Birbhum Sanskriti Bahini Uses Street Theatre to Promote Blood Donation Awareness on World Blood Donor Day

The COVID-19 pandemic created a severe shortage of blood across the country. The crisis was particularly difficult for children suffering from thalassemia, who require regular blood transfusions. With COVID cases rising again in some areas, concerns over blood shortages also increased.

To address this issue and encourage voluntary blood donation, a nationwide awareness campaign was organized during the “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav” celebrations. As part of this initiative, the National School of Drama (NSD), New Delhi, undertook programs to raise public awareness about the importance of blood donation.

14 June, observed as World Blood Donor Day, was chosen for special awareness activities. Under NSD’s initiative, theatre groups from 22 states performed awareness programmes at 75 locations across India. The campaign carried the message:

“Blood Donation is a Great Donation”

As part of this national movement, Birbhum Sanskriti Bahini organized and performed a street play (path natak) in Kolkata to encourage voluntary blood donation.

The performances were held at prominent public locations, including:

• SSKM Hospital
• Howrah Station
• Bagbazar
• Areas near Girish Mancha

The street play was designed to educate people about the importance of donating blood and to motivate citizens to become voluntary blood donors.

Dr. Ujjal Mukhopadhyay, Director of Birbhum Sanskriti Bahini, stated that the primary objective of the initiative was to increase awareness among the public regarding blood donation and help ensure that blood shortages do not affect patients in need.

The article highlights the role of theatre as a powerful medium for social awareness and public service, demonstrating how cultural organizations can contribute to important humanitarian causes.