Vathsalya Charitable Trust

Breaking the Shackles of Fear: Small Steps Towards Independence

Asha and her family stay in a rented house. She has been married for 12 years, and has been living in Bangalore for 10 years because of issues with her in-laws. Asha is in an abusive marriage with her husband. He is addicted to alcohol and is physically violent, often assaulting her with knives and other forms of abuse. He is possessive, insecure, and distrustful, often doubting her without reason. He does not contribute financially to the household and has engaged in an affair with his late brother’s wife, which has worsened the emotional strain on her.

Asha, a mother of three young daughters, feels isolated in her suffering. She has contemplated suicide multiple times due to the overwhelming stress and trauma caused by the abuse. Despite her desire to leave this relationship and become financially independent, her mother advises her to stay in the marriage. However, her neighbour and friend Christina and her mother are supportive of her decision to seek freedom from this toxic environment.

She previously worked at Shell Petrol Bunk but had to leave her job after being diagnosed with a kidney stone, which further contributed to her financial dependence on her husband who offers no support. Due to the prolonged abuse and trauma, she feels suicidal and has a low self-esteem. However, recent counselling has helped her see the possibility of change, giving her hope . She plans to join Swiggy as a delivery person and start a cloth business at home. She is looking for financial support for her business.

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