REPORT / PRAYER REQUESTS FROM JOHN FORBES

PRAISE

*. For Recovered Health

* For the Support Group Launched in India

* For Ministry Opportunities in Morocco

* For Clarity about upcoming transitions for India

PRAYER

* For Identity & Sexuality In Christ Workshop this Saturday, Casablanca

* India, Business Visa partnerships, Open doors for Consulting - Oct-Dec. Trip

* Prayer for ongoing Monthly Identity In Christ Support Groups

* For the Oswald Project - Clarity about next steps

* For Coaching/Teaching opportunities

* For Christian Conference in Atlanta, Georgia - for God to speak.

* For time in USA June/July that it would be fruitful and impactful.

DONATION/SUPPORT

If you would like to help out financially with India Ministry, Atlanta Christian Conference, 

The Oswald Project or My ongoing expenses on the road: You can make a tax-deductible donation 

at www.vcabq.com/giving scroll to bottom to JOHN FORBES MIssions.

 - OR - You can send a check to: John Forbes, P.O. Box 104, Albuquerque, NM 87103

Updates and links coming soon

We are currently committed to giving 2% to the Association of Vineyard Churches;

Vineyard Community for Missions and Church Planting in USA.

https://vineyardusa.org/explore/church-planting-multi-sites-missional-communities/

We are also committed to local benevolence for church members based on a submission by others in the church as well as submissions from the leaders in the church.

Campus Crusade to support Peter and Mary Shegay in Asia.

https://www.cru.org/

New Mexico Dream Center to support local trafficking ministry led by Shelly Repp.

https://www.nmdreamcenter.org/

Project Proposal

KRUPASHRAYA TRUST

COMPASSION IN ACTION

BUILDING PROJECT

OF

HOME FOR DEVADASIS

Year - 2024

IN HUVINAHADAGALLI, KARNATAKA, S-INDIA

PRIMARY CONTACT

SAMSON ARTHUR PAUL

Founder/President

KRUPASHRAYA TRUST

ADDRESS FOR CORRESPONDENCE:

#9, 4th Floor, 1st Cross, 1st Main,

Byanna Layout, Yeswanthpur,

Bangalore – 560022.

Karnataka State, S-INDIA

Mobile: +91-98456 31112

Email: krupashrayatrust@gmail.com

URL: www.krupashraya.com

REGISTRATION AND LICENSE:

 Registration No: 422/2005-06(IV)

 PAN Number: AABTK1141K

 Incorporation No. of 12AA:

DIT(E)BLR/12AA/K-865/AABTK1141K/ITO(E)-1/VOL2011-2012

 Incorporation No. of 80G:

DIT(E)BLR/80G/J-51/AABTK1141K/ITO(E)-1/2014-15

BANK INFORMATION

 Account No: 00000031061647048

 IFS Code: SBIN0040605

 MIRC Code: 560002456

BRIEF HISTORY OF KRUPASHRAYA

In the depths of despair and anguish, amidst the cries of innocent souls, a beacon of

