Danish (owner and manager) 
Danish left home aged 7 and for the rest of his early life followed an unusual journey of survival and independence. That journey included a number of years with Salaam Baalak Trust, but only a few months in regular school; something which made him all the more proud when in 2014 he graduated from Delhi University through English medium.
In 2009, together with Nick, he set up and then managed a flat for volunteers coming to SBT. Danish has not only designed and produced jute craft (macrame), but has given workshops teaching this craft to rural women’s groups in different states in India. He was also one of the early tour guides on the City Walk.

This stylish and unique place sets the stage for a memorable trip. The Diya Bed & Breakfast is a homestay with a twist in the centre of Delhi. Stay where your hosts are young beneficiaries of Salaam Baalak Trust, a local NGO working for street children. We are tucked in to the narrow lanes of Paharganj, but once inside we can offer you comfortable beds, a quiet night, personal attention, a small roof terrace, and a touch of Old Delhi Haveli style. Because it’s run by people who care. Diya B&B has been set up by beneficiaries and supporters of Salaam Baalak Trust and a related non-profit Street Connections. An earlier version of Diya B&B that ran nearby for 5 years was highly recommended by Lonely Planet. We gave guests a personal welcome and helped them with practical queries; we employed former street children from the Trust, and we funded the planting of a mini-forest.

For something different Paharganj is famous for Delhi’s budget hotel quarter: a great central location, but with very few rooms you’d choose to hang around in. At Diya you can enjoy a quirky touch of old Delhi haveli style and a few posh South Delhi features, but at a fraction of the cost of staying in a converted haveli or upscale boutique hotel. Perhaps because you would appreciate some of those comforts without being cut off from the real city; you might like to learn about the Delhi beyond India Gate and the Qutub Minar.