It is believed to have over 50,000 active prostitutes working daily.
It is estimated that the sex trade in Sonagachi generates over $1 billion annually.
located in North Kolkata near the intersection of Jatindra Mohan Avenue (north of C.R. Avenue) with Beadon Street and Sovabazar
The name Sonagachi means "Golden Tree" in Bengali.
Sonagachi is alleged to be Asia’s Largest Hub for Prostitutes with more than 3000 prostitution centers running legally.
It is estimated that over 10,000 women are trafficked into Sonagachi each year.
There is a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS among sex workers in Sonagachi.
“I am a sex worker,” Das said. “Just like others are engineers and doctors and pilots, my job is to give sexual pleasure.”
Some of the high category girls would earlier charge Rs. 6000 to 6500. Now we work on the fixed rate system for all for Rs. 500 per client for one hour.