Breaking the Silence: Indian Adolescents Tackle Sexual Health Taboos
Adolescents in India are addressing the stigma and lack of information surrounding sexual health
With 253 million adolescents, India boasts the world’s largest adolescent population, with one in five individuals aged between 10 to 19 years old. However, despite these numbers, many Indian teens continue to grapple with the stigma and lack of information related to their sexual health. Fortunately, a new initiative seeks to bridge this gap.
Empowering Adolescents Through Dialogue
Young champions lead the way in discussing sexual and reproductive health
“Kuch Ankahee Baatein” is an innovative audiobook produced in a podcast-like format by and for adolescents. It features the voices of young girls and boys who have faced social stigma surrounding sexual and reproductive health. These courageous adolescents are breaking down barriers by initiating discussions about various aspects of adulthood, including topics like menstruation, early pregnancy, and peer pressure.
A Voice for Change
Adolescents from diverse backgrounds share their experiences and insights
The audiobook is hosted by four young champions – Rinku, Pinky, Kirti, and Sneha. Their discussions often involve other children from states like Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand, creating a platform for open dialogue.
Spreading Awareness Beyond Audiobooks
The audiobook serves as a tool for teachers, parents, and community leaders
The trailer of “Kuch Ankahee Baatein” has already gained substantial attention across various social media platforms. It is not only a valuable resource for adolescents but also for educators, parents, and community leaders looking to foster a healthy understanding of sexual and reproductive health rights among children.
Conclusion
The “Kuch Ankahee Baatein” initiative is helping to remove the shroud of silence surrounding sexual health issues in India. By providing a safe space for dialogue and sharing personal experiences, these adolescents are empowering themselves and others to better understand and embrace their sexual and reproductive health rights.
