contact Information
| Official Website |
https://satyarthi.org.in |
| E-Mail Address |
Not publicly available |
| Phone Number |
Not publicly available |
| House Address |
New Delhi, India |
Social Media
Personal Quote:
“Child labor perpetuates poverty, unemployment, illiteracy, population growth, and other social problems.”
Early Life and Career:
Kailash Satyarthi was born into a modest family in the central Indian town of Vidisha. From a young age, he was disturbed by the contrast between his privileged opportunity for education and the harsh reality faced by children of laborers. After earning a degree in electrical engineering, he briefly worked as a lecturer. However, his conscience led him to abandon his career and dedicate himself fully to eradicating child labor.
In 1980, he established the Bachpan Bachao Andolan (Save the Childhood Movement), focusing on direct interventions, legal advocacy, and awareness campaigns. He pioneered raid-and-rescue operations, often risking his life to liberate children from factories, mines, and trafficking rings. His activism led to the creation of the South Asian Coalition on Child Servitude and the Global March Against Child Labour, mobilizing millions across continents.
Current Life/Events:
Satyarthi continues to be a force for change in both grassroots activism and global policymaking. His foundation works across India and internationally, promoting education, mental health, and child safety. He remains active in diplomatic, academic, and media circles, advocating for stronger enforcement of child protection laws. His 100 Million Campaign has brought together young people across more than 100 countries to fight for the rights of children worldwide.
Facts:
- He is the second Indian after Mother Teresa to win the Nobel Peace Prize.
- The Nobel Committee praised his “struggle against the suppression of children and young people and for the right of all children to education.”
- He has survived multiple assassination attempts during raid operations.
- Satyarthi has been featured in Forbes “Heroes of Philanthropy” list.
- His life and work have been documented in several international films and publications.
- He helped push India’s Right to Education Act, passed in 2009, making education a fundamental right.
- His son, Bhuwan Ribhu, is also involved in child rights activism.
- He is a recipient of numerous awards, including the Defenders of Democracy Award (US) and the Harvard University Humanitarian Award.
- He has walked across 140 countries during his Global March Against Child Labour.
- Satyarthi’s office maintains a “Freedom Wall” with photos of every child rescued.
