★ India's first yoga-based school for the blind

Giving blind children the confidence to live independently.

Jnanasindhu Residential School for Visually Challenged has nurtured self-reliance, courage, and hope in blind children through education and yoga since 2010 — in the village of Holealur, Gadag District, Karnataka.

2010
Founded in July
1st
Yoga-based blind school in India
4 → 32
Students & growing
100%
Free residential care

About Us

A school born from one question: what happens after school?

Jnanasindhu is India's first yoga-based school for blind children. Located in Holealur village of Ron taluk, Gadag District, Karnataka, it opened in July 2010. We had hoped to start such a school in Hubli, but the absence of one in rural areas — and the timely encouragement of Shri Yachchareswara Math Swamiji of Holealur — led us to begin here instead.

Holealur is the birthplace of Shri Aluru Venkataraya, the architect of Karnataka's integration, and it is a matter of pride for us to serve at such a place. We began with just 4 students; today that number has grown to 32.

Our motto: to build self-confidence and a self-reliant life for every child, so they can meet the day-to-day world with dignity — not dependence.
Students and staff of Jnanasindhu School standing together in front of the school building.

Our Mission

To change the life of those who have no hope

Jnanasindhu was founded by Shivannad N. Kelur for three reasons that still guide everything we do.

REASON 01

Skills beyond a certificate

While teaching yoga at a blind school in Bangalore, our founder saw a former student — one who had passed with distinction — begging in the street. It became clear that qualifications alone are not enough; blind students need far more skills than others to live a full, independent life.

REASON 02

A place to compete and shine

Blind students were often shut out of competitions. We set out to build our own institute — one that would prepare and encourage students to compete confidently in events around the world.

REASON 03

Inspired by what's possible

We were inspired by Ben Underwood, who lost his sight to cancer as a child yet learned echolocation — running, cycling, and playing sports by sound. We train our students to meet daily life with the same independence and spirit.

"Give a helping hand to those who need it."

Ways to Give

Your support changes a child's future

Every contribution — big or small — goes directly toward the care, education, and dignity of our children.

Education

Fund learning materials, Braille resources, and teaching that opens up the world.

Meals in Hostel

Provide nutritious daily meals for children living at our residential campus.

Building the Campus

Help us complete safe, accessible classrooms and hostel facilities.

General Donation

Support wherever the need is greatest, from yoga training to daily care.

Contact Us to Donate

With Gratitude

Our Donors

We are deeply thankful to the individuals and organisations whose generosity keeps our doors open.

  • B. K. S. Iyengar — Pune, Maharashtra
  • Nest Society — Bengaluru
  • Chandrashekhar Amingad & family — Dharwad
  • Corporation Bank Employees Union — Belgaum, Karnataka
  • Sai Educational Society — Mudhol, Bagalkot District
  • Manjunath M. Hosamani — Holealur, Gadag District
  • Ningappa Madnalli & sons — Holealur
  • and many more valuable donors

Get in Touch

We'd love to hear from you

Jnanasindhu Residential School
for Visually Challenged

AddressAt & Post Hole Alur, Ron Tq,
Gadag District, Karnataka, India — 582203
Phone+91 95918 45407  ·  +91 99022 22047