Neha* was born in the red-light area of Turbhe, where her mother worked in the sex trade. Her early childhood was marked by long hours spent alone in a small, crowded room while her mother worked outside. With no one to care for her during the day, Neha faced serious risks. The red-light area was full of strangers, unsafe surroundings, and constant exposure to adults involved in harmful activities. At such a young age, she was vulnerable to neglect, abuse, and emotional insecurity.
When Neha was enrolled at a Balwadi (preschool) run by Sahaara, the staff quickly noticed her intelligence and enthusiasm. Despite her tough surroundings, she showed great promise. The team began counselling her mother, encouraging her to consider a safer and more structured environment for Neha to grow. After months of patient conversations, her mother finally agreed, and in November 2012, four-year-old Neha was admitted to Sahaara’s Anandalay Girl’s Hostel.
The first few weeks at the hostel were difficult for Neha. She cried frequently and missed her mother terribly. But over time, with patient care, nutritious food, and a loving environment, she began to feel secure. She made friends and adjusted to the daily routine of hostel life. The staff supported her in every area—emotionally, academically, and socially. She was admitted into a good English-medium school and received tutoring at the hostel.
Neha was introduced to activities like singing, painting, craft, and dance. Dance quickly became her favourite. She would practice on her own, create her own steps, and soon began choreographing for others. Her love for dance gave her confidence and a voice. She even started teaching her peers in the hostel and at school.
As the years went by, Neha became more responsible. She began helping younger girls and managing her own space well. At school, in March 2025, among 1,000 students, she was recognised for her helpful nature and leadership skills and was appointed Eco Leader—a role that involved keeping the school clean and encouraging others to care for their surroundings.
Today, Neha is a confident and creative teenager with big dreams. “I love dancing, and I want to continue learning and teaching it,” she said. “But I also want to become a software engineer or an actress and support my mother one day.” Her mother shared, “I never thought my daughter would get such a chance. Sahaara gave her a life I couldn’t have imagined.”
Thanks to the care and guidance at Anandalay Hostel, Neha now has a strong foundation and a future filled with possibilities. She is determined not only to succeed for herself but also to bring dignity and stability to her mother’s life.
(Names changed to protect identities.)