For the stomach by Charandas Jadhav

"""Kamathipura: A Visual Exploration"" My artwork draws inspiration from the lives of sex workers in Kamathipura, a historic red-light district in Mumbai. This project seeks to challenge the prevailing societal perceptions of these individuals, often marginalized and stigmatized.
Indian society traditionally views brothels with a lens of moral judgment. Sex workers are frequently ostracized and denied basic human dignity. However, there is a growing movement towards greater acceptance and understanding of their plight.
The Marathi play ""Sakharam Binder"" poignantly captures this societal dichotomy. One particular line resonates deeply with me:
""Sex workers"" would be the first to reach heaven,
Because she is not ashamed of anything.
She would even have her head up in front of God.
And she'll say-""Everything I did. I did to survive;
Never teased someone after affecting them.
What I gave was only ""satisfaction'.
Fulfilled the sexual desires of men'.
Young, Old, Wealthy, Broke, Diseased, Healthy...
Ignored these things.
Saw them as equals.
If anyone has sinned. it is them.
I'm not a sinner.
Because she is not ashamed of anything.
She would even have her head up in front of God.""
This powerful statement highlights the resilience and honesty of sex workers. They acknowledge their profession as a means of survival, while also emphasizing the humanity and dignity they deserve."