Jogini Rehabilitation

India

Jogini Rehabilitation

The Jogini tradition has been part of southern Indian life for many centuries. It is recognised as a form of modern day slavery whereby girls as young as 4 years-old are dedicated in marriage to a local deity and must then prostitute themselves to men as an act of worship. Although it has been officially outlawed for more than 30 years and the Hindu temple has publically disassociated itself from the felony, a veneer of religion still covers the supply of concubines to wealthy men in large numbers – there are more than 100 000 joginis in Southern India alone. Powerlessness, poverty and prejudice against girls has created the backdrop against which the custom has survived for so long.

In resistance to the system, this project is committed to promoting awareness of its dangers and providing pathways out for jogini girls and women. There are three parts:

  1. Prevention: Social workers travel to 100 villages of Southern India speaking to locals,, educating women and distributing awareness-based literature.
  2. Rehabilitation: A 100-bed Safe House accommodates rescued joginis where they can recover and learn both coping and vocational skills.
  3. Restoration: Counselling, medical care and recreational activities are provided until ex-joginis are ready to reintegrate back into life beyond the Safe House.

Key Areas of Expenditure:

  • Safe House boarding facility including bedrooms, a common room and a skills training facility
  • Food, furniture, clothing, hygiene essentials, entertainment and training equipment
  • Rescue of vulnerable girls
  • Cooperation with Dalit Education Centres
  • Counselling
  • Training for Caretakers
  • Healthcare services and resources
  • Danger awareness campaigns
  • Alternative work options
Enquire Now