About Us
The Bhanu Foundation seeks to transform the lives and the future of the Children of IDS by providing them with Basic Needs
Our Story
In Loving Memory
The Bhanu Foundation was founded in loving memory of Bhanu Ratnam, who left us in 2011 at the age of 57.
Bhanu radiated positivity and optimism, no matter the circumstances. She passionately sponsored the education of numerous underprivileged children, helping them break free from the cycle of poverty.
Inspired by our visit to IDS in 2016, we established the Bhanu Foundation to continue her legacy and support IDS orphanage in providing education, healthcare, and essential support to children in need.
Our Mission
Nurturing Hope and Building Dreams for Children in Need
Bridge Resource Gaps
Begin by bridging resource gaps at IDS in Dasmantapur, ensuring every child has access to basic needs.
Expand Support
Expand support to other resource-constrained orphanages across India, multiplying our impact.
Raise Awareness
Raise awareness about the challenges faced by orphaned children in India and inspire action.
Our Board of Directors
We are committed to driving the mission of the Bhanu Foundation and making a difference in the lives of underprivileged children.
Sarayu Ratnam
President
Pediatric clinical researcher dedicated to advancing children’s health through clinical research and programs designed to improve care and outcomes for children and their families.
“The Bhanu Foundation brings together my personal roots and a passion that has shaped both my personal and professional life—supporting children, strengthening families, and helping create opportunities for every child to thrive. I believe every child deserves the chance to feel safe, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.”
Kash Muthuraman
Secretary
C-Level CPG Executive, focused on scaling up new technologies in the Food Industry with emphasis on innovation in nutrition while caring for the planet and its inhabitants.
“There are many children that don't have access to basic needs. If we all commit to helping a few of these children in any small way, they will have brighter futures.”
Karan Muthuraman
Director
Student at Vanderbilt University planning to major in Biology. He aspires to pursue a career in medicine.
“I recently had a chance to visit IDS in Odisha, India. I met the children first hand and realized there are so many things I have taken for granted.”
Anand Subbiah
Director
SVP of Product, Consensus. Entrepreneur, Product Executive, Technologist and Problem Solver.
“Every child deserves a fair chance at a happy, healthy and fulfilling life. Our mission is to make sure they get that chance.”
Shalini Subbiah
Director
Product and Agentic Leader.
“A child’s future should never depend on where they were born. I am honored to serve The Bhanu Foundation, which carries forward Bhanu Ratnam’s legacy of love and opportunity for the children of the IDS orphanage in Odisha. Helping them learn, heal, and dream is some of the most meaningful work I can imagine.”
Dr. Malika D. Shah
Director
Neonatologist at Lurie Children's Hospital and Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.
“I have seen firsthand how children can reach their potential when they have the resources they need to thrive. The Bhanu foundation works tirelessly to ensure under-resourced and orphaned children have the best possible opportunities. I am proud to play a small part in our work.”
Shilpa Rao
Director
Customer Experience and Service Design Leader creating systems of care and connection across financial services, healthcare, and community life.
“Nurturing children in their earliest years holds the power to transform lives and society.”
Gautam Bhatia
Director
Background in data governance, transformation, and building scalable solutions across complex organizations, he understands how strong systems can create meaningful and lasting impact.
“Real change happens when leadership is guided not just by strategy and experience, but by humanity, kindness, and the commitment to give every child the opportunity for a brighter future.”
Deepa Prasad
Director
Senior leader in Brand & Content Marketing who leads national campaigns and storytelling initiatives that drive awareness and inspire action around complex social issues. She specializes in shaping impactful narratives that elevate voices while connecting with audiences in meaningful, human-centered ways.
“Nurturing children in their earliest years holds the power to transform lives and society.”
Get in Touch
Have a question or want to get involved? We'd love to hear from you!