Praveen Nair, noted social worker, philanthropist and the mother of acclaimed filmmaker Mira Nair, has died at the age of 94. Best known for her lifelong work in child welfare, Praveen Nair co-founded the Salaam Baalak Trust, an organisation dedicated to supporting underprivileged street children. She was also the inspiration behind New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani's 2019 viral rap song, "Nani", which celebrated their close grandmother-grandson relationship.

Before establishing Salaam Baalak Trust, Praveen Nair spent several years working in the development sector and was associated with organisations including the Red Cross and other social welfare groups. Her commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable children became even stronger after the release of Mira Nair's internationally acclaimed 1988 film "Salaam Bombay!", which highlighted the harsh realities faced by street children in Mumbai.

The success and impact of "Salaam Bombay!" inspired Praveen Nair to translate the film's message into sustained social action. Later in 1988, she co-founded Salaam Baalak Trust alongside Mira Nair, Anjou Chopra and Sanjoy K. Roy. The organisation has since worked to provide education, shelter, healthcare and rehabilitation for thousands of children living on the streets, becoming one of India's most recognised child welfare initiatives.

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Praveen Nair also gained wider public attention after becoming the inspiration for Zohran Mamdani's rap track "Nani", released under his stage name Mr Cardamom. The song was a tribute to his maternal grandmother and celebrated her personality and influence. Veteran actor and celebrity chef Madhur Jaffrey portrayed "Nani" in the music video after agreeing to participate following a meeting with Mamdani arranged through their mutual friend, actor Poorna Jagannathan.

Remembered for both her compassion and wit, Praveen Nair left a lasting legacy in social service and child welfare. One of her most memorable public moments came during the 1988 Cannes Film Festival, where "Salaam Bombay!" was screened. Mistakenly believed by photographers to be an actor from the film, she reportedly responded with characteristic humour, saying, "I'm the producer of the director!" Her contributions to philanthropy and the welfare of disadvantaged children continue to be reflected in the enduring work of Salaam Baalak Trust.

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