Fr. Kulandaisamy is a Jesuit priest and long-standing member of the Grihini Women’s Program, with a strong commitment to social justice, equality and the empowerment of marginalised communities. Growing up in a Christian village affected by caste discrimination, he was inspired by his father’s efforts to challenge caste-based inequality and develop opportunities for Dalits. After joining the Jesuits, he volunteered in villages serving Dalit and Tribal communities and became involved with Grihini after learning about its work among poor women in the Kodaikanal region. Since 1995, he has contributed to various aspects of the Grihini and PEACE programs, including serving as Director of Grihini for seven years, becoming a valued member of the Grihini family and advocating for equality and social change.
Mr.Jeevaraj
Tailoring Teacher
Ms. Nisha
Ms. Ananthi
Residential staff
Accountant 'n' computer tutor
Teaching Staff
Ms.Reena
Fr Kulandaisamy Antony
Dency Michael
Executive Trustee
Dency Michael is a dedicated educator and community leader who has played a significant role in the development and continuation of the Grihini Women’s Program in the Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu. As a teacher at Kodaikanal International School, she became involved with Grihini through her work as a translator for Janice Orrell and was inspired by its commitment to supporting some of the most disadvantaged women in remote villages. As a local member of the community, Dency contributed her time, knowledge and personal support to the program and became deeply committed to its mission of education, empowerment and social change. She has served as the Director of Grihini, working closely with program animators and women in the communities, and has been an important local figure in advancing the program’s vision of equality, education and empowerment for women from marginalised communities.
Fr Anthony James
Program Director
Rev. Fr. James S.J. has dedicated many years to education, pastoral ministry and social work, with a strong connection to the Kodaikanal community. He holds a B.Com from Loyola College, a B.A. in Philosophy, an M.A. in Social Work, and a B.A. in Theology. His ministry and professional journey has taken him through Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Delhi and Sri Lanka, where he has served in education, parish ministry and social development. From 2012 to 2015, he worked in social work at PEAK, Sacred Heart College, Shembagnur, Kodaikanal, followed by pastoral and leadership responsibilities in Sri Lanka and India. In 2023–2024, he served as Director of LISTEN at Sacred Heart College, Kodaikanal, and since 2024, he has been serving as Director of PEAK and Grihini, Sacred Heart College, Shenbaganur, Kodaikanal. His experience in education, social work and community ministry reflects a long-standing commitment to supporting and empowering people and communities.
Fr Arockiam SJ
Fr Arockiam is a Jesuit priest and one of the early members and supporters of the Grihini Women’s Program, where he became known as an “appa” (father) and senior member of the Grihini family. Initially focused on supporting bonded labourers and their rehabilitation, he became involved with Grihini after recognising its potential to address the longstanding educational and social disadvantages faced by Dalit and Tribal women in the Palani Hills. He supported the program by providing access to facilities and helping bring together key people and resources that contributed to making the Grihini vision a reality. His commitment, compassion and support played an important role in encouraging the development of educational opportunities for women who had historically been excluded from formal education.
Fr C Amalraj
Fr Amalraj is one of the early figures associated with the development of the Grihini Women’s Program, serving as a senior mentor and supporter during its formative years. In 1986, he became deeply concerned about the difficult and exploitative conditions faced by women working in the logging camps of the Kodaikanal Hills. Through discussions with Jan Orrell, he helped explore ways to provide these women with protection, confidence, skills and opportunities for greater independence. His vision and commitment contributed to the development of a dedicated educational environment where women could step away from oppressive circumstances, discover their potential and build greater confidence and freedom.
Ms Shanthini
Mr Gilson
Ms. Maheswari
Residential Caregiver
Financial Trustee
Ms. Amali
Health Care
Teaching Staff
Team Members - KMG (India)
KEY MEMBERS GROUP - INDIA