NINETEEN
Manira came to Nirmala Niketan after Tutul. As they spent a few days together, they became close.
They tried to leave the home together but had to return. The level of torture they had to face was increased.
Leaving Nirmala Niketan was not an easy task. Those who had ever tried to escape weren't successful. The sword of oppression descended on the fleeing girls.
The adults were treated with hot iron burns all over their bodies. The young ones were kept locked with rats and lizards in a dark room without food and water.
The girls would not ever think of escaping again. They were forced to surrender to the world of filth... and the desire for liberation, the wish of crossing the threshold was suppressed with unimaginable cruelty.
Manira's customer, an aristocratic woman, arrived at Nirmala Niketan.
She had bought her for a huge sum of money. As the customer was arranged by Nivedita, she was placed in the good book of Rampiyari.
Extra energetic Nivedita wanted to free Tutul as she had developed a soft corner for the girl. She drove Tutul out through the back door and handed her over to a known taxi driver, Chunilal and said "Chuni Bhai, please return this poor girl to her mother anyhow. I will try to compensate as much as I can."
She had given him a chit with Tutul's address.
Tutul was brought back to Nirmala Niketan by Rampiyari… driver Chunilal informed her about Tutul.
The ten year old girl was handed over to Chunilal by Rampiyari and she said "This girl is yours tonight. Go and enjoy… this is the reward for your good deed."
The minor was tortured over the whole night though Chunilal was also a father… minimum hesitation was not there.
The mutilated body of Nivedita was found in the forest near Delhi- Agra Highway. She was gang raped.
The lacerated Tutul was rushed to Mumbai.
Nishchint Madam took Manira to Oberoi Shopping Mall.
They entered Shopper's Stop and Nishchint told Manira "Go and get dresses and shoes of your choice. I am waiting here."
Manira forgot to blink her eyes, she had seen such shopping malls only from outside… she knew not what to buy!
Manira looked at Nishchint ma'am helplessly and said "I don't want anything."
Ma'am smiled and bought clothes, shoes, books and toys for her.
Manira was awestruck, she had never seen a customer spending so lavishly for the girl who would work for her. It would have been much better if Tutul was there with her too.
Manira was introduced to Madam's daughter, Sonu after they reached Nishchint's big bungalow. As she was very young, Manira thought she was bought and brought there to look after the girl. She was quite happy.
She entered Madam's bedroom hesitantly and asked "What do I have to do Madam?" She stood by Madam's feet.
"Did you attend school, can you read? You have to study well."
Manira was astounded… she had never heard of such customers.
"Sonya, my daughter is your sister now. You will look after and play with her. I will teach you first and then send you to school. You will educate yourself and help Sonya too. It's your rebirth Mani… from today, you will be known as Manisha.
