Mumbai, January 19, 2026: Kotak Education Foundation (KEF) has unveiled the Kotak Shiksha Nidhi Impact Film, capturing stories of resilience and transformation among students whose education was protected in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic through the Kotak Shiksha Nidhi initiative.
Launched pan-India during the pandemic, Kotak Shiksha Nidhi was designed to ensure educational continuity for students who lost one or both parents, or a primary earning family member, due to COVID-19. The initiative supported over 1,500 students aged 6 to 22 years, from Class 1 to graduation and diploma courses, providing financial assistance of up to ₹2.5 lakh per annum at a time of acute emotional and financial distress.
Beyond financial aid, the programme was structured as a holistic support system, offering academic assistance, career guidance, analytical skills training, mental health and wellness counselling, and personality development and life-skills coaching. This integrated approach enabled students to remain in the education system while rebuilding confidence and planning for the future. Many beneficiaries have since completed higher education, secured internships, and gained full-time employment..
Jaideep Hansraj, Whole Time Director (Executive Director), Kotak Mahindra Bank, said, “The Kotak Shiksha Nidhi Impact Film is a salute to courage. Behind every frame is a young learner who refused to let loss define their future. Through timely financial support and holistic care including academic guidance, mental wellness, and life skills, we worked with the families as they rebuilt hope. This film reminds us why equitable access to education matters: because when support arrives at the right time, potential becomes possibility.”
Jayasree Ramesh, COO (Education), Kotak Education Foundation, added, “At Kotak Education Foundation, we know that every child’s learning is precious and no crisis should stand in its way. Kotak Shiksha Nidhi was created with care and foresight, to protect the dreams of children facing unimaginable loss. This video shares their stories of resilience and courage, highlighting a pan-India movement that ensures every child can continue to learn, grow, and thrive.”
The film was created by curating representative stories from across four states, capturing diverse age groups and lived realities. Produced in collaboration with an acclaimed production house and directed by award-winning filmmaker Sarthak Dasgupta, the film seeks to humanise impact beyond numbers.
The launch reinforces KEF’s long-term commitment to equity in education and its belief that timely, well-designed support can make education a force for healing, dignity, and lasting change.
x
.jpg)
