Meet the team

Rahul and his rescued dog, Bumbalan, sharing a special bond.

Rahul Hirani

“Even though my friends say I’m crazy, I feel there’s no choice when facing an animal in need.”

My years-long search for meaning ended when I settled down in Wayanad in 2019. As an advocate, I was always triggered by seeing injustice, so when I saw innocent animals being mistreated and dumped on the streets here, my natural response was to come to their aid ‒ The most vivid case I remember was when I found my first Wayanad-dog Chimbulu.

One fateful morning I was walking home from the milkman when I noticed a very skinny black puppy following me. Somehow I felt I just had to hold him once. Just once. Alas, I fell in love instantly as the little one just kept licking my face and smiling cheekily at me. I was defeated. He was the first of many more to come, and Chimbulu was the first one to open my door with his muddy little paws, never leaving my side since. Whenever I go through a tough time, Chimbulu always comes and puts his head on my chest, assuring me that he will always be there for me, through thick and thin.

Even though my friends say I’m crazy, I feel there’s no choice when facing a dog or cat in need. How can I turn my back on them? By now, my house itself has turned into a shelter for a sizable dog pack. Still, my background in business made me realise I needed to think ahead, as my house could only host so many dogs. We had to go bigger to address the suffering, hunger, and abuse I saw around me every single day.

Therefore, my sister Rhea and I started hosting a series of medical camps from 2023 onwards, during which several hundreds of animals were sterilised and vaccinated. During these, I realised that the scope of our work should be expanded even further to help more animals in need.

Paws in Wayanad was born out of our deep passion for working with the innocent and voiceless; to provide dignity and care to the lives of Wayanad’s dogs and cats.

Rhea Hirani

Growing up surrounded by animals, I learned how deeply they enrich our lives. But I’ve also seen how often their voices go unheard. Their well-being lies close to my heart, and I’m honoured to make a difference — to protect, care for, and advocate for those who can’t do it themselves.

Vipin Lal

Every creature deserves a life free from suffering and it’s our responsibility as a society to care for the animals around us. They can’t raise their voices, so it’s up to us to speak for them and ensure they get the compassion and care they deserve.

Malar Subramanian

Working with animals is a constant reminder to appreciate the present moment. Whether they suddenly fly through the air while playing or give that insistent nudge for affection; they have an unending ability to ground you in the here and now, sharing their world of simple joy.

Jayanti Tambi

The plight of animals facing violence and neglect is a stark reality we can’t ignore. I have been engaged in social work since the age of 12 and rarely saw such a genuine movement as Paws in Wayanad, only interested in serving the cause and I feel honoured to be a part of it.

Nidhi Shah

In the midst of the beautiful nature of Wayanad, it’s the plight of stray animals that stands out. It’s our duty as humans to make sure that they have a good life too. Paws in Wayanad is doing it with a compassionate approach, combined with the right knowledge that will help change lives.

Jithin Jojee

I joined Paws in Wayanad because I felt a deep connection to their mission. Seeing the animals in need and knowing I could make a difference ignited a sense of purpose within me. It’s a privilege to contribute to their well-being and be of service to the local community.