The inception of Ladli Foundation is deeply rooted in the Shagun initiative, inspired by the personal journey of its founder, Devendra Kumar—a self-made grassroots social worker who emerged from the depths of a crime-ridden slum. Abandoned by his parents at the age of two along with his infant sister, he grew up in extreme poverty, facing countless hardships. In 2010, his struggle to save his sister from child marriage and dowry, while navigating life’s vulnerabilities, became the driving force behind his mission to uplift marginalized communities. Determined to bring change, he founded Ladli Foundation to support those facing similar struggles.

On November 24, 2012, just months after establishing the foundation, he organized the first Shagun mass wedding event in Gurgaon, ensuring that financial constraints and dowry demands never stand in the way of a dignified marriage. The event was graced by Maha Mandleshwar Swami Dharam Dev Ji, who blessed the newlywed couples for a prosperous future. This initiative laid the foundation for a transformative movement, empowering countless families and redefining social security for the most vulnerable. The event not only brought together couples in a sacred union but also gave them hope, dignity, and a new beginning, free from the burden of financial and societal pressures.