The inspiration behind Badlav dates back to 2003 when Sharad Patel came to Lucknow from his village to pursue higher studies. Outside the railway station, he saw many people including children begging for food and money, some also using intoxicants openly. This was new for him, as no one begged in his village. The scene made him feel worried and pushed him to think deeply about their lives and struggles. He also noticed a clear difference in how food was given in different public worship places. In Gurudwaras, langar was served with respect, equality, and kindness. But in many temples & mosques, food was given outside in a way that did not respect the identity of the homeless, disabled, or those involved in the act of begging. This image stayed with him and troubled him for a long time.

In 2013, a moment changed everything. An individual begging asked Sharad for ten rupees. Instead of giving money, he took him to a small hotel and bought him puri-sabji. The man’s weak voice, torn clothes and tired face deeply moved him. Sharad realized that giving food once can help for a day, but teaching skills can change a life. He felt that if people engaged in the act of begging were trained in livelihood skills like farming or small trades, they could restore their identity with dignity and become self-reliant.

With this thought, on 2nd October 2014, Sharad, along with his classmate Jai Deep Kumar Rawat and Mahendra Pratap, started Bhikshavratti Mukt Abhiyan-an initiative to support people leave begging and move towards a better life. After about one year of implementation of this initiative, on 15 September 2015 Sharad along with Jaideep Kumar Rawat, Mahendra Pratap & Chunni Lal founded Badlav.