Sex workers in Nagpur get acquainted with Gandhian philosophy

It was during a programme on the death anniversary of the Mahatma in January that a local NGO, Sahyog Trust, and the Indian Red Cross Society decided to impart Gandhian philosophy to the sex workers.

Though the initial response was not very encouraging, the Trust did not give up and managed to convince them, trustee of Sahyog Trust Ravindra Bhusari said.
In the beginning, the CSWs were sceptical about the use of the studies.

However, Bhusari and others managed to convince them saying the studies might help them lead a better life and in upbringing their children in a more efficient way. The organisations also held screenings of films including the Sanjay Dutt starrer 'Lage Raho Munna Bhai'. This made them interested in taking up the course in Gandhian studies.

The six-week course started in June. However, the trust realised that most of the 'students' were largely illiterate, which is why, emphasis was given on audio-visual medium.

An exam was conducted in 'Gandhian Thought' early this month and about 22 of the sex workers cleared it. Instead of awarding certificates to them, the organisers presented them a with a set of clothes at a function. A majority of sex workers, who completed the course belong to Chhattisgarh, Orissa and West Bengal, Bhusari said.
These 'Gandhians' are now engaged in spreading AIDS awareness and anti-addiction drive among the CSW.