Education and Early Hardships: Anuradha completed her schooling at St. Joseph Convent School in Kalimpong, India, which provided her with a strong educational foundation. Despite the conservative societal norms, her parents supported her education, which was relatively rare for girls at that time.
Anuradha married a professor, Dinesh Koirala, but the marriage was tumultuous, marked by domestic abuse. This difficult period in her life profoundly affected her, instilling in her a resolve to help other women in similar situations.
Career Beginnings and Establishing Maiti Nepal: In 1993, Anuradha Koirala founded Maiti Nepal, an NGO dedicated to combating human trafficking and aiding survivors of sex trafficking. Starting with a small personal investment and immense determination, she began rescuing girls and women from brothels, providing them with shelter, medical care, and vocational training.
Major Milestones and Challenges:
- 1993: Establishment of Maiti Nepal.
- 1997: Maiti Nepal received international recognition when CNN featured their work, bringing global attention to the cause.
- 1998: Maiti Nepal received the “Best Social Organization Award” from the Nepal government.
- 2002: Anuradha won the “Courage of Conscience Award” from The Peace Abbey in Sherborn, Massachusetts, USA.
Despite these successes, Anuradha faced numerous challenges, including threats from traffickers and bureaucratic hurdles. Her relentless fight against trafficking often put her at odds with powerful criminal networks.
Recognition and Accolades: Anuradha’s tireless work has earned her numerous awards:
- 2010: CNN Hero of the Year.
- 2012: The Mother Teresa Award for Social Justice.
- 2014: The Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian awards.
Real Name: Anuradha Gurung (later Koirala after marriage)
Date of Birth: April 14, 1949
Birth Place: Rumjatar, Okhaldhunga, Nepal
Residence: Kathmandu, Nepal
Nationality: Nepali
Religion: Hinduism
Partner: Dinesh Koirala (separated)
Horoscope: Aries
Age: 75 (as of 2024)
Height: 162 cm
Weight: 55 kg (approx. 121 lbs)
Body Type: Average
Eye Color: Dark Brown
Hair Color: Black (now graying)