One Billion Rising 2016
February 22, 2016
VOICE OF ONE BILLION RISING
The global call to Listen, Act and Rise for Justice was answered by people of Kolkata on the 13thof February 2016. Kolkata Mary Ward Social Centre (KMWSC), the flag bearers against violence and abuse of women, organized a captivating event at Mohurkunj from 4pm till 8pm. A staggering audience of 5000 including school and college students, parents, activist, NGO’s and people from all walks of life joined hands to protest against the escalating injustice in society. A flash mob flagged off the programme calling for a uprising to break the chains around women. Women ever conscious of their body revolted to live by their choice.
Hon’ Justice Nadira Patheyria, the chief guest of the event encouraged women to raise voice and stand up to lead a dignified life. A universal call to the women to stand up against inequality by the Hon’ Justice, empowered young and old to wake up and battle for justice in life. Students of Loreto Schools, La Martinier’s, Vidya Sagar School of Social Work put up scintillating performances won accolades from the audience. Tales of social evils, change of ideas were all on board of the performances. The vulnerable child domestic workers rehabilitated by KMWSC, were thrilled to display their dancing skills inspiring many to rise up in life. Never having the chance to perform on stage 12 incredible hearts trained by Kolkata Ucchass (a contemporary dance troupe) portrayed today’s Durga (the venerable Hindu goddess embodying power) on stage.
Star performers, Kamran and band – Voicez, Shayne Hyrapiet and Channell Grosser made the audience tap their feet spreading the message of women empowerment loud and clear. Music and dance once again broke the shackles of social impositions on women.
KMWSC took the opportunity to honor two indomitable spirits, women who showed outstanding courage to come up against all odds in life. Commercial sex worker Meena, sold early in her life to the brothels of Sonagachi was felicitated by Justice Nadira Patheyria for her struggle to educate her three girl children with the help of KMWSC. Punita, a young child labour transformed into a trained beautician and proud owner of a beauty parlour with assistance from KMWSC, was also felicitated. The evening was an opportunity to keep the spirit of the city of joy alive to create an egalitarian society.
KMWSC thanks Kolkata for its generous and dedicated support and participation in One Billion Rising global movement. Together we can inspire, hope and create opportunities for a better tomorrow.
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