In Kerala, a unique and bold initiative took place where women gathered not to cry over broken marriages but to celebrate their freedom and fresh start. This event is being called Kerala’s First Divorcee Camp. This shows how society is slowly changing, and women are taking steps to break free from old mindsets.
🌸 Women Celebrate Freedom, Not Failure
Earlier, women were judged harshly for getting divorced. Society often made them feel like it was their fault. But times are changing. Many women now choose peace over painful relationships. They believe that ending a marriage does not mean failure, it means a chance to start fresh.
In Kerala, a group of such strong women joined together to share their experiences and celebrate their courage to walk out of unhappy marriages.
🚩 Divorce Camp Organised By Rafia Afi
This bold step was taken by Rafia Afi, a content creator from Calicut, Kerala. She organised this special camp called Break Free Stories in Ernakulam. This camp welcomed women who were widowed, separated or divorced.
Rafia herself is divorced and understands the pain and judgments women face after ending a marriage. Her aim was simple — to create a space where women could share, heal, and support each other.
👭 What Happened At The Divorce Camp?
In May 2025, 17 women from different backgrounds joined this special camp. They all travelled together in a bus, stayed in tents at a hill station, and spent two days forgetting all pain and celebrating life.
One of the participants, Sofiya, shared her heartbreaking story. She was forced into marriage at 17 just because of her dark skin tone. After ending her marriage in 2023, she faced mental health struggles and depression. But this camp gave her new confidence and healing.
These women didn’t know each other before, but they connected like old friends because of their shared pain and strength.
💡 Why Did Rafia Afi Start This Camp?
Rafia said that in Kerala, when a woman says she’s divorced, people respond with a sad ‘Ayyo’. She didn’t want people’s sympathy because leaving a bad marriage was her choice for a better life.
She believes that women supporting women can heal broken hearts faster than any medicine. Her camp became popular quickly, and after the first one in May, she organised another camp in June 2025, which included activities for mental peace, legal advice, and more.
Rafia’s lawyer friend, who also joined the camp, said she was proud of this initiative as her own mother was a victim of domestic violence.
The third camp just finished successfully, and the fourth camp is already planned for July 19 and 20.
Conclusion
Kerala’s first divorce camp has set an example that women don’t need to feel ashamed of choosing peace over pain. Instead of crying behind closed doors, these women are stepping forward, healing, and living life on their own terms. More such spaces are needed in India where women can find support, strength, and new hope after divorce.
FAQs
What is Kerala’s Divorce Camp?
It is a special camp organised for women who are widowed, divorced, or separated. It gives them a chance to heal, share their stories, and celebrate freedom.
Who organised this Divorce Camp?
Calicut-based content creator Rafia Afi, who is also a divorcee, organised this event.
When did the first camp happen?
The first camp was held in May 2025.
How many women joined the first camp?
A total of 17 women participated in the first divorce camp.
What activities took place during the camp?
Women travelled to a hill station, stayed in tents, shared stories, participated in activities for healing, and spent quality time together.
Is there another camp planned?
Yes, the fourth camp is scheduled for July 19-20, 2025.