From Shikhar Dhawan to Sachin Tendulkar: 5 Cricketers Who Serve People Through Their NGOs

Last Updated: September 01, 2025, 20:28 IST

Cricketers are celebrated for their talent on the field, but many of them also shine through their efforts off it—by giving back to society. Several Indian cricket icons have established NGOs and foundations to support education, healthcare, and community welfare. Here are five cricketers who continue to serve people through their impactful initiatives:

1 / 10 Shikhar Dhawan – Shikhar Dhawan Foundation (SDF): Shikhar Dhawan’s SDF has become a strong pillar of social work. With programs like Digital Shiksha (smart panel installations in schools), Livelihood on Wheels (vocational empowerment units), and smartphone donation drives, the foundation uplifts underserved communities.

(File Photo)

2 / 10 It also supports healthcare, environmental initiatives, and animal welfare, showcasing Dhawan’s vision for inclusive progress. (PC: X)

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3 / 10 Virat Kohli – Virat Kohli Foundation (VKF): Through the Virat Kohli Foundation, India’s former captain champions the cause of underprivileged children and emerging athletes. (AFP image)

4 / 10 VKF funds education, healthcare, and sports development while providing mentorship to young talents. By collaborating with NGOs like Smile Foundation, Kohli ensures that his resources reach communities that need them the most.

(Picture credit: AP)

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5 / 10 Yuvraj Singh – YouWeCan (YWC): Yuvraj Singh turned his personal battle with cancer into a mission to help others by launching YouWeCan. The NGO spreads awareness, funds early detection, and provides treatment support for cancer patients. (Picture Credit: AFP)

6 / 10 It also empowers children through education and entrepreneurship programs, making YWC a platform of hope for countless families.

(PC: Instagram)

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7 / 10 Sachin Tendulkar – Sachin Tendulkar Foundation (STF): Sachin Tendulkar, often called the “God of Cricket,” extends his legacy into philanthropy with the Sachin Tendulkar Foundation. STF focuses on healthcare, education, and grassroots sports development.

(PC: AP)

8 / 10 From sponsoring life-saving surgeries to improving school infrastructures and donating sports kits, Tendulkar continues to touch lives with humility and compassion.

(Picture Credit: AP)

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9 / 10 MS Dhoni – MS Dhoni Charitable Foundation: MS Dhoni’s NGO works to uplift communities through education, health, and welfare initiatives. The MS Dhoni Charitable Foundation has supported army veterans, organized fundraisers for hospitals, and contributed to disaster relief efforts. (PC: AFP)

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