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Shikhar Srivastava (Indian philanthropist)
Shikhar Srivastava (born 8 June 2005) is an Indian philanthropist, social entrepreneur, and medical student. He is the founder of Petals Foundation, a nonprofit working in animal welfare, women’s empowerment, child education, and environmental sustainability. He is also the founder of Zostera, a jewellery brand that operates on a social enterprise model.
| Shikhar Srivastava | |
| |
| Born | 8 June 2005, Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Philanthropist, Entrepreneur, Medical student |
| Years active | 2016–present |
| Known for | Founder of Petals Foundation, Zostera |
| Education | Pursuing MBBS in India |
| Parents | Anita Srivastava, Kuldeep Srivastava |
| Website | petalsfoundation.in |
Early Life and Background
Born in Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, into a family of law and politics, Srivastava was inspired by his mother, lawyer Anita Srivastava, and father, advocate Kuldeep Srivastava.
At age 11, Shikhar survived a shooting incident allegedly linked to political rivalry. This life-changing event fueled his motivation to serve the vulnerable.
His emotional attachments to his late grandmother and pet dog sparked empathy, which eventually led him to serve stray animals, street children, and elderly women without homes or families.
Education
Shikhar chose to pursue medicine, believing that his career should blend healthcare with community service. He is currently pursuing an MBBS degree in India, managing his education alongside Petals Foundation and Zostera operations.
Career
Petals Foundation
Petals Foundation was established in 2016 and now operates in over 42 cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Pune, and Prayagraj. It has international chapters in Bali, Jakarta, San Diego, Virginia, and Nepal.
Its focus areas include: - Animal welfare through feeding, rescue, and adoption - Women’s empowerment via menstrual hygiene awareness and vocational training - Child education through slum schools and resource distribution - Environmental sustainability via tree plantations and urban sanitation
Petals is known for its volunteer-driven, decentralized, and self-sustained structure.[1]
Zostera
Zostera is a socially conscious jewellery and lifestyle startup. It funds Petals Foundation’s operations through its profits, embodying the principles of ethical business and financial independence.
Impact
Shikhar has helped: - Rescue and feed over 100,000 stray animals - Support thousands of homeless and elderly women - Educate and nourish children in underprivileged areas - Conduct menstrual hygiene drives for rural women - Launch tree plantation and sanitation campaigns[2]
Media Recognition
Srivastava has been covered by major media outlets such as:
See Also
External Links
References
- ↑ "How Shikhar Srivastava’s Petals Foundation Is Inspiring a Generation", Forbes India. Retrieved July 2025.
- ↑ "Meet Shikhar Srivastava – The Young Changemaker Behind Petals Foundation’s Global Impact", The Bharat Now. Retrieved July 2025.