Anika Sharma, who is battling a life-threatening illness, has brought together people across communities, with significant support pouring in from Muslim-majority localities of the city.
INDORE — At a time when public discourse is often marked by division, Indore has witnessed a remarkable display of unity. A crowdfunding campaign for three-year-old Anika Sharma, who is battling a life-threatening illness, has brought together people across communities, with significant support pouring in from Muslim-majority localities of the city.
Anika has been diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 2, a rare genetic disorder that progressively weakens muscles. Doctors have recommended a life-saving injection, Zolgensma, which costs approximately Rs 9 crore for a single dose — a sum far beyond the reach of her family.
With the enormous amount required, several local NGOs have stepped in to lead fundraising efforts. Volunteers have been going door to door and setting up collection points on busy streets to gather donations.
In recent days, Muslim-majority neighbourhoods have witnessed long queues of residents eager to contribute. Many donated whatever they could afford. Volunteers were also invited to return during the holy month of Ramadan, when charity holds special significance.
A volunteer associated with the campaign said, “No one asked about the child’s religion. People only saw a little girl who needs help. That is all that mattered.”
Himanshu Soni, one of the organisers, shared his experience after visiting Bombay Bazaar in Indore. In a social media post, he wrote, “During our struggle to collect funds for our little angel Anika Sharma, we reached Bombay Bazaar. What we witnessed was humanity beyond every boundary and difference. Ramadan is a sacred month that carries the message of charity and compassion. We went there with hope and returned with prayers and love.”
According to Soni, with the support of the local councillor, shopkeepers and visitors, nearly Rs 1.20 lakh was collected within a short span. He added that many residents urged the team to return before Eid, when footfall would be higher and more contributions could be gathered.
Over the past three to four months, Anika’s parents have been striving to raise the required amount through crowdfunding. They have reached out to politicians, industrialists, traders, social workers and other public figures.
Singer Palak Muchhal and actor Sonu Sood have extended their support to the campaign. When the Indian cricket team travelled from Jaipur to Indore, Anika’s mother also appealed to captain Rohit Sharma for assistance.
Despite widespread support from thousands of donors, around Rs 4.5 crore has been raised so far — only half of the required amount.
“We are grateful for every rupee and every prayer,” Anika’s father said. “But time is running fast. We are fighting against the clock.”
Doctors have warned that the injection must be administered before Anika’s weight reaches 13.5 kilograms. She currently weighs around 10.5 kilograms and may reach the limit within the next one to one-and-a-half months.
To delay weight gain and buy more time, her diet is being carefully monitored. Instead of regular meals such as roti or rice, she is given controlled portions of juice, milk and fruits.
“Every parent wants to feed their child properly,” her mother said. “But we are scared. We pray that her weight increases slowly so that we get some more time.”
In a final push, the family, along with an NGO, has appealed to schools across Indore. The idea is simple: if approximately 4.5 lakh students donate Rs 100 each, the remaining Rs 4.5 crore could be raised.
“If children come forward to save another child, it will send a powerful message,” a campaign member said. “Even a small contribution can change her life.”
Beyond the fundraising target, what stands out is the spirit of solidarity behind the campaign. Residents from different faiths and backgrounds have come together to support the child.
“A child’s life is more important than anything else,” said a resident from a Muslim neighbourhood. “We prayed for her and donated what we could. This is our duty as human beings.”
Too young to understand the battle unfolding around her, Anika remains unaware of the collective effort underway. But Indore’s united response has offered a powerful reminder that in moments of crisis, compassion can transcend every divide.
