All activities of the Shanthimalai Trust are the expression of the living compassion realised by the founders of the Shanthimalai Trust, Dr. Hugo Maier and Anne Maier: “Oppressed by misery and sorrow, enfeebled by suffering and want, man is paralyzed through his hopelessness. He can‘t think of anything but of his survival. In this situation, how can he turn to the higher values of life? Even the memory of them has disappeared. Having lost all faith in himself, he flees into the abyss of disbelief and superstition. The true meaning of financial help is to enable man to find out of this dull state, with its inherent fatalism. When man finds back to himself, he finds also back to his fellow beings, through re-awakened love for his neighbor! He is, once more, capable of living up to a real community life.
Only when a man knows himself as a self-confident individual, will he be able to make efforts by his own initiative to grow into his true spiritual identity. This is the ultimate aim of our material aid – that man rediscovers who he truly is, not that he loses himself once again in newly-found material well-being. When money dominates man‘s life, he is enshrouded in darkest ignorance. When it is shared, it becomes a blessing for both the helper and the helped – for the giver, as well as for the receiver. In life, it often seems that the spirit of complacency, passivity and despair, is the mightier power. But the spirit of truth, commitment and compassion has always the longer breath. To help the people here truly requires the longer breath, which can only arise from this spirit of truth, commitment and compassion. This spirit alone can bring up projects which are of lasting value.”
We strive to transform the lives of underprivileged children by providing a holistic development space beyond academic performance, nurturing their well-being at a physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual level.
To provide children with a safe, inclusive and supportive community where they can learn, unfold their full potential and talents, grow happily into self-reliant and socially responsible beings. To treat all children equally regardless of caste, social status, religion, race, etc., and honour and celebrate all their efforts and achievements.
To foster in children rich cultural and fundamental values of life, such as respect for elders, parents and teachers and for a clean, pollution-free environment; to promote love and compassion towards their fellow beings and thereby inculcate a feeling of brotherhood towards peaceful co-existence
We embrace inclusivity and respect for all, fostering empowerment and compassion in every child. We celebrate achievements and promote sustainability, nurturing socially responsible individuals who contribute positively to their communities. Together, we create a harmonious environment where every child can thrive.
Foster a culture of high academic standards where all students are encouraged to reach their full potential. Promote the social, emotional, and physical well-being of students along side academic achievement. Implement innovative teaching methods and technology to enhance the learning experience and prepare students for the future. Instill a love of learning that encourages students to be curious, creative thinkers throughout their lives. Develop leadership skills and a sense of responsibility in students, preparing them to be active, informed citizens.
Correspondent, Shanthimalai Schools
Managing Trustee, SRDT
At Shanthimalai Schools, education is not just about learning from books — it is a journey of personal growth and holistic development. Rooted in the vision to uplift underprivileged children through care that nurtures every dimension of their being, our approach goes far beyond academics — supporting children as whole, evolving individuals.
Guided by the teachings of Bhagawan Sri Ramana Maharshi, we believe children are born to be happy, and education must preserve that happiness while cultivating compassion, clarity, and self-reliance. We do not follow traditional rote learning methods. Our well-trained teachers offer concept-based, meaningful learning experiences that spark curiosity and confidence. The curriculum fosters a natural connection with Arunachala, nurturing self-awareness, inner strength, and a quiet sense of belonging.
