Let’s celebrate. Period

A musical event at Yeoor, Thane, in 2019

Taboos against menstruation are impacting society in ways we aren't talking about yet," believes Nishant Bangera, founder of Maasika Mahotsav, a festival conducted annually in May that celebrates menstruation. Recognising the need for long-term sustainable solutions, especially in rural communities, he created the festival in 2017 with the hope of breaking taboos.

A segment of Maasika Mahotsav will be held virtually

This year, the festival will see an array of virtual events, partnering up with organisations in six African nations - Rwanda, Kenya, Namibia, South Sudan, Uganda and Namibia. "Our festival cannot be recreated entirely online, as the communities we want to reach are presently offline; this year, we're trying to replicate our efforts in a symbolic manner," he reveals.

A glimpse of the 2019 celebrations

Offline activities will be carried out in partner countries, through workshops, talks, documentary screenings and more. "We're trying to bring all partners together, exchange innovative solutions and create an impact. For instance in Nepal, they will organise documentary screenings, while in Zambia, rappers and musicians will perform," shares Bangera. In Rwanda, festivities include awareness sessions and period games while in Lusaka, Zambia, art exhibitions and musical performances will take place.

Navya Nanda and Nishant Bangera

The festival has also gathered support from Navya Naveli Nanda, who is the founder of NGO Project Naveli. "It is a creative yet impactful way to communicate themes that have been stigmatised for too long and reaches communities that need it the most," adds Nanda. The event will begin on May 21 in Nepal, with hopes of continuing it for the next three months.

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