Introduction:
On 6NSMarch 2026, Darjeeling Mary Ward Social Centre (DMWSC) organized a large-scale community awareness and mobilization programme to commemorate the global campaign One Billion Rising (OBR) at Khoribari in Darjeeling District, West Bengal.
The programme was organized as part of DMWSC’s ongoing efforts to promote gender justice, women’s empowerment, and community awareness on issues related to violence against women and girls.
The event brought together more than 1100 participants, including women, youth, community leaders, and beneficiaries from various tea garden communities where DMWSC implements development initiatives such as the Collective Voice Project and the Safe Migration, Utthan Project.
The primary objective of the programme was to raise awareness on gender-based violence, promote dignity and equality for women and girls, and encourage collective community action towards building a safe and inclusive society.
The celebration also served as a platform for community participation, cultural expression, awareness generation, and dialogue, where participants shared experiences, showcased talents, and collectively raised their voices against violence and discrimination.
The programme was organized under the global theme: “Rise for Our Bodies – Our Future – Our Earth,” highlighting the interconnectedness of gender justice, environmental sustainability, and community wellbeing.
Event Proceedings and Activities:
The programme began at 02:00 Pm, with the arrival of the Chief Guest, Ms. Gangotri Chakraborty, Former Head of the Department of Law, North Bengal University, who was warmly received by the organizing team and volunteers. Several dignitaries, representatives from partner organizations, community leaders, and participants from different tea garden areas were present.
The programme formally commenced with a welcome address by Ms. Margret Horo, who greeted the Chief Guest, invited dignitaries, and participants. In her address, she highlighted the importance of community solidarity in addressing violence against women and girls and emphasized the need for collective efforts to build a society based on dignity, equality, and justice.
Following this, Ms. Priyanka Saha officially declared the One Billion Rising campaign and explained that it is a global movement that encourages communities across the world to unite and raise their voices against violence and injustice faced by women and girls.
The ceremonial lighting of the lamp was then conducted by the Chief Guest along with the Director and other dignitaries, symbolizing hope, unity, and a shared commitment to justice and empowerment.
Ms. Priyanka Saha also delivered an introductory presentation on the significance of the One Billion Rising movement, highlighting its global origins and its relevance in addressing the widespread issue of violence against women and girls. She emphasized that collective awareness, public mobilization, and community engagement are essential in promoting gender equality.
As a gesture of respect and appreciation, a felicitation ceremony was conducted to honour the Chief Guest and other dignitaries for their continued support and encouragement toward social development initiatives.
Cultural Performances and Community Awareness Activities:
A major highlight of the programme was the series of cultural performances and awareness activities, which served as powerful mediums for communicating important social messages in an engaging and participatory manner.
The cultural segment began with the One Billion Rising theme dance “Break the Chain”, performed by participants from the Collective Voice Project from Bijlimoni Tea Estate and Sayedabad Tea Estate. The dance symbolized resistance against oppression and violence faced by women and girls and portrayed the collective struggle to break social barriers.
Youth and women’s groups also organized a poster and slogan exhibition highlighting themes such as gender equality, environmental responsibility, women’s rights, and community development. The exhibition reflected the global theme “Rise for Our Bodies – Our Future – Our Earth.”
The slogans were presented by Kaushik and John, encouraging the audience to reflect on the role of individuals and communities in bringing positive social change.
A symbolic plant watering ceremony was also organized during the programme, where guests, staff members, and participants watered saplings. This act symbolized growth, care, and the shared responsibility of nurturing a sustainable and equitable future.
Another impactful segment was a street theatre performance by participants from the Safe Migration Project of Kamalpur Tea Estate. The play highlighted critical issues such as human trafficking, unsafe migration, and child labour. Through powerful storytelling, the performers illustrated the risks faced by vulnerable individuals and emphasized the importance of awareness, safe migration practices, and community vigilance.
Several institutions and community groups also presented thematic cultural performances:
Loreto Convent School, Darjeeling presented a group dance focusing on environmental conservation and sustainable development.
Participants from Taipoo Tea Estate performed a vibrant dance celebrating women’s empowerment and resilience.
Arise Foundation presented a powerful skit highlighting the issue of violence against women and the importance of community support for survivors.
Participants from Fulbari Tea Estate performed a dance-cum-skit on child labour, emphasizing the importance of education and child protection.
These performances effectively engaged the audience and strengthened awareness on important social issues through art, storytelling, music, and theatre.
Guest Addresses and Institutional Participation:
The programme also featured insightful speeches from several distinguished guests.
Ms. Roma Reshmi Ekka, Siliguri Mahakuma Sahakari Sabhadhipati, addressed the gathering and highlighted the importance of strengthening grassroots awareness and empowering women through education, leadership, and community support systems. She appreciated the efforts of DMWSC in organizing such a large-scale awareness programme.
Students from Prerna Educational Centre presented a duet song, adding a cultural dimension to the celebration.
The Chief Guest, Ms. Gangotri Chakraborty, delivered an insightful address focusing on legal rights and protections available to women under Indian law. She emphasized the importance of awareness, education, and institutional support in ensuring that women and girls can exercise their rights and live free from violence and discrimination.
Dr. Moumita Bhattacharya from Aradhya Foundation also shared her insights and stressed the importance of collaboration among organizations, institutions, and communities to safeguard the rights and dignity of women and children.
Awareness Sessions and Testimony:
An important awareness session was conducted by the Fire Brigade team from Naxalbari, who provided practical information on fire safety and emergency preparedness. The session highlighted preventive measures and safety practices particularly relevant for densely populated tea garden communities.
A case testimony shared by a survivor deeply moved the audience and served as a powerful reminder of the realities faced by many women and girls. The testimony emphasized the importance of community support, awareness, and access to institutional assistance in addressing violence and exploitation.
Conclusion:
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Sr. Biviyana Lepcha, Director of DMWSC, who expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Guest, invited dignitaries, partner organizations, community leaders, performers, volunteers, and participants for their valuable support and presence.
She acknowledged the efforts of the organizing team, field staff, youth groups, and community members whose dedication ensured the successful implementation of the programme. She also appreciated the enthusiastic participation of women and youth from various tea garden communities who conveyed powerful social messages through cultural performances, exhibitions, and awareness activities.
In her concluding remarks, she emphasized that such community gatherings are vital for strengthening awareness, promoting dialogue, and building solidarity to address the challenges faced by women and girls. She reaffirmed the continued commitment to working with communities and institutions to promote women’s empowerment, gender equality, and social justice.
The programme ended with a group photograph, capturing the spirit of unity and collective commitment among all participants.
Overall, the celebration of “One Billion Rising Campaign” 2026 successfully created a strong platform for community mobilization, awareness generation, and collective engagement. The event highlighted the importance of addressing gender-based violence and encouraged communities to actively contribute to building safer and more inclusive environments for women and girls.
The programme also strengthened partnerships between community groups, institutions, and development organizations, fostering greater collaboration toward promoting the rights, dignity, and wellbeing of women and girls.
Autor: Sr. Biviyana Lepcha, CJ
