India’s prostitution villages | Documentary

In certain regions of rural India, sex work has become an ingrained way of life for numerous women hailing from marginalized communities. These women often find themselves compelled to enter this profession due to the prevailing Indian caste system and deeply rooted biases that create obstacles for their families to break free from the clutches of poverty. For many, engaging in sex work represents the sole means of earning a livelihood in the face of these challenges.

Interestingly, the practice of sex work in specific Indian villages has taken on an intergenerational aspect, where mothers and even grandmothers have been involved in the same trade. Historically, these women belonged to ethnic groups that primarily worked as performers. However, during the era of British colonial rule, these ethnic groups were criminalized, and this stigma continues to affect them today. This has led to difficulties for men from these groups in finding regular employment, effectively making the female members of the family the primary earners. Consequently, these women have taken on responsibilities such as acquiring loans, constructing homes, and making important decisions—a departure from the norm in Indian society.

Our dedicated reporters, Akanksha Saxena and Neerat Kaur, conducted a thorough investigation within these villages, unearthing rays of optimism amid challenging circumstances. They observed a burgeoning movement among the younger generation to break free from the shackles of this somber tradition. These young individuals are actively striving for improved education and fundamental rights, aiming to transcend the legacy of their foremothers' occupation.

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