Tarang Chawla Instagram – BEHIND EVERY STATISTIC IS A STORY
This is my sister Nikita Chawla, exactly ten years ago today on the very last birthday she ever celebrated. Let me tell you the story behind this photo.
Our mum started an Indian restaurant at the age of 50, fulfilling her own lifelong dream. Two years into running the restaurant, mum didn’t get days off so Niki went there on her own birthday. Dad and I went to a local cafe and got Niki cupcakes.
Niki was going through so much that year. Little did we know her pain was the the result of the coercive control and abuse she was experiencing in her relationship.
But that gesture of cupcakes, coffee and quality time made Niki’s day and she smiled. It meant everything to see her happy for a moment.
Sadly, Niki never celebrated another birthday – tragically murdered by her partner six months later when she tried to escape.
I wish Niki’s story was an anomaly but this is all too common. This year alone, more than 40 Australian women have had their lives stolen from them by violent men.
I co-founded Not One More Niki after Niki’s death and on the 10th anniversary of Niki’s last ever birthday, I’m asking us all to pitch in for a heavenly birthday gift for Niki: A safer future for all.
Whether that’s as simple as having a conversation about men’s violence against women or if you can afford to, a financial donation to support violence prevention programs and safe referrals for those who need it most.
You can make a donation at www.givenow.com.au/notonemoreniki (link is in my bio and stories) – thank you for your very generous support!
Happy Birthday, Niki! As mum told the Judge who sentenced the man who killed you, ‘My daughter Niki only lived for 23 years but she gave love to last many lifetimes.’ ❤️😢 | Posted on 21/Jun/2024 08:00:33
