As the darkness ate up the last ray of light, Rajjo went into the hall, where mattresses were laid next to each other for the fifteen girls to stay together. The atmosphere was charged with jokes and giggles. Rajjo learned a lot while fixing their bedding. Some were pursuing college education, some had enrolled in vocational subjects and a few were the independent ones who were doing well in life. The ashram initially supported them in return for a few duties they were entrusted with. Some continued their association with the ashram and some were mere followers.

She interacted with them and realized, like her, most of them were battered and orphaned. Fate much worse than Rajjo’s had descended on many of them. Damaged beauties marked by cruelties, deftly hidden under makeup. They were all given food and shelter by the ashram, just like Rajjo.

Just then Sarika Tai walked in and stood next to Rajjo. Shortly afterwards she pointed out the three most beautiful women in the group. They wore jewellery and expensive perfume with their white uniform. Their skin and hair glistened as if they had been taken care of by the best salons. ‘They have their own properties now. They chose their path. They chose to give company to some important men. I will not mince words Rajjo, you are beautiful and you can earn much more than Ranjita there. She is planning on buying her own house next year.’

Rajjo smiled at Sarika Tai. ‘They are a part of this religious commune? They do this in the name of God?’

‘Because of their choices should they be thrown out? Everyone is equal in the eyes of God and is equally entitled to be showered by his grace.’ Sarika Tai smiled back.

Rajjo laughed. ‘That’s how you sell this package?’

Sarika Tai was not laughing anymore. Neither was Rajjo. Her egregious offer hung between them.

‘Don’t judge me. Nobody is forced. You have other options too… If you want to enroll in a vocational college, do a beauty course, sewing, cooking, I will help you. Many of these girls do that’.

‘I want to be here…in the ashram.’

‘But young girls like you need to make a life, marry, have a family. Why do you want to devote your life to the service of God at this age? You are barely twenty-two, I hear.’

‘Who says I want to devote myself to the service of God? I don’t!’

Sarika Tai looked at her, confused.

‘But you will always be dependent on the organization if you stay here. You can learn some hands-on work and make a living. Decide what you want to do and let me know tomorrow. Moreover, Kuljeet wants you to relocate now.’

Rajjo stared at Sarika in the eye. ‘So it’s about Kuljeet wanting me to leave?’

‘It’s also about you making a life of your choice…’ Sarika Tai countered.

‘I am not ready to move yet. I want to serve here in the ashram. I am not ready to leave.’