compassion emerged - the

Krupashraya Trust. Founded by

the indefatigable Samson Arthur

Paul and his team, this

organization was born from the

searing pain of witnessing acute misery and unfathomable hunger, especially among vulnerable young girls trapped in the vicious cycle of prostitution and unwed mothers agonizing over the unthinkable choice of parting with their newborns. The genesis of the Trust traces back to a haunting childhood memory etched into Mr. Paul's soul like a scar - a poignant moment when, as a 10-year-old boy, he stumbled upon a tiny infant girl, wrapped in nothing but a newspaper, discarded callously in a garbage bin. The heart-wrenching sight of that innocent life, abandoned and left to perish, haunted his dreams, her helpless cries drowned out by the merciless barks of street dogs. This harrowing incident left an indelible mark on Mr. Paul's conscience, igniting a fire within him to combat the rampant cruelty and neglect that ravaged the lives of countless innocents. Moreover, the grim reality captured in social media feeds, portraying the grim fate of innumerable infant girls callously discarded in gutters, trash bins, and forgotten corners of society, further fueled Mr. Paul's resolve to act. Faced with the overwhelming magnitude of poverty, illiteracy, unemployment, and drought ravaging the state of Karnataka, he could no longer remain a passive bystander to the suffering around him. Driven by a fervent desire to alleviate the profound suffering endured by the most vulnerable members of society, Mr. Paul envisioned the Krupashraya Trust in 2005. It was born from a place of profound empathy, a commitment to extend a lifeline of hope to those drowning in the sea of despair. Through the Trust's tireless efforts, Mr. Paul and his team aspire to rewrite the narrative of despair, infusing it with threads of compassion, resilience, and unwavering hope. The Krupashraya Trust stands as a testament to the power of compassion to heal wounds, restore dignity, and ignite the flame of hope in even the darkest of times. With each act of kindness and each outstretched hand, the Trust endeavors to create a world where every life is cherished, every soul finds solace, and every cry for help is met with unwavering compassion. For the past decade, the Krupashraya Trust has been a beacon of hope and compassion, tirelessly serving among temple prostitutes and widows with unwavering dedication. Over the course of ten years, we have extended our hands to hundreds of Devadasis and orphaned widows, offering not just material assistance, but a lifeline of love and support in their darkest hours. Through stipends, income generation programs, and awareness initiatives, we have empowered these resilient souls to reclaim their dignity and independence. From providing utensils and sarees to offering crucial necessities, we have sought to alleviate their immediate hardships with warmth and empathy.

Now, as we embark on our next chapter, we have set our sights on a new endeavor - a home for Devadasis. It is our fervent hope that this sanctuary of solace will serve as a beacon of light in their lives, offering them not just shelter, but a sense of purpose and hope for the

future.

INTRODUCTION & BACKGROUND OF DEVADASI

SYSTEM

The Devadasi system simply means temple prostitution, a traditional practice where girls, typically from lower-caste communities, are dedicated to serving deities in temples as Devadasis, or "servants of god." It is girls dedicated to temples at a young age, as early as prepubescent or early teenage years. In Karnataka, the Devadasi, is a term soaked in the blood of exploitation and degradation, epitomizes the brutality inflicted upon vulnerable women in the name of tradition. Forced into servitude from a young age, these girls are nothing more than commodities in a perverse marketplace of flesh for sex. Their bodies, once intended for worship, are now bought and sold for the pleasure of others, their identities erased by the relentless demands of a society steeped in misogyny and indifference. Devadasi dedication ceremonies were typically performed before the onset of puberty, often around the ages of 8 to 12 years old. These ceremonies involved rituals where the girls were symbolically married to the deity they were to serve. Their existence is a living nightmare, a cruel fusion of devotion and despair where the sacred and the profane intertwine in a grotesque dance of exploitation and suffering. With each ritual, each offering, they are violated and defiled, their spirits crushed

beneath the weight of stigma and shame. But amidst the darkness, there is no light - only the cold, harsh reality of survival in a world that sees them as nothing more than objects of desire. They are not warriors, but victims, their spirits broken and their voices silenced by the deafening roar of oppression. To speak of the Devadasi is to speak of a tragedy of epic proportions, a tale of unspeakable cruelty and injustice. It is a story that bears witness to the depths of human depravity, a reminder of the horrors that lurk beneath the surface of society's facade of civility. For the Devadasi is not a survivor, but a casualty - a casualty of a world that values profit over humanity, pleasure over compassion. And it is our duty, as fellow human beings, to confront this brutality head-on, to acknowledge the pain and suffering inflicted upon these women, and to demand justice for their stolen dignity and shattered lives.

CURRENT SITUATION

In present-day Karnataka, while the Devadasi system has officially been abolished, its remnants still persist in certain rural areas and tribal communities. Devadasis and their descendants continue to face social discrimination, economic deprivation, and exploitation. Despite legislative efforts to eradicate the system and provide support to Devadasis, implementation challenges and deep-rooted social attitudes have hindered progress in fully addressing their plight. Efforts to combat the system involve a multi-faceted approach, including legal reforms, awareness campaigns, economic empowerment initiatives, and social support programs aimed at providing Devadasis with alternative livelihoods and

opportunities for rehabilitation and integration into mainstream society. While strides have been made in challenging the Devadasi system and advocating for the rights of women affected by it, much work remains to be done to eradicate the underlying socio-economic inequalities and patriarchal attitudes that perpetuate their marginalization. Continued efforts are needed to ensure that Devadasis in Karnataka are granted the dignity, respect, and opportunities they deserve as equal members of society. While it's important to acknowledge the complexities and challenges faced by Devadasis, it is crucial to emphasize that older woman or aged devadasis sustain or perpetuate the Devadasi system. With advancing age, their ability to engage in physically demanding work diminishes, leaving them economically vulnerable and dependent on informal sources of livelihood. Some of the factors that contribute to the continuation of the system by older Devadasis:

