Kolkata, known as the "City of Joy," is a captivating place with its rich culture, historical importance, and delicious cuisine. However, amidst its vibrant facade lies a hidden reality – the presence of red-light districts.
These places are where sex workers such as escorts or call girls of Kolkata from various backgrounds live. There are lots of lights and activity on the streets, and women are there, waiting for customers.
In this detailed article, we'll look at the top 10 red-light areas in Kolkata. We'll find out where they are, understand the challenges sex workers face, and explore the social consequences of these areas. It is essential to approach this topic with empathy and sensitivity, acknowledging the complexities of the lives of those involved.
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Sonagachi is a big red-light area in the northern part of Kolkata. It's known as the largest red-light area in Asia and is always busy with activity. The area is a maze of narrow lanes and alleys, each housing a multitude of small rooms that serve as brothels. Bright neon lights and the constant presence of women waiting for clients define the atmosphere.
Even though Sonagachi is very big, it's not just a red-light district. It has also become a hub for various activities related to the sex trade. About 21,000 sex workers like call girls and Escorts of Kolkata operate here, drawing local clients and visitors from across the country.
It's a well-known hotspot in the sex trade. The concentration of sex workers in this area poses significant health risks, as sexually transmitted infections can spread easily.
Groups like Durbar Mahila Samanwaya Committee (DMSC) are crucial in helping sex workers overcome their challenges by providing essential support.
The DMSC is a group of organizations led by sex workers. They offer healthcare, legal help, job training, and advocate for the rights of sex workers. Their work has helped change people's perceptions about the profession and made life better for those in Sonagachi.
Bowbazar, situated in the central part of Kolkata, is another significant red-light area. The district is home to around 500 call girls of Kolkata working as sex workers, who operate from small rooms hidden in the narrow lanes. Bowbazar, like Sonagachi, has faced challenges associated with illegal prostitution rackets, leading to police interventions and crackdowns.
Sex workers in Bowbazar experience exploitation, violence, and a lack of basic human rights because their work is illegal. The need for support services, healthcare, and legal aid for sex workers in this area is paramount.
Kalighat, located in South Kolkata, is another significant red-light district. The area is close to the famous Kali Temple, and it attracts many visitors every day. It houses around 2,000 sex workers, many of whom are vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections.
Healthcare and support initiatives have been launched to address the health risks faced by sex workers in Kalighat. However, more comprehensive efforts are needed to improve their living conditions and protect their rights.
Kidderpore, also situated in South Kolkata, accommodates approximately 100 sex workers. It is yet another area that grapples with the darker aspects of the sex trade, including violence and exploitation. Sex workers in Kidderpore face difficulties and need support services and societal acceptance, just like in other red-light areas.
Tollygunge, located in South Kolkata, stands as another red-light area, housing around 300 sex workers. As one of the lesser-known red-light districts, it operates with relative obscurity compared to more prominent areas like Sonagachi.
Sex workers in Tollygunge face similar challenges like the risk of exploitation and the need for healthcare and legal support.
Khardah, situated in North Kolkata, is a relatively small red-light district accommodating approximately 50 sex workers. The nighttime brings bustling activity, with clients seeking services from the sex workers in the area. However, this also exposes the vulnerabilities of the sex workers, who often lack safety and security.
Lebu Bagan is a little-known red-light district in North Kolkata, housing around 100 sex workers. Operating within the shadows, the women here face similar hardships to those in more prominent areas. Their vulnerability underscores the need for support and services.
Over 150 sex workers reside in Beniapukur, situated in Central Kolkata. However, the area has a negative reputation due to its involvement in illegal prostitution. To ensure a safer and more dignified life for sex workers in Beniapukur, addressing their challenges becomes imperative.
Ranaghat, situated in North Kolkata's Nadia district, is a small town with a long history of commercial sex work. Scaled down from urban red-light areas, it still faces the same challenges as sex workers across the city.
Belilious Road, situated in Howrah, is a relatively small red-light district in Kolkata. It is home to around 50 sex workers who cater to a high-end clientele. The area has become known for serving wealthier customers who are willing to pay higher prices for the services provided.
No, prostitution is not legal in Kolkata or anywhere else in India. It is considered a criminal offense under Indian law.
Kolkata has multiple red-light districts, with prominent ones like Sonagachi, Bowbazar, Kalighat, Kidderpore, Tollygunge, Khardah, Lebu Bagan, Beniapukur, and Ranaghat.
Some structured brothels may offer healthcare services to their sex workers, but the illegal ones generally do not. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) such as the Durbar Mahila Samanwaya Committee (DMSC) actively work to offer healthcare and support to sex workers.
No, it is not safe for visitors to go to red-light areas. These places are known for various criminal activities, and visitors may put themselves at risk. Engaging in such activities is illegal and may lead to serious consequences.
Addressing the issue of prostitution requires a multi-faceted approach. The government, NGOs, and society must collaborate to provide support and services to sex workers, including healthcare, education, and vocational training. Efforts should also prioritize preventing human trafficking, providing alternative sources of livelihood, and raising awareness about the rights and dignity of sex workers.
Organizations like DMSC play a crucial role in improving the lives of sex workers. They offer healthcare services, legal support, vocational training, and advocacy for the rights of sex workers. By destigmatizing the profession and creating awareness, they aim to provide a safer and more dignified environment for sex workers.
The existence of red-light areas has significant social, economic, and health implications. Sex workers are at risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections, and there is also the risk of human trafficking. It can also contribute to the commodification of women's bodies and perpetuate gender inequality. Moreover, the presence of such areas may lead to increased drug abuse and crime, impacting the safety of residents and visitors.
Changing society's perception requires open dialogue and education. It is crucial to understand that sex workers are individuals deserving of respect and empathy. By promoting awareness about the challenges they face and supporting initiatives that aim to improve their lives, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and compassionate society.
If you plan to visit Kolkata's red-light areas, it is essential to be aware of the prices and charges for the various services offered. However, please keep in mind that prostitution is illegal in India, and engaging in such activities is against the law.
| Location | Price |
|---|---|
| Sonagachi | Rs. 500 |
| Bowbazar | Rs. 700 |
| Kalighat | Rs. 200 |
| Kidderpore | Rs. 10,000 |
| Tollygunge | Rs. 500-600 |
| Khardah | Rs. 200 |
| Beniapukur | Rs. 100 |
| Barabazar | Rs. 300 |
| Sealdah | Rs. 8,000 |
| Rajabazar | Rs. 200-300 |
Opening time from 11am till 6am