GANGTOK, :
Sikkim State AIDS Control Society commemorated World AIDS Day with a grand
daylong celebration at MG Marg here on Sunday. The event aimed to raise
awareness about HIV/AIDS and unite the community in its ongoing battle against
the disease.
This
year’s global theme, “Let’s Take the Rights Path,” underscores the collective
goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
The
event had Health minister G.T. Dhungel as the chief guest, Gangtok MLA Delay
Namgyal Barfungpa and dignitaries. The day also served as a moment of
reflection for those affected by HIV/AIDS, honouring their struggles while
reaffirming the commitment to prevention and support initiatives.
The
event opened with a spirited Maruni dance performed by Aditya Ramudamu.
Following this, awards were presented to the educators and schools associated
with the Red Ribbon Club, recognizing their efforts in spreading awareness and
education about HIV/AIDS.
Chakung
senior secondary school and its nodal teacher Radeep Rai received accolades for
their exceptional contributions.
A
poignant musical tribute by Remanti Sangeet Academy captured the emotional
essence of the day, with a performance dedicated to individuals living with
HIV/AIDS. This was followed by a skit by Ananta Theatre Group, which
highlighted the importance of safe sex practices and addressed the persistent
social stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS.
Music
played a central role in the celebrations, with performances by Red Fest winner
BiPolar Shadows and local favourite Sofium, a Lepcha folk band. Hip Hop artist UNB
also graced the stage, leading up to the evening’s highlight - a performance by
the Sabin Rai and the Pharaohs.
The
celebration featured a diverse range of creative activities, including a
cosplay competition which was won by Mariam and a painting contest won by
Chogyal Lama. A fashion show, choreographed by Lagstal Academy, added a
creative flair to the event. Dresses designed by women living with HIV were modelled
by healthcare workers and professional models. A key moment in the ramp walk
was when a transgender model showcased a dress made entirely of condoms,
symbolizing the importance of safe sex in preventing HIV transmission.
SSACS
project director Dr. Diki Wangmu Phempu emphasized the significance of
awareness and community efforts in combating HIV/AIDS. She lauded the
participation of organizations like ‘The Birds and the Bees Talk’, which
educates adolescents about reproductive health, and congratulated all winners
of the day’s competitions.
With
approximately 300 individuals in Sikkim currently living with HIV, the event
highlighted the ongoing need for awareness, compassion, and support. As the State
moves forward, events like this serve as a reminder of the shared
responsibility to tackle HIV/AIDS while fostering inclusion and breaking
stigmas.