1. Cultural Conditioning: Older Devadasis are deeply ingrained with cultural

beliefs and practices surrounding the Devadasi system from a young age. They

continue to play ceremonial roles in religious and cultural events within their

communities, drawing on their expertise in dance, music, and ritualistic

practices. They may participate in temple festivals, weddings, identifying the

girls as inspired by their gods to be dedicated or wedded to the deity and other

auspicious occasions, preserving traditional art forms and cultural heritage.

These beliefs may lead them to view their role as sacred and necessary,

despite the exploitation and hardships they have faced.

2. Informal Caregivers: In some cases, older Devadasis take on caregiving roles

within their families or communities, providing support and assistance to

younger generations or other vulnerable individuals. They may serve as

mentors, advisors, or surrogate caregivers, offering guidance and wisdom

based on their life experiences.

3. Economic Dependency: Older Devadasis may have become economically

dependent on the system, relying on it as their primary source of income and

livelihood. Without viable alternative options, they may feel compelled to

continue their involvement in order to survive.

4. Social Pressures: Older Devadasis face social pressures from within their

communities to uphold the tradition and maintain their status as Devadasis.

These pressures come from family members, community leaders, or religious

authorities who perpetuate the belief in the sanctity of the Devadasi role.

5. Limited Education and Opportunities: Many older Devadasis lack formal

education and marketable skills, making it difficult for them to transition to

alternative livelihoods or economic activities. Without access to education and

opportunities for economic empowerment, they may see little choice but to

continue their involvement in the Devadasi system.

6. Historical Legitimization: The Devadasi system has a long history and has been

legitimized by religious and cultural institutions for centuries. Older Devadasis

adhere to these beliefs and traditions, viewing their role as an integral part of

their identity and cultural heritage.

7. Fear of Retaliation or Stigmatization: Older Devadasis may fear retaliation or

further stigmatization if they attempt to leave the system or speak out against

it. The fear of losing social support or facing ostracism from their communities

may deter them from seeking alternatives.

While these factors may contribute to the continuation of the Devadasi system

among older individuals, it's important to recognize that the ultimate responsibility

lies with society as a whole to address the root causes of exploitation and ensure the

rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of age or background.

Here are some of the key hardships older and aged devadasis

typically experience:

1. Exploitation & Economic Vulnerability: Many older Devadasis live in poverty

and struggle to make ends meet. They lack formal education and marketable

skills, making it difficult for them to find employment or generate sustainable

income. This economic vulnerability leaves them dependent on charity or

precarious forms of livelihood, such as begging or sex work. They are subjected

to exploitation and abuse, both within their communities and in broader

society, perpetuating their marginalization and vulnerability.

2. Social Stigma and Discrimination: Older Devadasis often face social stigma and

discrimination due to their association with the Devadasi system. They are

ostracized by their communities and often viewed with disdain and suspicion,

leading to social isolation and exclusion.

3. Health Issues: Older Devadasis frequently suffer from poor health due to a lack

of access to healthcare services and inadequate nutrition. They may also have

specific health issues related to their past experiences, such as sexually

transmitted infections or reproductive health problems.

4. Psychological Trauma: The trauma of past exploitation and abuse can have

long-lasting psychological effects on older Devadasis. Many struggles with

feelings of shame, guilt, and low self-esteem, as well as symptoms of

depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. They may grapple with

feelings of shame, guilt, and self-blame, as well as diminished self-worth and

self-esteem.

5. Legal Challenges: Older Devadasis may face legal challenges related to land

ownership, inheritance rights, and access to social welfare benefits.

Discriminatory laws and administrative barriers can further exacerbate their

vulnerability and hinder their ability to assert their rights.

6. Unsafe Living Conditions: Many Devadasis and widows live in unsafe and

unsanitary conditions, lacking adequate shelter, food, and basic amenities,

exacerbating their suffering.

