HIV/AIDS West Bengal
In the past year and a half a large-eyed, straight-talking middle class housewife in a blue saree and big bindi has been ruling the Kolkata billboards, fm radio and tv spots, much to the distaste of many a Bengali bhadrolok. Buladi, a cheery, jhola -carrying, stuffed doll, is the mascot of West Bengal State aids Prevention and Control Society's (wbsaps) beefed up hiv / aids awareness campaign.
The outspoken and largely popular Buladi, who makes statements like "only condoms ensure a healthy sex life" and "have fun but responsibly, always carry a condom" is about to have her mouth washed with soap. Following complaints from certain schools that the content of advertisements were objectionable, the Left Front government has ordered wbsaps to change them to omit "offending words" like "condom" and " sangam", wbsaps is none too pleased and has publicly declared that editing the advertisements would undermine their campaign against the killer virus. At a time when India has achieved the dubious distinction of outstripping South Africa as the world's largest hiv infected population, prejudice and squeamishness over word use should take a backseat, wbsaps officials say.
The issue has to be tackled head on and that's exactly what Buladi, in her blunt, yet non-threatening way, tries to do -- shock people out of their placid complacency.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.