Kusum’s* story of recovery is one of hope. At the age of 16, she was sold to a brothel in Bihar where she was forced into commercial sexual exploitation, at times pulled out of bed in the wee hours of the morning to engage with inebriated men. During her rescue back in November 2018, Kusum displayed extreme courage and determination when she spoke up in front of police officials, JVI staff and her captors to inform the rescue team of other young girls being held captive in neighboring facilities. The team then proceeded to raid four adjoining brothels and rescued seven other girls.
Kusum eventually was reunited with her family and, through JVI’s Aftercare program, received skills training and a sewing machine which she used to support herself. During this time of healing, she also got a chance to restore old relationships, like one with her childhood friend, Rajiv*. This rekindled friendship grew into a more serious relationship and the two decided to get married. Soon their families met and gave their blessing.
On the day of the wedding, JVI celebrated the union with a gift for the new couple. The marriage took place in a local Hindu temple in the presence of family, friends, and JVI staff members. In the wake of her rescue, Kusum embraced all the opportunities for growth provided to her and is fully reintegrated into society. At age 18, Kusum exercised the freedom to choose her husband and now possesses the skills needed to help provide for her family.
Today, living with her husband in a small village in Bihar, Kusum proudly displays her wedding gift in the corner of her kitchen – a symbol of hope and a precious reminder of caring people like you in the world who are supporting and praying for her as she embarks on this new chapter in her life.
Brass utensil set given to the newlyweds.
*Names have been changed to protect the survivor’s identity