PROPOSAL OVERVIEW:

In the quiet corners of Karnataka, there exists a community of resilient souls whose lives have been marked by hardship, yet whose spirits remain unbroken. These are the aged and older Devadasis, women who have endured a lifetime of trials within the confines of a tradition that has left scars deeper than the eye can see. It is for these women, our sisters, our mothers, our grandmothers, that we extend this heartfelt plea for compassion and action. The Unseen Suffering: Behind the veil of tradition lies a reality that often goes unnoticed – the silent suffering of aged and older Devadasis. These women, once revered as embodiments of divine grace, now find themselves cast aside by a society that has long forgotten their sacred contributions. Left to navigate the twilight years of their lives alone, they bear the weight of unspoken burdens, the echoes of past exploitation and neglect haunting their every step.

A Call to Compassion:

In the face of such profound adversity, we are compelled to act– to extend a hand of compassion and offer solace to those who have known only

hardship. It is time to recognize the inherent dignity and worth of every aged and older Devadasi, to honor their resilience and courage, and to provide them with the care and support they so desperately need and deserve.

A Home of Hope:

We propose the establishment of a dedicated residential facility – a Home of Hope – designed to provide sanctuary and support to aged and older Devadasis. This refuge will serve as a haven of safety and dignity, offering a nurturing environment where these women can find healing,

companionship, and a sense of belonging in their twilight years.

Empowerment Through Compassion:

At the heart of our vision lies a commitment to empowerment through compassion – to providing aged and older Devadasis with the resources, opportunities, and support they need to reclaim their dignity and rebuild their lives. Through holistic care, counseling, medical assistance, and skills development programs, we seek to empower these women to live their remaining years with purpose and dignity.

WHAT DOES THE HOME PROVIDE?

The proposed home for Devadasis aims to address these challenges by providing a safe, supportive, and dignified living environment. The facility will offer comprehensive services tailored to the unique needs of its residents, including:

Safe and Nurturing Environment:

A welcoming and secure residential facility designed to provide aged and older Devadasis with a sense of safety and belonging. Comfortable accommodations and communal spaces for relaxation, recreation, and social interaction.

Medical Care and Wellness Services:

On-site visits of medical doctors and healthcare professionals to address the unique health needs of aged and older Devadasis. Regular health screenings, preventive care, and access to medications to promote overall well-being.

Counseling and Mental Health Support:

Confidential counseling services provided by trained professionals to address the emotional and psychological trauma experienced by aged and older Devadasis. Support groups and therapy sessions to foster healing, resilience, and self empowerment.

Nutritional Support and Dietary Services:

Nutritious meals and dietary support tailored to meet the dietary needs and preferences of aged and older Devadasis. Education and guidance on healthy eating habits and nutrition to promote physical health and vitality.

Skills Development and Empowerment Programs:

Vocational training workshops and skill-building programs to enhance the employability and self-sufficiency of aged and older Devadasis.

Entrepreneurship and income-generating initiatives to empower them to create sustainable livelihoods and financial independence.

Recreational and Cultural Activities:

Recreational outings, cultural events, and arts and crafts activities to promote socialization, creativity, and cultural enrichment. Celebrations of traditional festivals and cultural practices to honor the heritage and identity of aged and older Devadasis.

Legal Assistance and Advocacy:

Legal aid services provided to address legal issues and challenges faced by aged and older Devadasis, including land ownership, inheritance rights, and access to social welfare benefits. Advocacy efforts to raise awareness, challenge discriminatory practices, and advocate for the rights and dignity of aged and older Devadasis.

Social Transformation:

The home will challenge prevailing social norms and stereotypes, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society that values the rights

and dignity of all women.

RESCUING DEVADASIS

Rescue efforts for Devadasis can target a wide range of age groups, as girls and women of varying ages may be subjected to exploitation within the Devadasi system. This mainly happens when we receive information from the locals as we greatly involve in conducting awareness programs and charitable camps and gospel evangelical meetings. It involves several factors, including legal considerations, the specific circumstances of

exploitation, and the availability of resources for intervention.

