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.