KhelMel (previously Monkey Sports), is a rural-based social impact organisation working with children aged 8-15 years from marginalised communities. The name KhelMel combines two Hindi words: “Khel”, meaning play or sports, and “Mel”, meaning social connectedness.
We use sports not just as physical activity or competition, but as a safe and nurturing space where children experience a sense of belonging, build strong relationships, and develop a sense of ownership in their community.
When we first began working in the Krishnapur community, only 2 out of 20 children who came to play were girls. By addressing barriers such as bullying and teasing, participation has grown to 112 children, with 60% of them being girls.
We’ve developed training modules and monitoring tools that support effective Sport for Development partnerships. These systems have helped us train 114 coaches and deliver programs in 50+ communities across four states.
children directly impacted through the community program
children impacted through partnership with other NGOs
communities through direct and indirect intervention
volunteers, coaches and facilitators trained
CASE STUDY
CASE STUDY
CASE STUDY
Each year, we review our progress through reports that document the children reached, communities supported, and partnerships strengthened through sport and play.
ANNUAL REPORT
We have been running our community sports programme in Raigarh for the past four and a half years. It was only last year that we rented a space in the community to set up our office. We also hired five new team members. Some came and went, while others decided to stay and become part of the journey.
ANNUAL REPORT
A year of resilience and learning, documenting how inclusive sports, emotional well-being, and gender equity are shaping safer, stronger childhoods. It brings together data, reflections, and lived experiences from the communities we work with.
Project and MEAL Leadership, Catholic Relief Services
My experience with the organisation was largely positive. The sports-for-development module was well-prepared and shared on time, enabling smooth implementation. Feedback was acted upon promptly, showing responsiveness to field needs. The process was professionally managed and aligned with CRS standards, ensuring impact and effectiveness. While early-stage communication had a few gaps, the overall commitment to quality and adaptability significantly contributed to the program’s success.
Practice-Delivery Head, Senior Director
I have been attached with Monkey Sports since 2023, and with Kushal (Founder, Monkey Sports) from around 8-10 years. I observed that the team is working very closely with the community children, bringing them together to play different sports, helping them understand different emotions and not only cope but handle them with the best possible response, focusing on gender equality giving opportunities to girls who otherwise are expected to stay at home and take care of their siblings/home. Excellent work for the society.