1. Prepubertal Girls:

Whenever we receive information about prepubertal girls at risk of being dedicated as

Devadasis, we make efforts to prevent the dedication of young girls to temples and

intervene before they are subjected to exploitation. We first inform police, local tahsildar

and also press media... One of staff employed by our organization himself is a local press

editor. We need to be protective of ourself before launching rescue operation.

2. Adolescent and Young Adult Women:

Adolescent and young adult women are those who are already trapped in the Devadasi

system and are at risk of being trafficked or exploited. We only have to identify and get

information when we do awareness programmes and about women who are living in

exploitative conditions, such as brothels or temples, and providing them with support and

services to escape exploitation.

3. Older Women:

Older women face unique challenges, including physical and psychological trauma, as well

as social stigma, that require specialized support and assistance by providing them safe

place, medical necessities and emotion support. It's very easy to identify these women

again thru our awareness programs.

Some of the ways we do rescue is:

1. Outreach gospel evangelistic Camps & Awareness programmes:

We conduct outreach activities to identify Devadasis at risk or currently experiencing

exploitation. This involves building trust with affected communities, conducting

awareness campaigns, and providing information about available support services.

2. Investigation & Intervention:

We conduct covert investigations into cases of trafficking, sexual exploitation, and

other crimes associated with the Devadasi system. When evidence of exploitation is

found, rescue operations may be carried out to remove individuals from harmful

situations and provide them with immediate assistance and protection. These are

conducted by our staffs who are influential locally with press media connections.

METHOD OF ASSISTANCE

What we have

We have the land.

We have fully costed architects’ drawings.

We have the resources to run the home for Devadasis.

We have money – enough to clear the land, and for the registration it.

We have money – enough to get the planning permission from the Government.

What we Need

We need further financial resources. The approximate costing for the building is as

follows:

Stage 1

Cost Involved for the Project 2022

Description Size Amount Total in INR IN $ Remarks

1 Land purchase 1/2 acre 3,200,000 3,200,000 40,000 Paid by Krupashraya Trust

2 Registration 8% 256,000 3,200 Funds available

3 Planning Permission 5% 472,500 5,906 Funds available

4 Architecture Plan 3% 283,500 3,544 Funds available

5 Promise to fund 680,000 8,500 Funds available

6 Building Cost Stage1

4200

sft. 2,250 9,450,000 118,125 Not paid

14,342,000 179,275

Available Fund 1,692,000 21,150

Required Fund 9,450,000 118,125

Facility Stage Area in Sft

Dormitory 1

Stage 1

1400

Dormitory 2 1400

Kitchen 380

Dining Area 340

Toilet Area 260

Office -

Administration 420

Total Sft 4,200

Join Us in Making a Difference: We cannot change the past, but together, we can

shape a brighter future for aged and older Devadasis. We invite you to join us in this

Page 16 of 16

noble endeavor – to stand in solidarity with those who have borne the weight of

tradition and to offer them the hope and healing they so richly deserve.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Has your organization worked with any other organizations in the past, in partnership

or partial support?

Yes, we have worked with few charities’ organizations listed below:

 World Vision

 ELIM Church, UK

 Lighthouse International, UK

 Compassion International

 Samaritan Purse (Operation Christmas Child)

 Narayana Netralaya

OTHER PAST PROJECTS

(Pictures available on request)

1. Covid Relief - Distributed 35000 food packets.

2. Covid Relief – Free Vaccination camps.

3. Orphanage Project.

4. 800+ cataract Surgeries for the needy.

5. 3 Feeding Centres for the destitute Children.

6. Adult Literacy program.

7. Tuition Centres for school going students.

8. Caring for the widows

9. Income generating projects.

10. Relief work during heavy floods.

11. Conducting Eye Camps & providing Free Spectacles for the underprivileged.

12. Conducting Medical camps in the remote villages & providing medicines.

13. AIDS awareness and health camps.

14. Roof for the roofless.

15. Distribution of Utensils, Rice & Dal

16. Distribution of blankets, umbrella, footwear, coconut saplings.

END RESULT

The establishment of a dedicated home for Devadasis in Karnataka is an urgent

imperative to address the profound injustices and hardships faced by these

marginalized women. By providing a safe, supportive, and empowering environment,

we can offer them a lifeline out of despair and towards a brighter, more hopeful

future. We call upon all stakeholders to support this vital initiative and join us in

building a more just and compassionate society for all.