One Billion Rising 2026 Celebrated at the Brickfields in Pujali, South 24 Parganas

Kolkata Mary Ward Social Centre (KMWSC) observed One Billion Rising (OBR) 2026 on 14th February at the brickfield premises in Pujali, Budge Budge, bringing the global movement directly to migrant brickfield communities. The celebration was aligned with this year’s theme, “Rise For Our Bodies – Our Earth – Our Future.”

One Billion Rising is a worldwide movement that calls for an end to violence against women and girls and affirms dignity, equality, and justice for all. By hosting the programme at the brickfield, KMWSC ensured that women, children, and families who are often socially and economically marginalised could actively participate in this global call for change.

The programme witnessed the participation of nearly 1400 community members, including migrant families, children of the Brickfield School Project, teachers, local stakeholders, and invited dignitaries and well wishers, from as far as St. Stephens Green College in Dublin, Ireland. The event began with an opening circle introducing the spirit of OBR and its significance.

The celebration featured powerful performances by children and teachers, including dance-dramas and recitations focusing on women’s empowerment, girls’ education, environmental protection, courage, and collective action. Themes of bodily dignity, the protection of the Earth, and the safeguarding of children’s futures were interwoven throughout the programme.

A symbolic plantation ceremony by the guests reinforced the message that protecting the Earth is inseparable from protecting human dignity and future generations.

The programme concluded with the collective anthem “Break the Chain,” as participants stood united in solidarity against violence and injustice.

Through this celebration, KMWSC reaffirmed its continued commitment to standing alongside migrant and marginalised communities in their pursuit of dignity, safety, equality, and a more just future.

“Rising Together: Protecting Bodies, Preserving Earth, Securing the Future.”

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