The above is a snippet from an awareness video I shot in association with the Women Development and Child Welfare Department (WDCW) of Telangana, to raise awareness about the Child Helpline number 1098. Every year, India witnesses thousands of illegal child marriages, and thousands of kids are orphaned, abandoned, abused, forced into child labour, or trafficked, and with COVID-19, these numbers had a drastic rise. But often, even after we see a child is being abused, we turn our backs on them because we do not want to be involved, do not want our perfect life to be disturbed.

How difficult is it for us to take a step to change the fate of that kid in need? Actually, it is just a click away. So be that guardian angel young eyes have been yearning for by dialing 1098 - the child headline this number which spreads hope for numerous children across India. It works 24*7 free for children in need of aid and assistance.

I have seen and heard many stories, and trust me, your one step to making that call can change lives because every child deserves a childhood. I am grateful to my team and the WDCW of Telangana for being my guide and support in the mission to prevent and stop child abuse.

So next time you see a helpless child, I urge you to be that hope and call 1098. Remember, you can change a child's fate, and it is just a phone call away!