In a poignant occasion on July 26, 2026, the distinguished halls of the Park Green Hotel in Begumpet, Hyderabad, reverberated with the echoes of courage and resilience. Padmasri Dr. Sunitha Krishnan’s compelling memoir, “I Am What I Am,” was ceremoniously unveiled in a gathering that brought together esteemed figures from both domestic and international domains. The event was graced by the presence of US Consul General Jennifer Larson and Telangana Minister Seethakka, who lent their support and admiration for the cause highlighted by the book.
A Voice for the Unheard
Sunitha Krishnan’s “I Am What I Am” confronts the harrowing issue of sex trafficking, a subject that has long needed a clarion call. The author, a formidable activist in her own right, weaves her personal experiences and profound insights into the fabric of her narrative, providing readers with a first-hand account of the challenges faced by countless individuals entrapped in the web of human trafficking.
A Beacon of Hope and Transformation
Dr. Sunita Krishnan, celebrated for her relentless efforts in combating sex trafficking and for founding the organization Sevasanstha, has become a beacon of hope for survivors. Her book launch, presided over by Minister Seethakka as the chief guest, was a testament to the convergence of political will and grassroots activism. Seethakka’s presence underscored the significance of the occasion and the government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that address such critical issues.
Celebrating a Survivor and a Savior
Both Jennifer Larson and Seethakka paid homage to Sunitha Krishnan’s indomitable spirit, hailing her as a shining example for all rape victims and survivors. Krishnan’s ability to shed light on the lives of those affected by human trafficking, while maintaining her own strength and resilience, has been lauded as the true measure of her greatness.
Seethakka speaking at the event, showered praises saying “Sunita Krishnan’s fighting spirit who saved girls caught in human trafficking is an example for all rape victims. The greatness of Sunita Krishnan is to shed new light in their lives without losing it. Sunita Krishnan is not only a survivor but also a savior. Sunitha Krishnan is a role model for national and international organizations and governments. The government is always there for her struggles and efforts. Congratulations on behalf of the government to all those who participated in Sunitha Krishnan’s struggle.”
Seethakka continued “I Am What I Am delves into the personal journey of Sunitha Krishnan, a tireless activist and child survivor of sexual assault. It highlights her unwavering determination to confront and combat sex trafficking in India. While chronicling the impact of her organization, Prajwala, the focus remains on Sunitha’s struggles and resilience, making it a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the ability of one individual to inspire significant change”
American Consulate General Jennifer Larson said.. ‘ It is a pleasure to work with someone like Sunitha Krishnan. Her fight for victims of human trafficking is inspiring. We are very proud of this journey with her. We have many years of friendship. Her journey, her struggle is forever inspiring. She gave new life to many people. It is a pleasure to come here for her today.’
Minister Seethakka’s Support and Recognition
Seethakka, the chief guest at the launch, exemplified the government’s commitment to such causes. Her presence and the official acknowledgment of Sunitha Krishnan’s fight against sex trafficking underscored the importance of this issue and the need for collective action. The minister’s encouragement was a reflection of the government’s unwavering support for such struggles.
Government Support and Acknowledgment
The government’s unwavering support for Krishnan’s endeavors has been pivotal in her journey. The official recognition and congratulations on behalf of the government extended to all those who have participated in her struggle are a testament to the collective impact of dedicated activists and supporters.
In the annals of history, “I Am What I Am” stands as a significant milestone, a clarion call for change, and a celebration of the human spirit’s indomitable will to overcome and triumph. Sunitha Krishnan’s story is not just a record of survival; it is a message of hope, resilience, and the promise of a better future for all those affected by the scourge of sex trafficking.
A Role Model for the World
Sunitha Krishnan has risen beyond her own experiences to become a role model for national and international organizations and governments alike. Her work has not only saved countless girls from the clutches of human trafficking but has also inspired a global movement, urging the collective to do more in the fight against this heinous crime.
A Beacon of Courage: Sunitha Krishnan
Dr. Sunita Krishnan, the author and a renowned activist, has dedicated her life to fighting the inhuman practice of sex trafficking. Her organization, Prajwala, has been at the forefront of this battle, providing shelter, rehabilitation, and a second chance to countless victims. “I Am What I Am” is not just a memoir; it is a mirror reflecting the dark underbelly of society and the indomitable spirit of a survivor.
Padmasri Sunitha Krishnan shares her thoughts
Sunitha Krishnan said.. ‘Green Park Hotel helped me a lot when I didn’t have a single rupee. Because of that sentiment, I thought I would release the book here today. Thanks to Minister Seethakka for coming to my book launch. I always wanted to meet her. I know her fighting spirit and hardships. It is a pleasure to have her as our minister. My relationship with Jennifer is not what it used to be. They supported me a lot. I am standing here with the support of my friends and family. I feel very connected with everyone who is here today. There are two reasons for writing this book. One is the death of our father. My father wanted to write an autobiography. We published it two months before his death. He passed away two months later. Everyone who came to his funeral read it and thought it was great. They came praising our great father. After seeing that, I wanted to write my autobiography as well. Bollywood people have prepared a biopic to make a film about me. They asked my permission. But I said no. They took it from YouTube, Wikipedia, and Google. That’s when I decided that I wanted to write my own story. I wrote this book in 13 days. I named it Being Survivor. But everyone said that you are not a survivor, but a fighter. Finally, I said ‘I am what I am’.
An Excerpt from “I Am What I Am”
The following excerpt from Sunitha Krishnan’s memoir reveals the brutal reality that she, and countless others, have faced:
Any sexual assault is a traumatic event that leaves deep scars on the psyche of a survivor. Shame, guilt, and the feeling of being tainted are universal emotions that follow. At fifteen, I was sexually assaulted in a village where I was working on a literacy campaign. My persistence in motivating girls to return to school had borne fruit, and we had become friends. Yet, that night, as I walked back to my room, I was ambushed by a group of men. The violence that followed left me with no recollections, only the physical evidence on my body.
Sunitha Krishnan’s narrative is not only a recounting of her personal journey but also a call to action. It is a testament to the strength and resilience that can emerge from the deepest shadows of trauma.
The Aftermath: From Rage to Resolve
When she returned home, Sunitha Krishnan was met with silent shock, her family’s response a complex mix of protection and pain. Her father’s gentle silence provided a space for healing, a stark contrast to the harsh judgment of the panchayat, who saw her as the instigator of her own misfortune. Yet, from this crucible of injustice, Sunitha’s resolve only grew stronger. She knew that the true criminals were not the victims but those who perpetrated and condoned such acts.