About

Varda Mehrotra is a systems thinker and movement builder working to reimagine human-animal relationships. With over two decades of experience, Varda leads Samayu, an organization committed to finding solutions at the intersections of animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and public health.

Before co-founding Samayu, Varda served as the Executive Director of the Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisations (FIAPO), helping it grow into a collective voice for animals in India. Her approach combines grassroots mobilization, evidence-driven advocacy, and partnerships that address systemic issues in animal agriculture and food systems.

In addition to her work at Samayu, Varda contributes to broader movements as a Board Member of Animal Alliance Asia and Lily’s Voice, a Founding Board Member of Thrive Philanthropy, and an Advisor to Remaking One Health: Indies. Across these roles, she focuses on building intersectional solutions that benefit animals, people, and the planet.

Varda has written papers and opinion pieces exploring the complexities of food systems, animal welfare, and systems change. Her work reflects a curiosity for how power and culture shape the world around us, particularly in sustaining oppression for animals.

When she’s not working, Varda enjoys the simple things: long walks with her dogs, yoga, and playful moments of art and music—reminders of joy and balance amid the chaos.