Sakshi S. Kamath: A Guardian Angel Turning Compassion into Action, One Paw at a Time
A Childhood Love That Became a Lifelong Mission
Nominated for the Abhaya Dasabhuja Award 2026, Sakshi S. Kamath has transformed her lifelong love for animals into a mission of rescue, rehabilitation and compassionate care. Growing up in Hirgana, Karkala, she was deeply influenced by her parents’ affection for animals. That early connection eventually became a commitment spanning more than a decade.
From Compassion to a Movement for the Voiceless
Sakshi has dedicated over 10 years to rescuing stray and abandoned animals, supported by donors who share her belief in giving vulnerable lives a second chance. Her passion led to the creation of Asare Animal Trust, with “Asare” signifying shelter for those without support.
Under her leadership, the Trust works to rescue orphaned, injured, sick and abandoned street animals, provide them care and rehabilitation, and help them find safe and loving homes. The initiative has grown into a sustained effort to address animal suffering at the grassroots level.
Thousands of Second Chances
In a decade of service, Asare Animal Trust has rescued more than 1,500 animals, fostered over 150, and helped place more than 2,000 cats and dogs in permanent homes. Overall, the initiative has facilitated the free adoption of around 5,000 animals, giving them opportunities for safer and more dignified lives.
The Trust also conducts free or low-cost spay and neuter programmes throughout the year, helping address stray-animal population growth and prevent further suffering on the streets.
Compassion with a Larger Purpose
Sakshi’s approach to service is rooted in empathy, perseverance and action. She sees every rescued animal not merely as a case, but as a life deserving care, dignity and another chance.
She remains committed to rescuing more sick, injured and abandoned animals, nursing them back to health and connecting them with responsible families. Her journey is a powerful reminder that compassion becomes transformative when it is sustained by courage and action.
For Sakshi, every rescue is a second chance and every act of kindness is a step towards a kinder society. One paw at a time, she continues to turn compassion into hope.
