Less than two decades ago, Bharathy Tahiliani, a young social worker, was working with women in a Thane brothel on health and HIV issues. When a woman sought her help to escape, Tahiliani stepped in. That life-changing moment inspired her to start Kshamata, supporting women survivors of exploitation and violence.
Nikunj Jhaveri, founder and chairman, Systems Plus Group of Companies |
At the heart of Kshamata’s work is a clear mission: to break the cycle of exploitation and enable adolescent girls and women from difficult backgrounds—including survivors of trafficking and gender-based violence—to lead lives of dignity, confidence, self-reliance, and freedom. “The organisation focuses on long-term, transformative support, recognising that true empowerment takes time. Through sustained programmes that equip and empower, Kshamata works closely with women to rebuild their lives on their own terms,” says Tahiliani, founder and managing trustee of Kshamata.
The NGO aims to break the cycle of exploitation and enable adolescent girls and women |
The first step in Kshamata’s approach to reintegration is what the organisation calls personal restoration—a process rooted in trauma-informed care. “Exploitation affects the mind as much as the body,” says the Thane resident, emphasising the urgent need for emotional and psychological healing. The NGO offers individual counselling, life skills sessions, and expressive therapies such as art-based and dance movement therapy to help women process trauma and rebuild emotional resilience. This inner foundation, she explains, is essential before any other programme—be it skill-building or employment—can have real impact.
Economic empowerment is the next step, which forms the core of its reintegration strategy. “It becomes the anchor around which a new life is built,” she said. But economic independence is not as simple as securing a job. Many women need to be prepared for the world of work, starting with basic literacy, financial and digital skills, and vocational training. “Kshamata supports women in exploring their own aspirations—whether that means formal employment, micro-enterprises, or home-based self-employment—and helps them choose a path that suits their goals,” she added.
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The final pillar is social reintegration—helping women reclaim their place in society with confidence and dignity. “Many survivors of violence feel stigmatised, isolated, and fearful of judgment,” shared Tahiliani. Without a sense of belonging, they risk falling back into cycles of vulnerability and re-exploitation. The NGO addresses this by building independent living skills: how to navigate public spaces, communicate with landlords, travel alone, interact with neighbours, and handle everyday tasks like banking and bargaining. Women are also encouraged to form their own support networks, creating the social safety net they need to thrive in mainstream society.
Nikunj Jhaveri, founder and chairman, Systems Plus Group of Companies, shares, “Kshamata’s work has been truly transformative, bringing significant change not only in the lives of survivors of gender-based violence but also in those of women at risk. Over the years, I have witnessed several rescued women go through remarkable journeys—from healing and self-acceptance to rebuilding their lives and ultimately achieving independence. Their livelihoods have empowered not just themselves, but also those around them, creating a ripple effect across their communities."
