Awareness drive via ‘Danda Nata’ in Odisha’s Kandhamal

Reported by Simanchal Pattanaik

Phulbani, Apr 14:

Voluntary organisations have picked up a unique concept to create awareness on social issues in Odisha’s economically backward Kandhamal district.

Through ‘Danta Nata’, a popular form of open air dance show, the organisations are educating the villagers about the social evils– child marriage and child sexual abuse.

Notably, the district infamous for infant and maternal mortality rates is now witnessing spurt in cases of violence and exploitation of minors.

Save the Children, among other organisations, has been carrying out these awareness campaigns in Phiringia block in the district with the help of campaign materials including banners.

“We are trying to create awareness amongst the local populace on the social evils and injustice against the children such as child marriage and sexual exploitation of the minors,” said Manoj Mishra, District Officer, Save the Children.

They have staged as many as 70 ‘Danda Natas’ so far to send the social messages across. The programmes have also been highly successful in terms of outreach and participation given the high turnout of local populace at such events.

Both the performers and viewers are quite interested about the prospects given a unique blend of social awareness in a thorough entertaining package.

“People have shown enormous interest in watching these performances which are sending social messages. Though efforts are on at government level, social organisations have too taken up such initiatives. This is a welcome move,” an official said.