Source: Humans of Bombay

“When my father passed away, life became hell for my mother and 3 sisters. My mothers’ as well as fathers’ family began looking down upon as a burden– and in order to make ends meet, my mother became a sex worker. My mama would often pay a part of our rent and as result began thinking that he had a control over us – we would be beaten, if we were seen outside the house without a burka. My father was Muslim too, but he was never against our education, or not wearing the burkha.

Finally, my mother took the step of sending us sisters to a hostel, but that was a terrible experience where we would be starved for making small mistakes. After 8 long years, we came to Kranti where we’re happy…here, we’re given therapy and confidence. My mother’s family questions where we are– they think she sold us to the flesh trade, but really she’s protecting us and our future.

Today, I’m a Teacher at Teach for India. I know and understand these children better than anyone, because I know what it’s like. So many of them come from troubled backgrounds, and I’m trying to give them the confidence to continue studying. So many times when I see them smiling at me, I feel relieved — but there’s so much more to do, not only for children like me but for those sex workers who more often than not don’t have a choice.”