Together, we can give them what was stolen
– A name.
– A voice.
– A future.
Devadasi Outreach
A short video about devadasi’s history and story.
The History and Tragedy of the Devadasi System
For centuries, the Devadasi system was practiced across parts of South India – particularly in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. In its earliest form, girls were “dedicated” to temple deities before puberty,
often under the belief that they would live lives of religious service and spiritual honor.
Historically, some Devadasis were trained in classical dance, music, and temple rituals. But over time, this system lost its cultural dignity and transformed into a deeply exploitative practice. Young girls – often from
Dalit or marginalized castes – were forced into lifelong servitude, forbidden to marry, and subjected to sexual exploitation under the guise of tradition.
By the 19th and 20th centuries, the practice became a pipeline for intergenerational prostitution. While laws
like the Karnataka Devadasis (Prohibition of Dedication) Act, 1988 formally banned the system, enforcement
remains weak, and thousands of women today still bear the stigma, trauma, and poverty that the system
created.
A Present Reality That Hurts in Silence
Most former Devadasis live in extreme poverty, shunned by society, denied jobs, respect, and support. Many
suffer from chronic illnesses, HIV/AIDS, untreated trauma, and isolation. Their children are at high risk of
school dropout, trafficking, and falling into the same exploitative cycle – especially girls.
Behind every statistic is a woman who was robbed of her childhood, her dignity, and her future – all in the name of tradition.
He Cares Mission: Restoring What Was Taken
At He Cares Mission, we believe these women don’t need pity – they deserve justice, dignity, and opportunity.
That’s why we’ve launched a dedicated project focused on supporting Devadasi women and their children in
both Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.
Our Current Outreach Includes
Devadasi Rehabilitation & Dignity Project
– Monthly Provisions: Essential groceries and hygiene items
– Medical Support: Health checkups and access to medication
– Emotional Healing: Compassionate presence, prayer, and counseling
Our Vision for the Future
– Education for Children of Devadasis: Sponsorship for school fees, uniforms, and tuition
– Vocational Training & Livelihoods: Tailoring, food prep, digital literacy
– Safe Housing & Transition Centers: Secure, dignified shelters for women and children
– Legal Aid & Scheme Access: Support for pensions, ID, ration cards, and rights
Why This Matters
“They were called temple girls, but they never saw freedom. They were called servants of God, but never
treated as human. We can’t rewrite their past – but we can rebuild their future.”
– He Cares Mission Team
A Future of Dignity and Freedom
The Devadasi system may have been banned – but its legacy is still written on the lives of real women and
children. Through this project, He Cares Mission stands not only as a provider of aid – but as a partner in
justice.
How You Can Help
| Support Item | Amount |
| Monthly groceries & hygiene for 1 woman | Rs. 2,000 |
| School support for 1 child | Rs. 4,000 |
| Full rehabilitation support for 1 woman | Rs. 12,000 |
Donors receive photo updates, progress stories, and transparent reporting.