Menstruation is a natural biological function crucial for human existence. However, as a “not openly talked about” issue, it also silently reinforces the discriminations, superstitions and cultural taboos associated with it. Associating various myths and restrictions with menstruation in a country like India is one of the reasons behind lack of awareness on menstruation. Ignorance of the scientific facts and hygienic health practices lead to unhygienic methods of addressing reproductive health needs that result in adverse health outcomes. It increases the vulnerability for the adolescent girls–increased dropouts, child marriage, early pregnancy, sexual and reproductive health issues, sexual exploitation, and violence etc.

Kallola 2021 focuses on this particular theme of “Periods Talk and Menstrual Health and Hygiene (MHH)”. It will provide an opportunity for the adolescents to reflect and present the different aspects of the issue and show ways for handling the challenges in their own innovative ways. The following section presents some pointers for the participants’ understanding of the concept as well as the selected issues that are closely related to the concept of MHHM. These interrelated concepts as well as the statistical facts may be of relevance to them and provide them with some food for thought.

UNICEF and Aaina decided to come together to collaborate with the filmmaking community in the state to create awareness on child rights issues through the medium of short films. It has completed six successful years with almost 300 short films of 30,60 & 90 seconds duration on different themes pertaining to the rights of children.

Visit the website for more information and to participate.