Interview: Sharing healing from abuse on Aamir's show

She went to the show, shared her story and returned with the delight of having brought glory to God. Cindrella Prakash was featured on the second episode of Aamir Khan's debut TV show 'Satyamev Jayate' that is telecast across multiple channels at the same time and is watched by millions across the country. While the first episode dealt with the issue of female foeticide, the second episode highlighted the issue of child sex abuse. Cindrella shared her excruciating experience of being abused by a 55-year-old man when she was just 12. Cindrella talks to CT on the show, how Jesus healed her and her plans for the future.

What inspired you to go on the show hosted by Aamir Khan?
My dad's constant advice - if it bring glory to God, do it. That has been my driving factor in most of life's decisions. I live for Christ and Christ alone.

That apart, while growing up I always sought elder sisters for inspiration. I always hoped that there might just be someone like me. In the sense that, there might just be someone going through issues that I was being subject to but sadly, I didn't find any. That also was the reason of my going. I believe in inspirational living. I want to be the voice for the voiceless. Jesus did that too. I'm only following.

Kindly share in few lines the ordeals you underwent and how you also found freedom out of it?
While I was growing up, I was subject to child sexual abuse by a man my grandfather's age. He used to take Bible Study at our place. He has known me since I was in my mother's womb. He was a close confidante of our family and in a much planned manner, he came over when I was alone at home and molested me. That evening, I could not even move a muscle. It took me time to even cry after he left. Purely so because I did not understand what just happened. I sat confused. After a while did I understand that someone completely violated our love and trust. I was shattered.

For a long time I thought time would heal me. But guess what, time doesn't heal, Jesus does. It took me a while to get into God's presence again. A while because I was angry with God. I questioned Him a lot. Having grown up learning that God does everything in our lives with a purpose, I was too naive to understand God's purpose behind this terrible violation in my life. Looking back now, I'm convinced that God allowed it in my life just so He would use my brokenness as a blessing to many others.

It is a small price to pay.

How have people responded after your testimony on the show?
I have received over 2000 messages, SMSes, mails, calls and tweets from people appreciating and encouraging me for this bold step. Not just that, people from all over the country and the world have shared their nightmares with me and graciously told me how my interview helped them to get out of their trauma. Many girls and guys have written in saying they have never been able to speak to anybody about their abuse experience but after watching my interview, they would speak up. Thanks be to God! Besides, I was trending on twitter too!

Apart from this, on a lighter note, my announcement of being 'single' has attracted about 100 proposals! That's just sweet.

How did you come to the Lord?
I was saved when I was between 6 to 10 years of age, thanks to my Sunday school teacher. I have backslid, I have been hypocritical, I have run the whole gamut of sin but finally the Lord pulled me back into His fold again. Since then, there has been no turning back. I am crazily in love with Christ. My walk with the Lord has been filled with learnings. From being a non-women loving person to now living with a burden for women; to be Biblical is what the Lord has brought me too. Our God is cool!

I belong to the fundamental Baptist church and I love my Pastor! My Pastor is my spiritual father and he has also been extremely instrumental in shaping up my life. Jesus has blessed me with an awesome Church, family and a wonderful set of Christ-loving friends. These are people who pull me up when I slip and support me in every step that I take. I am ever grateful to God for this bunch!

Apart from growing in my Church, I usually teach songs to youths.

Is there any Biblical passage or verse that is close to your heart?
Psalms 46:1 - "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble". This is the one verse that keeps ringing in my head all the time. And the other one is Philippians 1:21 - "For me to live is Christ and die is gain.."

How supportive has been your family, both mentally and spiritually?
My family is what I treasure the most in my life. My mother was on dialysis for 11 years of her life but I never saw the smile on her face fade. Not even on her last day.

My dad is a mighty prophet of God who walks with the Holy Spirit. In our house, if any guest comes, my dad serves him/her with some food and beverage and a big dose of the Bible. You cannot leave our house without knowing something new about Jesus.

My brother lives in London and he is my biggest critic. He has a foresight. He loves my music and sows in to it with a lot of world view expertise.

These are people who I can do nothing without. My dad and my brother are powerful men of God who always support me.

What sparked your interest in Christian song writing and singing?
I love writing songs, articles etc. It is just a talent that Jesus has blessed me with and I use it exclusively for Him. God made me take to the pen and paper when I was subject to abuse and most importantly when my mom left for her heavenly abode.

I have released two albums so far - Mehfuz and Mehfuz Vani.

I believe Jesus paid the highest price on the cross of Calvary and so my music is never sold. They are available for free distribution only.

How do you want to serve the Lord in the future?
I want to continue to write songs for the Lord. I want to delve into deeper realms of revelation from the Lord and bring them out through music. I want to serve the Lord and His people in an innovative manner, through medium yet untouched and 'Satyamev Jayate' was a God given step towards that direction.

Basically, I want to follow wherever Jesus leads.