K. Aruna, the founder of Swadharma Foundation, hails from Coimbatore where her journey in social service began long before she formalised her efforts under the foundation’s name. Aruna's path was always leading toward something greater, even if the destination wasn't clear at first. "I was always drawn to doing things that felt meaningful, even if I didn't fully understand why," she reflects. This innate calling gave rise to the Swadharma Foundation—a testament to her belief that every individual is born with a unique purpose, or 'Swadharma,' that they must uncover and embrace. 

Swadharma, a Sanskrit term meaning “purpose of life”, encapsulates the vision of Aruna’s Vision. “We are all born with Swadharma but we are often distracted by materalistic things” she explains. The name was not just a choice, but a calling, a spark that ignited a fire within her. She wanted everything to align with a higher purpose, a universal truth she belived that everyone should seek. “Everyone has a talent. When we identify it, and take our life, we will get extreme happiness and success” she says.  

But the journey of establishing Swadharma was not easy at all for her. Aruna faced her face of challenges. The road to officially registering Swadharma as a foundation had its own challenges and hurdles of starting the foundation with no funds. “When I first started the foundation, I didn’t know anything about it. But as soon as i got the information, I registered within a week,” she recalls. It was unplanned, born out of necessity and passion.  

Swadharma has broken the mould of traditional social activities. It’s first event was screening of a film—’Iravin Nizhal’ for visually challenged individuals. “I wanted to break the stereotype of social activities being just about food and clothing,” Aruna said. The event, despite the logical struggle, was a success, earning media attention and an invitation from the film’s director himself, the renowned Parthiban sir from Chennai. This recognition was a turning point for Aruna and her foundation.  

One of the most unforgettable stories from Aruna’s journey is that of Vedhan, a six year old boy who could not walk. Through the foundation’s efforts and support of Sahai Rehab, Vedhan took his first steps. “His mother was crying. ‘My son, who could not walk at six years, today, for the first time, he is able to walk,” Aruna recalls her voice tinged with emotion. “Vedhan is my inspiration. Kids like him keeps me going” she said. This moment, more than any other day, sums up the impact of Swadharma —a life changed, a family’s hope restored.  

Aruna’s future plan for Swadharma is expansive. She aims to identify and nurture the talents like dance and sports of children with disabilities that often goes unnoticed. “We want to properly identify such kids and give them the proper training they need” she shares.