Street performers in Bhubaneswar spread message against suicide on eve of 79th Independence Day
Two men turned a street corner in the busy Master Canteen area of Bhubaneswar into a small stage, not for entertainment, but to save lives. With loud slogans, emotional performances, and the National Flag in hand, they raised awareness about the growing problem of suicides on Thursday.
The two men did not project themselves merely as performers, but as the voice of those who felt unheard and as a helping hand for anyone in distress. Their message was clear and direct: “Suicide is not the solution.”
Through street plays, they acted out real-life scenarios of sadness and hopelessness, before showing how courage and hope could change the story. Their message clearly stated, “Stop! Don’t take that step! Life means struggle, fight for it!” Curious onlookers stopped to watch, and received the message with an open mind.
They travelled across the city, bringing messages related to current issues at markets, bus stands, and street corners to aware people to not resort to ending their lives. On the eve of every Independence Day and Republic Day, they combine patriotism with social responsibility, where they distribute free flags and raise awareness.
Their campaign for this Independence Day came after recent incidents, including the FM College case, where a student set herself on fire. They shared with the audience that failures, rejections, and hardships are temporary storms, not reasons to end one's life. Through their performances, they urged people to think about their parents, friends, and loved ones who would be left behind in pain.
The two performers said that their mission was simple: to break the silence, bring hope, and remind people that no matter how dark today might seem, tomorrow could be brighter.