MEET OUR FOUNDER
S.Basavaraj
Founder – Basavamarga Foundation
Chairman – Indian TV
Basavamarga Foundation, located on the Ring Road in Hebbal, Mysuru, has emerged as one of the region’s most respected and effective de-addiction and rehabilitation centres. Established with a strong purpose and a deep commitment to social welfare, the organization continues to grow under the visionary leadership of Basavanna, whose dedication and compassion inspire everyone associated with the mission.
At Basavamarga, every team member treats individuals struggling with addiction as part of their own family, working tirelessly to restore hope, dignity, and stability in their lives.
To date, the Foundation has successfully conducted 47 free alcohol-cessation camps, benefiting over 10,000 individuals across the state. Thousands have fully overcome their addiction and are now living fulfilling lives with their families, becoming role models for others on the path to recovery.
Through these continuous efforts, Basavanna and the Basavamarga Foundation remain committed to building an addiction-free society, creating lasting positive change one life at a time.
A Journey from Struggle to Service – The Story of S. Basavaraju
S. Basavaraju, driven by a powerful vision of social service and the dream of creating an addiction-free society, comes from a humble and respected family in K.G. Koppal, Mysuru. He is the grandson of M. Soni Karigowda and Basamma, and the son of K. Srinivas, a retired Revenue Officer, and Smt. Chennamma.
Life, however, was not easy in his early years. As the second son in the family, Basavaraju—affectionately known as Basavanna—studied up to the 10th standard. During this period, influenced by negative peer circles and an unhealthy environment, he fell into the trap of alcoholism at a very young age. The addiction slowly tightened its grip, leading to setbacks, financial loss in business, and a period of deep personal struggle.
But destiny had a turning point waiting for him.
In 2015, Basavanna entered a phase of transformation. While accompanying individuals suffering from addiction to rehabilitation centres, he witnessed their battles, their pain, and ultimately, their transformation. He saw people break free from alcohol, rebuild their lives, and reclaim their families and dreams. These powerful stories touched him deeply.
He not only supported them emotionally but also helped many financially to restart their livelihoods after recovery. Seeing their renewed hope ignited a profound change within him. Their courage became his inspiration. Their determination became his motivation. Slowly, Basavanna found the strength to step away from addiction himself.
This personal awakening shaped his life’s mission.
Determined to ensure that no one else should suffer the way he once did, Basavanna dedicated himself to guiding others towards freedom from addiction. With this renewed purpose, he organized his first free alcohol-cessation camp on 27 October 2019—marking the beginning of a larger movement toward healing, dignity, and social upliftment.
From a young boy who once struggled in silence to a leader who now uplifts thousands, Basavanna’s journey stands as a testament to resilience, compassion, and the power of second chances. His life continues to inspire countless individuals to believe that change is always possible, no matter how difficult the path may seem.
A Turning Point: Basavanna’s Awakening and His Journey Out of Addiction
There comes a moment in every person’s life when the inner voice speaks louder than the world around them. For Basavanna, this moment arrived on the eve of the very first alcohol-cessation camp he had organized.
Despite arranging the camp for others, he himself continued to drink until the night before. Standing at this crossroads, a powerful question struck his conscience:
“How can I ask others to quit drinking when I myself have not let it go?”
This single thought shook him to the core.
With courage and honesty, Basavanna made a life-changing decision. He entered the camp not as an organizer, but as a disciplined participant, determined to reclaim his life. Through unwavering commitment and inner strength, he emerged from the camp free from 17 years of alcoholism.
This personal victory filled him with a deep sense of purpose. He resolved that the hope and transformation he experienced should reach every person trapped in addiction. With this mission, he founded Basavamarga Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping individuals break free from alcohol dependence and rebuild their lives.
Transforming Lives, One Camp at a Time
Since its inception, Basavamarga has organized 47 free alcohol-cessation camps, touching the lives of more than 10,000 individuals across the state. Thousands have successfully overcome addiction and are now living happy, responsible, and dignified lives with their families.
Many former addicts have become role models, inspiring others with their journey toward recovery.
Through these efforts, Basavanna and the Basavamarga Foundation continue to work tirelessly to create an addiction-free society, offering hope where it is needed the most.
Achievements & Activities
