Namaste'!

My name is Indrani.  I am 10 years old.  I live in a poor section of northern Calcutta.  I live on the streets.  I have no home or family.  I take care of myself.

To survive, I beg for food, steal, and pray that I don't get caught.  I often sleep with dogs or cats to keep me warm at night.

The reason I live like this is because I am a Dalit.  Dalits are the lowest of the low of society.  In Hindu custum, anybody who is not worth anything is considered a Dalit or "untouchable"; we are often given the worst jobs, are not offered any chance of schooling or education, and are made to be exploited, or used, by others, live as beggars, and cannot eat or drink whenever higher castes are present.  We have to fend for ourselves.

My life is not easy.  I wish it were, but it isn't.  I have learned to accept my fate, but sometimes, I wish things were different for me.

I don't know what the future holds for me, but I do know one thing: I could very end up as a prostitute or a beggar, to be used by society to do their bidding.  Just say some prayers to your god on my behalf and ask that something good happen to me.  I don't like this life; I want to have a better future!!  Thanks!

~Indrani.  

~To be continued!~