Menstrual rights and dignity discussion draws artists at UNICEF Odisha and Aaina event

Artists, musicians, actors, filmmakers, and writers joined UNICEF Odisha and Aaina to discuss menstrual rights and dignity ahead of Menstrual Hygiene Day on May 28. Speakers said menstruation is linked to equality, education, and inclusion, and argued that art, storytelling, music, and media can reduce stigma, build empathy, and normalise public conversation.

Artists, musicians, actors and storytellers joined a discussion on menstrual rights and dignity in Odisha on Wednesday. Speakers said stigma still limits honest talk about periods. The group urged normal conversations through art, culture and public engagement. The event aimed to help people speak with respect and confidence about menstrual health.

The session, Creative Voices for Menstrual Rights & Dignity, was organised by UNICEF Odisha and Aaina. It was held ahead of Menstrual Hygiene Day on May 28. Creative professionals and social sector representatives attended. They discussed how films, songs, stories and media can build empathy and support open dialogue on menstruation.

Menstrual rights and dignity linked to equality, education and inclusion

Prasanta Dash, Chief Field Office, UNICEF Odisha, said menstruation was not only about health or hygiene. Dash linked it to dignity, confidence, equality, education and inclusion. Dash said policies and judgments matter, yet mindsets shift through human conversations and empathy. Dash added that artists can influence society by connecting emotionally with audiences.

Dash said creative work could weaken long-held stigma. Dash noted that a song, film or story can prompt young people to talk more freely. The discussion also focused on using storytelling to build understanding. Speakers said community conversations can feel safer when art leads them.

Menstrual rights and dignity framed as shared responsibility

Sneha Mishra, Secretary of Aaina, said menstrual health should not be seen only through hygiene. Mishra said it was also about rights, dignity, equality and inclusion. Mishra said talk about menstruation must move from silence and shame. Mishra called for empathy, awareness and collective responsibility.

Mayor of Bhubaneswar Sulochana Das asked for open discussion in homes and schools. Sulochana Das also highlighted public spaces as important for change. Sulochana Das said, "Menstrual health is not merely a womans issue. It is a matter of dignity, health and equal rights. Society must ensure that every girl and woman has access to safe menstrual hygiene facilities.\"

Menstrual rights and dignity: role of culture, music and public dialogue

Jagadananda, co-founder of Centre for Youth and Social Development CYSD, said taboos still continue. Jagadananda pointed to ongoing awareness work by governments and civil society organisations. Even so, Jagadananda said social beliefs remain hard to shift. Speakers said long-term engagement is needed across communities.

Singer Susmita Das said music can support social change. Susmita Das said songs can help young people speak more openly. Participants also stressed involving boys and men in the conversation. They called for continued dialogue and shared responsibility. The meeting ended with calls for a more inclusive and period-friendly society.

With inputs from PTI