Gulabi Gang was founded by Mrs. Sampat Pal Devi in the Bundelkhand region of Uttar Pradesh, one of India's most economically and socially disadvantaged regions. For decades, Bundelkhand has faced widespread poverty, caste-based discrimination, gender inequality, illiteracy, unemployment, and violence against women.

The movement was established to empower women and girls, combat domestic and gender-based violence, and promote justice, dignity, equality, and equal opportunities. In many rural communities, women continue to face discrimination, child marriage, dowry-related abuse, domestic violence, and economic dependence. Through Gulabi Gang, millions of women have gained the confidence to stand up against injustice, become aware of their rights, and emerge as active leaders within their communities.

Over the years, the movement has expanded across all districts of Uttar Pradesh and has also extended its presence to other states of India. Its strongest presence is in the districts of Mahoba, Hamirpur, Prayagraj, Lalitpur, Banda, Chitrakoot, and Fatehpur, where millions of people continue to face significant socio-economic challenges.

Today, approximately 1.4 million women, recognized by their iconic pink saris, are associated with the movement. Most of these women come from economically disadvantaged and marginalized communities and possess valuable skills such as sewing, embroidery, Zardozi, Chikankari, handicrafts, food processing, cooking, and other traditional livelihoods. Many of them joined Gulabi Gang after receiving support, guidance, and inspiration from Mrs. Sampat Pal Devi, and have since become advocates for women's empowerment themselves.

After more than two decades of grassroots social activism, Gulabi Seva Sansthan (GSS) was formally registered as a charitable and social organization during 2024–2025 at Rauly Kalyanpur, Chitrakoot District, Uttar Pradesh. The organization was established to strengthen the Gulabi Gang movement through a structured institutional framework, professional staff, and dedicated volunteers. GSS implements sustainable development programs focused on women's empowerment, education, livelihood generation, healthcare, legal awareness, social justice, and community development.