They call her “The Princess Of Slums” which is literally correct but I will refrain from calling her so. It is true that this 13-year-old belongs to an underprivileged family in Mumbai but showcasing her as a slum dweller and selling her poverty is kind of disrespectful and also affects the image of India.
I am referring to Maleesha Kharwa, a young girl who lives on the shores of Mumbai with her father, uncle, and younger brother.
Maleesha is amongst millions dwelling in the city who struggle for their existence, every single day. A typical day in Maleesha’s life involves carrying water and food to her dwelling, helping her dad, and studying – both online and offline. She tops her class and English is her favorite subject.
What makes her different from the lot are her aspirations. Maleesha dreams of becoming a model and a dancer and by God’s grace, she has been featured on the cover of Peacock Magazine.
View this post on Instagram
Maleesha’s luck shined when she was spotted by Step Up 2 actor Robert Hoffman.
Robert came to India to shoot a music video that starred Maleesha’s cousin sister. But then he got stranded here as the borders were closed during the pandemic. That’s exactly what got him to meet Maleesha who shared her dreams with Hollywood Star. Soon after, Robert set out to materialize her ambitions just before leaving and made an entire Instagram page on her which now has thousands of followers. He aided her with a manager named Aleesha who has been looking out for her all the while.
View this post on Instagram
Robert and Aleesha had shot several pictures and videos for the Instagram page that has garnered a lot of appreciation over the months. Hoffman even started a donation drive for the little girl hoping for her best. The actor states that the funds that will come Maleesha’s way will be allocated in four broad categories:
- Immediate basic necessities
- Savings for proper housing
- A locked bank account for Maleesha’s future education
- Career / social media tools and promotion.
Click here to help Maleesha
Maleesha admires Disha Patani and Tiger Shroff and derives her inspiration from her manager – Aleesha. She wants to make it big in her career and feed her family.