ABOUT
The concept of Praana is for ‘life’ – an existence, a journey. It is the ‘soul’ – the vital force that lives. It is also the ‘breath’ – the force that moves. It is the energy that drives life.
In a vast, complex ecosystem, it is our ‘Praana’ that keeps us alive and rooted. The concept of Praana is fundamental, yet pivotal.
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It teaches us to love,
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It teaches us to protect,
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It teaches us to nurture.
We are The Praana Animal Foundation.
We believe every being is entitled to a life of dignity.
Our Vision
Because every life, no matter how small or silent, deserves a second chance.
Our Mission
To rehabilitate, rehome, and enrich the lives of cats in need while promoting a compassionate community of responsible pet ownership.
Our Team
Samyukta Hornad
Director & Founder
An acclaimed actor with 34 films and numerous plays to her credit, has devoted 19 years to her animal rescue & animal rights as the founder of Praana Animal Foundation, driven by an unyielding vision to create a safe, loving ecosystem for all creatures. As an ambassador for Urban Wildlife with organizations like People for Animals, Wildlife SOS, and CARE, she pours her heart into championing their cause, having personally adopted animals such as a leopard, bear, elephants, monkeys, and a wild hare, nurturing them with unwavering care and love. As a dedicated member of the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, Government of Karnataka, Samyukta is determined to build a transformative animal welfare system to safeguard animals across the region.
To amplify her mission, she has launched a production house focused on creating powerful documentaries and films that celebrate and advocate for animals and nature.
Awards & Recognition
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7th CMSB National Award (2025) – Best Animal Rights NGO
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KWAA – Karnataka Woman of the Year Award for Social Welfare (2023)
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Inspiring of the Year Award (2019) – for Social Work
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Youth Icon of the Year Award (2022) – for feeding 4,000 dogs during COVID for 1.5 years
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Young Achiever of the Year Award – for her work as a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and actor
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Filmfare – Best Supporting Actor for Oggarane
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SIIMA – Best Supporting Actor for Toby
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Chitrasante – Best Actor (Critics)
Wildlife & Animal Welfare Contributions
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PETA – Served as an ambassador, raised funds, and donated a mechanical elephant to Karnataka’s Yedeyur Sri Siddhalingeshwara Temple.
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Wildlife SOS – Adopted a bear, tiger, and elephant; conducted awareness campaigns highlighting the challenges faced by wildlife.
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PFA (People for Animals) – Appointed as Urban Wildlife Ambassador for Bangalore by Maneka Gandhi; led multiple campaigns as a vocal advocate.
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Bannerghatta National Park – Adopted a neurologically impaired tiger cub named Sinchana.
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Collaborated as an ambassador with various other wildlife and animal rescue foundations.
Other NGOs Samyukta Has Worked With:
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CARE
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CUPA
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SBC (South Bangalore Cares)
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HSI (Humane Society International)
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Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services
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Multiple other animal foundations
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Animal Adoption & Rehabilitation
Praana runs structured adoption programs that:
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Rehabilitate rescued animals
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Ensure lifelong, responsible rehoming
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Offer post-adoption support and education
Samyukta actively participates in home checks, follow-ups, and animal integration processes — ensuring that adoption is ethical, safe, and permanent.
Aniruddha Ravindra
Managing Director
Managing Director of Praana Animal Foundation, is a fearless animal welfare advocate and the driving force behind the organization. With a bold vision and relentless compassion, he leads emergency rescue operations, public policy advocacy, and on-ground animal care with a rare combination of heart and action. As a designated Animal Welfare Warden with the Karnataka Animal Welfare Board and an active member of SPCA Bangalore, Aniruddha is deeply committed to protecting the voiceless—whether it’s rushing to aid injured street animals, organizing large-scale awareness campaigns, or challenging systemic gaps with unwavering resolve. His mission is rooted in justice, empathy, and action—working tirelessly to build a compassionate world where all animals are safe, valued, and free from suffering.
For Aniruddha, Praana isn’t just a foundation—it’s a movement. One that dares to imagine a city where animals are safe, laws are enforced, and compassion is the culture.