Navjyoti was started by Nandlal Master in the Aaraji line block of Varanasi district. Most people in the Aaraji villages, manufacture Banarasi saris. Due to economic challenges, children are forced to join their family business during the day and miss out on school. To help them continue their education, Nandlal Master first started an evening school in 1994 with the joint efforts of the villagers. Later day schools were added due to the positive response. At present, about 800 children are receiving education through ten centres and two formal schools, all run by Navjyoti. The organization also runs vocational training centres and supports various social causes, mostly for women in the community.