Akhil Srivastava
Founder – Golden Eye Chef
Managing Trustee – Antardrishti, Agra
About Akhil
Akhil Srivastava is a passionate social innovator, designer, and advocate for inclusion and accessibility. Based in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, he is the Founder of Golden Eye Chef, the world’s first and only global culinary competition for the blind and visually impaired, and the Managing Trustee of Antardrishti, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering blind and low-vision individuals.
With over 28 years of grassroots experience, Akhil uses design and technology to simplify lives and challenge disability stereotypes. His philosophy — “If you want to enjoy, make it simple” — runs through every initiative he leads, from inclusive culinary platforms to creative awareness campaigns. Whether he’s building tools for empowerment or capturing social stories through his lens, Akhil’s work reflects a rare blend of creativity, empathy, and impact.
Vision & Mission
Akhil’s mission is to create a world where disability never limits dignity or opportunity. Through accessible platforms, collaborative programs, and community-driven campaigns, he promotes independence, visibility, and inclusion for the visually impaired.
Key Initiatives
- Antardrishti (est. 2006)
A registered public charitable trust working toward the social, economic, and digital inclusion of the blind. The organization runs accessibility training, inclusive tech tools, and public awareness campaigns on eye care and eye donation. - Drishti Creative Contest (2011–2017)
A national-level campaign to promote eye donation awareness through creativity. The contest gathered:- 80 short films (in various languages and genres)
- 1268 posters73 graphic designs
- 31 audio jingles
Making it one of India’s most content-rich creative awareness campaigns.
- Drishti-Connect (Currently on Pause)
A tech-based volunteer network that paired sighted volunteers with visually impaired individuals to assist in reading, commuting, exam writing, and daily tasks. - Golden Eye Chef (2019–Present)
Started as a national event in India and grew into the world’s first and only global culinary competition for the blind and visually impaired by 2022. It celebrates talent over sight and provides a dignified stage for visually impaired chefs to showcase their creativity and independence.
Notable Campaigns
- Drishti Yatra – Eye Donation Awareness Campaign (2008–2018)
A decade-long national movement that reached thousands through school programs, street plays, and public outreach to spread awareness about eye donation and preventable blindness.
Creative Pursuits
Beyond his social ventures, Akhil is a passionate photographer and nature lover, especially drawn to the Himalayas. He captures powerful visuals of nature, wildlife, and social themes, though he hasn’t launched a dedicated photography page. His lens, much like his work, is grounded in empathy and truth.