Educate Destitute Girls in Kolkata, India

Kahkasha’s Journey of Hope

Kahkasha is a 15-year-old girl living in the Tiljala slum of Kolkata with her parents, two brothers, and grandmother in a very small rented house. The family pays a monthly rent of just Rs. 120 (USD 1.45) along with electricity charges of about Rs. 300 (USD 3.60) per month. The limited space and constant financial pressure make daily life extremely challenging for the family.

Her father,Wajid, works as a daily wage labourer, earning around Rs. 500–700 per week (USD 6–8.50). His income is irregular, especially during the monsoon season when work often stops completely due to weather conditions. Her mother, Musarrat, works as a domestic helper and earns about Rs. 2,000 per month (USD 24). Despite long working hours, she single-handedly manages the household and supports her children with immense dedication and strength.

Kahkasha’s elder brother, Aryan (18), is currently not studying or working, while her younger brother, Riswan (13), studies in Class V at a local government school. Their grandmother also lives with them and depends entirely on the family for care and support.

In the midst of these hardships, Kahkasha stands out as a bright, sincere, and hardworking student. She is currently studying in Class IX at Shaukat Memorial School and will be promoted to Class X next year. She also attends regular tuition classes to strengthen her learning, for which the family somehow manages to pay Rs. 500 per month (USD 6).

What makes Kahkasha’s story truly touching is her mother’s quiet involvement in her education. Though not educated herself, her mother sits beside Kahkasha when she studies—offering encouragement, moral support, and hope. Before and after school, Kahkasha helps her mother with household chores, balancing responsibilities far beyond her age without ever losing focus on her studies.

Kahkasha dreams of completing her education and building a better life for her family—one where they no longer struggle for basic needs. Her parents firmly believe in her potential and give her their full support, hoping she will one day change the family’s circumstances.

With proper guidance and continued support from Tiljala SHED, Kahkasha has the strength, determination, and ability to succeed. A small helping hand today can ensure that this young girl’s dreams do not fade under the weight of poverty—but instead grow into a future of dignity, stability, and hope for her entire family.

 Your support can help Kahkasha continue her education and turn her quiet determination into lasting change.