HIDDEN ANGELS

Daulatdia is Asia’s largest brothel, resembling a small town yet functioning as a prison. Surrounded by vibrant blooming trees, it contains over two thousand shacks, each housing a sex worker. Originally established by the British, it is now owned by a powerful family and strategically located between a railway station and a busy harbor.

In Bangladesh, one of the few Islamic-majority countries where prostitution is legal, Daulatdia has become the epicenter of this industry, plagued by drug use and human trafficking. This vast complex is self-sufficient, offering markets, bars, beauty salons, and more, ensuring that the residents have little reason to leave—even if they could. Once inside, strict rules and hierarchies dictate life, immersing visitors in a bustling atmosphere that can feel overwhelming.

Approaching the women is often challenging; many fear foreigners and hide their identities. A few, however, show curiosity, fascinated by my tattoos and appearance. They often ask me about life beyond the brothel, longing for a glimpse into a world they see as unattainable. They refer to themselves as “sex workers,” servicing about three thousand men daily. Most are very young, with many entering the trade at around fourteen, earning only a few dollars per encounter, while some are brought in through deceitful promises of well-paid jobs.

These women face social stigma, often feeling they have no choice but to remain, providing for families while accepting the harsh realities of their lives. As night falls, the narrow streets light up with music and dancing in makeshift clubs, where drug use is rampant, and customers treat women as mere objects.

Rani, a girl I met, shared her painful story. Sold into this life at fifteen, she described a childhood filled with false hopes. Her body bears the scars of violence from clients, and she relies on harmful steroids to maintain an appearance that attracts customers. Her room is adorned with smiling dolls and posters of film stars—symbols of dreams that feel forever out of reach. Despite her struggles, Rani remains resilient, determined to survive and share her story, emphasizing their humanity amidst a life of commodification.