Strictly star Nikita Kanda's desperate plea as she shares harrowing details of domestic violence

TV presenter has told of harrowing details about in her life for the first time.

Nikita, who was on BBC's last year, revealed the trauma she faced after experiencing domestic violence in her past. In an emotional post, the 29-year-old star encouraged her followers to seek help if they are going through such ordeals.

"It's something I've kept out of the public eye and even away from most people that know me, friends, colleagues and followers. But I feel a sense of duty to use my platform and use something negative that happened in my life for hopefully a positive change," the posted.

"There is a major rise of violence against women and girls in this country which needs to just simply STOP! 2-3 women a week are dying because of this!"

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Nikita, who became the presenter of the Asian Network Breakfast in July 2022, added: "This may be a shock to many of you, but I grew up in a very violent environment and experienced a huge amount of abuse physically and mentally for years.

"The trauma of watching the abuse happen severely to my incredible mum and then experiencing it myself is something I never thought I would get through. It's something that changes you forever, how you view the and doesn't ever leave you no matter how much you try to forget.

"I never want any woman, child or mother to experience what we have as a family. In the Asian community, we're taught not to talk about these topics, sweep it under the rug and hide it. But I hope we can start speaking more freely, stamping out any judgement and just making sure women are safe."

Partnered with Gorka Marquez, the pair were the second couple to leave Strictly in 2023. Nikita, born in Birmingham, had described her participation in the programme as a "dream come true".

In her Instagram message, she urged her followers to look into domestic violence charity Refuge for support around domestic violence. The organisation provides specialist support for women and children experiencing domestic violence.

One follower penned: "So brave for sharing - sending my love to you and your family always." Another added: "So brave for sharing your story Nikita! And I am sure this will help loads of others speak up. Sending loads of love."

Abuse is a crime and it is never your fault. You don’t have to deal with this alone. Call the freephone National Domestic Violence Helpline at any time on . Source: