Soreng observes Menstrual Health & Awareness Day 2025 with ‘Period Fest’

GANGTOK, : To mark Menstrual Health and Awareness Day 2025, the NGO Sachhi Saheli, in collaboration with the Sikkim government, hosted a transformative event at Timberbong School. The initiative, themed “Men for Menstruation,” emphasized the role of men in fostering a supportive and stigma-free environment around menstruation.

A press release informs that the day began with an inspiring Pad Yatra, as students from Soreng School marched to Soreng market, holding placards shaped like pads with empowering messages. Their enthusiastic slogans echoed through the streets, challenging societal taboos and advocating for menstrual equality.

The event was graced by chief guest, MLA Aditya Golay, who commended the efforts of Sachhi Saheli and emphasized the need for a stigma-free Sikkim.

Dr. Surbhi Singh, president of Sachhi Saheli, inaugurated the event, passionately advocating for menstrual normalization. A symbolic cap toss marked the event’s climax—students discarded their fears and stigma (written on their caps) while proudly wearing new ones inscribed with “Ab Pata Chalne Do” (Now Let It Be Known).

At Timberbong School, the participants engaged in an interactive Period Fest, featuring various themed zones:

            •          Health Zone: Experts addressed menstrual health myths and misconceptions, offering guidance on what is normal and when to seek help.

            •          Pad Zone: Displayed various reusable and disposable menstrual products, enabling students to make informed choices.

            •          Fun Zone: Featured engaging games such as a period myth-busting Snake and Ladder, Spin the Wheel, and the Amla Juice Period Quiz, breaking taboos through interactive learning.

Students expressed their aspirations at the Wish Tree, envisioning a future where menstruation is normalized. At the Selfie Point, participants proudly marked their hands with red spots, symbolizing the breaking of menstrual stigma, the release mentions.

The cultural performances added depth and emotion to the day. Students from Timberbong School staged a thought-provoking play on menstrual challenges, while Dodang School performed a vibrant Nepali dance celebrating menstrual positivity. Students from Bariakhop and Pakigaon showcased their talents through skits and dances, dismantling menstrual taboos through creative expression.

This initiative reinforced that menstruation is not just a women’s issue but a collective societal responsibility. The event served as the beginning of a larger movement, with plans to expand menstrual awareness initiatives across India, the release mentions.