Rekha* had never held a book in her hands until she landed in jail. Life had been unkind from the start. Her husband had married another woman and left Rekha to care for their two young sons without any financial or emotional support. Struggling to survive and feed her children, she was desperate. One day, someone handed her a packet of brown sugar, and without understanding the full consequences, she tried to sell it. She was caught and sent to Byculla Jail under the NDPS Act. Inside, Rekha was filled with fear and regret. She had no idea what would happen to her or her children. She would sit in a corner, cry silently, and think about her sons every day.
It was during this difficult time that Sahaara’s team began adult literacy classes at the jail. Rekha joined the class and shared her story. When offered the chance to learn how to read and write, she agreed immediately. She showed determination and interest in every session. Over time, she not only began to read and write but also opened up emotionally, gaining the strength to hope again.
Sahaara staff supported her case and followed up in court. They also checked on her sons to ensure their safety. Eventually, Rekha was granted bail. After her release, she connected with Sahaara again, this time for support in rebuilding her life. She joined a tailoring course in an institute with the help of Sahaara and completed it with dedication. Seeing her hard work, the team gave her a sewing machine. This allowed her to start her own tailoring business from home.
Rekha also resumed her sons’ education. When she could not afford school fees and uniforms, Sahaara stepped in to cover the costs. Today, both boys are back in school and doing well. Rekha continues to benefit from the adult literacy classes run by Sahaara. She can now read important documents, help her sons with schoolwork, and manage her finances.
Rekha’s life has taken a new direction. With no family support, she has done everything on her own—but with Sahaara’s help, she no longer feels alone. Her confidence has grown, and she now dreams of expanding her tailoring business. She wants to become financially independent and raise her children to have a better life.
“I am extremely happy today because I never imagined I would be able to provide a good life for my children. This was only possible because of Sahaara NGO,” Rekha shared with gratitude.
She now dreams of giving her sons a future full of possibilities and making sure they never have to face the difficulties she went through.
(Names changed to protect identities.)