Girls from West Bengal are some of the world’s most vulnerable to human trafficking, exploitation and child marriage. But one feisty group of girls have returned to the ancient sport of Kabaddi, to build resilience. In this male dominated sport, a lone ‘raider’, takes on 7 defenders, tagging as many as possible without being tackled. The technique is described as Raid, defend, revive, repeat.
Terre des hommes Foundation (Tdh) and Praajak, with support from Comic Relief are implementing a 3 year project, ‘Kabaddi for Empowerment’, in 3 towns in West Bengal. The project uses Kabaddi, as well as targeted study circles, to promote self-efficacy and resilience in girls, assisting them to make better choices especially around their personal safety, delaying marriages and staying in school. In this way the program tackles high rates of human trafficking, sexual abuse and child marriage in the region.
I have been working with Tdh and Prajaak for 3 months now, to create 2 films challenging restrictive and damaging gender norms in the region. Girls who are making positive changes are highlighted in the films as role models or champions to promote further empowerment for girls in the community.
Hasina's father wouldn’t allow her to join the local Kabaddi team. He had arranged for her to be married and believed playing sport would bring shame on her and her family. Hasina went on a hunger strike for three days and her father finally let her join the team. One year later she has been selected for the district team and will play for her state. The marriage is on hold as she pursues her dream to be a national champion.
You can support the work of Terre des hommes in India, here.
