For decades, Praveen devoted his career to fighting for the rights of working people, always striving to create a fairer, more just world. His journey in the labour movement was one of commitment and impact. Before joining IndustriALL, he worked extensively in labour research and education, playing a key role in training trade union leaders, mapping industry trends and advocating for vulnerable workers. From his early days at the Maniben Kara Institute, where he conducted extensive research on wages, precarious work and the rights of informal workers, to his impact in major international projects, Praveen’s contributions to the labour movement were deep and far-reaching.
Praveen played an important role in IndustriALL’s work in South Asia. He started in 2014 as a project coordinator, focusing on precarious work, an issue he took on with passion and determination. He believed that every worker deserved dignity, stability and fair treatment, and he worked hard to make that a reality. His commitment continued as he led projects on union building, multinational supply chains and shipbreaking, always with a sense of purpose and justice.
But Praveen’s legacy goes far beyond the work he did, it is the way he did it that people will remember most. He had a quiet strength, a calming presence that reassured those around him. Even in high-pressure situations, he carried himself with grace, showing that stress would not solve problems, but collective action and solidarity could.
Colleagues remember his ever-present smile, his generosity and his willingness to help others. He made a point of expressing gratitude, appreciating those who assisted him just as much as he was always ready to assist others. He embodied the very essence of trade unionism, not just fighting for workers’ rights, but fostering a spirit of mutual support and humanity.
Based in Mumbai, Praveen was genuinely connected to the realities of workers in India and beyond. His work was rooted in a profound understanding of the struggles faced by those in precarious employment in supply chains and in the shipbreaking industry.
This sudden loss is a heavy one for IndustriALL and for the broader labour movement, but more than anything, it is a personal loss for all who had the honour of knowing him. We will remember Praveen not only for his work but for the warmth, kindness and integrity he brought into every interaction.
Praveen leaves behind his beloved wife and sons, who were his greatest pride. Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to them during this difficult time. May they find comfort in knowing how much he was respected, admired and loved by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
In the spirit of solidarity that, we will continue the fight for the values he stood for. And as we mourn, we also celebrate a life well lived, a life dedicated to justice, equality and kindness.
Rest in power, Praveen. Your impact will not be forgotten.