In addition to launching its monthly Shubhayu Health & Wellness Dialogue series on World Health Day, the Child in Need Institute (CINI) organized a potent street theater project to draw attention to pressing public health issues.

Through expert-led conversations, the Shubhayu Dialogue Series is intended to serve as an ongoing platform for knowledge exchange, raising awareness in various communities, and enhancing the capabilities of CINI employees. The first session, Non-Communicable Diseases: The Silent Epidemic, emphasized the importance of prevention, early detection, and ongoing care amid the rising prevalence of diabetes and hypertension in India.

To raise awareness of drowning as a silent but serious public health issue, CINI organized a powerful street play called “Ghum Bhangano Gaan” in front of South City College. The performance highlighted the critical need for prompt intervention and CPR awareness. Bengali actor Rahul Arunoday Banerjee’s recent tragic drowning case served as a sobering reminder that performing CPR right away can mean the difference between life and death. The audience was further engaged by a live CPR demonstration, which reinforced useful, life-saving techniques.

“Through Shubhayu, we aim to build informed communities and promote preventive healthcare practices. On World Health Day, it is critical to acknowledge the critical role that geriatric care plays in managing chronic illnesses and enhancing quality of life,” said Dr. Arunangshu Talukdar, Professor & Head, Department of Geriatric Medicine, Medical College, Kolkata.

“Shubhayu is a step towards empowering both communities and our frontline workers with knowledge to address evolving health challenges effectively,” said Dr. Samir Chaudhuri.

With the help of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, CINI keeps raising community awareness and readiness while demonstrating that prompt action can save lives.

Priyanka Dutta