Street Theatre Raises Awareness on the Dangers of Child Marriage at Motijheel

As part of its ongoing efforts to combat child marriage and empower marginalised communities, Kolkata Mary Ward Social Centre (KMWSC) organised a street play at Motijheel under the IDENTITY Project. The play was performed by Natyacharcha Kendra, a professional theatre group from Kolkata, and served as a powerful medium to educate and sensitise the local community about the risks and consequences of child marriage.

The performance used engaging storytelling, expressive dialogues, and impactful visual representation to depict real-life struggles faced by young girls forced into early marriage. Through emotional narratives and relatable characters, the play highlighted critical issues such as loss of education, early pregnancy, domestic violence, and long-term health implications, all of which hinder a girl’s growth and future opportunities.

A large number of adolescents, parents, and local stakeholders gathered to watch the performance, and their reactions reflected both deep concern and awareness. Many were moved by the hard-hitting reality portrayed on stage, sparking discussions about the necessity of preventing child marriage and ensuring a better future for young girls.

The initiative aimed to challenge societal norms, create awareness about legal protections, and encourage families to prioritise education over early marriage. The interactive nature of street theatre allowed for direct engagement with the audience, making it an effective tool for advocacy and behavioural change.

KMWSC remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting child rights and promoting gender equality through community engagement and grassroots awareness programs. This impactful event reinforced the message that every child has the right to a safe, healthy, and empowered future, free from the constraints of forced early marriage.

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