Evidence & Knowledge

Research & Publications

A site of knowledge production attracting global academic attention through our survivor-led impact model.

Knowledge Production

Grounding Activism in Research

Red Brigade Lucknow is not only a grassroots organisation — it is a site of knowledge production. Our model, NISHASTRA technique, and survivor-leadership approach have attracted serious academic attention from India and across the world.

Academic Evaluation

Research

Academic Study

Self Defense and Sexual Violence Prevention

This landmark research provides the first empirical validation of what Red Brigade has demonstrated for over a decade: that prevention through training meaningfully reduces violence.

Institution Azim Premji University, India
Key Finding Lower rates of sexual violence in areas where NISHASTRA is prevalent.
Significance Primary evidence used for national self-defense policy advocacy.

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Global Recognition

Publications & Media

Published Book

'Women in Red' — The Journey

A deep narrative and visual documentation of Red Brigade's evolution, members, and the profound impact of our survivor-led movement.

Author Eva J.
Publisher Blurb
Format Visual & Narrative

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International Profile

A Celebration of Women

Recognized on an international platform profiling global women leaders and documenting their contributions to societal change.

Profile Usha Vishwakarma
Date October 2013

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Media Publication

Led by survivor, 'Red Brigade' empowers women

The Red Brigade now has 100 girls, most of them survivors. It has trained over 1.57 lakh girls in martial arts since 2011.

Publisher The New Indian Express
Date September 2020

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International Media

India’s Red Brigade

Violence against women in India is widespread. But one group of girls has found a way to deal with the culprits. Meet the Red Brigade.

Publisher Deutsche Welle (DW)
Date March 2016

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Media Publication

Teaching women self defence, never backing down

Usha Vishwakarma's Red Brigade Lucknow develops techniques to help women defend themselves from harassment or assault.

Publisher Forbes India
Date March 2020

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Media Publication

Ugly Incident Ended Up Saving Thousands

Red Brigade, which addresses the issue of sexual violence in India, is the brainchild of gutsy Usha Vishwakarma, a survivor of attempted rape herself.

Publisher The Better India
Date November 2015

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