The nostalgic view of rural life in India has always been that of a peaceful haven where people live simple, happy communal lives. This no longer reflects the harsh realities of day-to-day life. For the majority of rural people, rural India has become a living tale of hopeless socio-economic situations, prevalent with disease, apathy, isolation and despair.

Over the last 13 years, Isha Foundation has been closely working with the heart of the Tamil Nadu rural community offering a range of programs and services from medical check-ups and vaccinations, to environmental awareness and yoga programs.

Launched in August 2003, the Foundation’s Action for Rural Rejuvenation (ARR) initiative is a comprehensive rural rehabilitation program that provides initial relief for urgent medical needs and ongoing services to restore inner well-being and rebuild community. ARR’s ongoing services include providing allopathic medical care, reinstituting herbal gardens for home remedies, imparting yoga for inner balance and organizing games for community joy.

ARR recognizes the inherent potential of individuals and communities to take responsibility for their own lives. The program is designed to become self-sustaining over a period of years.