Fight against dreaded diseases, people told

Artistes performing 'Burra Katha' to create awareness among the public against alcohol and AIDS in Vijayawada on Tuesday. Photo: V. Raju.

Vasavya Mahila Mandali (VMM) is using the traditional art form ‘burrakatha’ to create awareness among the public on AIDS and alcohol.

As part of the World AIDS Day programmes, Vasavya Mahila Mandali in association with Apollo Tyres Health Care Centre, organised a ‘burrakatha’ at Pantakaluva Centre in Autonagar in the city on Tuesday. Gangadhar and troupe of the city explained the drivers and cleaners on how AIDS and other Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) would affect them.

Project coordinator K. Srinivas Rao said it was the duty of every citizen to fight against the dreaded disease. VMM was conducting sensitisation programmes through brochures, stage plays and documentaries against alcohol and sexual diseases.

Apollo Health Care Centre is organising 21 centres across India, and public can use the services for one month by paying Rs.15 each, said counsellor A.J.R. Satya Prasad.

The troupe explained how alcohol and AIDS was spoiling the lives of the public, particularly those who were in motor field. The artistes appealed to the public to keep away from bad habits and lead happy lives.

VMM lab technician M. Nagendra Babu, out reach staff J. Chandrashekar, V. Raja Mohan and A. Rajesh were among those who conducted the programme.