Obviously, if you’re coming to Agra, you’re likely coming to see the Taj Mahal. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in India and with good reason. But, if you only do one other thing in Agra, please make it this: Sheroes Hangout. It’s not only a great vegetarian cafe but a nonprofit for an important cause as well. Continue reading for more info and why it’s so important!
About Sheroes Hangout
In case you’re not already aware, acid attacks are very common in India. Whether it’s a random acid attack or the victim’s own family member, it happens all too often. Sheroes Hangout is a vegetarian cafe and safe haven for acid attack survivors in Agra. The cafe is run by the survivors and serves as a place where they can feel empowered as well as be an inspiration to others.
Don’t forget to check out my other post: The Taj Mahal, A Sunrise Visit to One of the Seven Wonders of the World.
When you arrive at the cafe you’ll be greeted with a friendly smile and asked if you would like to watch a short video. This video tells the stories of many of the acid attack survivors. I’ll be honest, it’s not easy to watch. The women’s stories are absolutely heartbreaking and shocking to see. I’m so glad there are places out there like Sheroes Hangout to help these women!
Hundreds of acid attacks are reported each year in India and the numbers only seem to be increasing. There were over 300 cases reported just in 2019. Sadly, the number of actual cases vs. reported cases is believed to be much higher. Many of the victims don’t live long enough after the attack to get help, let alone share their story.
There are photos of many of the acid attack survivors on display at the cafe along with their stories, the aftermath, and their goals for the future. Rupa (shown above, left) was attacked by her own step-mother when she was only 15 years old. She now works at the cafe and plans to become a doctor. Dolly (shown above, right) was attacked when she was only 12 and has had permanent health issues ever since. For the longest time she refused to even leave her home because of her situation. Now, she also plans to one day become a doctor.
Any Harry Potter fans out there? If so, you may recognize the man in the photo above. Jason Issacs, (Lucius Malfoy in the Harry Potter films) visited Sheroes Hangout a few years ago in 2016!
The Food at Sheroes Hangout
The menu at the cafe is completely vegetarian and everything that we tried was delicious. There are no prices on any of the menu items, you simply donate a “pay as you wish” contribution. 100% of the donations go towards the rehabilitation of acid attack survivors. I completely forgot to take any photos of the food but I can definitely recommend the ‘Dum Aaloo Kashmiri’.
How You Can Help
Visit the Sheroes Hangout Cafe
At the cafe there are t-shirts and books that you can purchase along with your meal. Or, you can simply make a donation of any amount that you choose. No amount of money is too small or too large. Don’t forget to leave a nice note for the ladies before you leave!
Unfortunately, many acid attack survivors are denied job opportunities after the attack because of their looks which is sad, cruel, and a big blow to their self-esteem. Sheroes Hangout serves not only as a job and way of income for the survivors but a program for social integration as well. If you want to stop by just to hang out, and not to eat, that’s more than fine as well. Sheroes Hangout often puts on events for the women to socialize while also spreading awareness.
Donate Online
I strongly encourage you to check out the Sheroes Hangout website for more info on how you can make a donation or help in other ways. Just head to the website and click the tab that says “donate” if you would like to make a contribution.
Share This Post to Spread Awareness
I know that I, personally, was not at all aware of what a problem acid attacks were in India until I visited Sheroes Hangout. Watching the video when I arrived was a real eye-opener. Please share this post to help spread awareness. The more people are aware, the more they can help! Another way to spread awareness is by using the hashtag #StopAcidAttacks.
Are you planning a trip to India soon? Share in a comment below!
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Don’t forget to check out these other India posts:
- The Taj Mahal: A Sunrise Visit
- Agra, India Travel Guide
- Places to Visit in New Delhi, India
- India Travel Tips
- Travel Guide and Itinerary for the Golden Triangle
- Places to Visit in Jaipur, India
I’m not planning on visiting India this year, but I’m so happy you shared this. I will definitely visit this cafe if I visit India, it’s so important to share their story and raise awareness.
Author
Thank you! I totally agree. You can always check out their website to help out as well 😁♥️