Special Correspondent: Arun Sharma

East Delhi: This Janmashtami, the GTB Enclave Ramleela Ground will witness a unique blend of religious devotion, cultural traditions and public health awareness. Alongside Krishna Leela, the Jhula Mela and a series of cultural programmes, devotees will also be sensitised about disease prevention, hygiene and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.


The special health-awareness campaign has been initiated by Tej Pratap Hindu, with the objective of using the large public gathering as a platform to spread awareness about common diseases and preventive healthcare.


Health Message Before Krishna Leela
According to Tej Pratap Hindu, health-awareness messages will be delivered to the public before the staging of Krishna Leela each day. People will be informed in simple language about early symptoms of various diseases, preventive measures, personal hygiene, nutritious food and the importance of seeking medical advice at the right time.


Special emphasis will be placed on seasonal illnesses and infections that tend to increase with changes in weather. Awareness messages will also focus on preventive measures against H1N1 (swine flu), dengue, malaria and other seasonal diseases.


Religious Platforms Can Promote Social Welfare
The organisers believe that religious and cultural programmes can serve a larger social purpose beyond worship and entertainment. The life and teachings of Lord Krishna offer important lessons on duty, public welfare and service to humanity. The health-awareness initiative has been conceived in the same spirit.


Tej Pratap Hindu said that devotion and concern for public health should go hand in hand.


“Faith and concern for health are equally important. If even one person becomes aware of a disease in time through our programme and takes precautions to protect his or her family, that will be the biggest success of this campaign.”


Appeal to Devotees to Stay Alert
As part of the campaign, devotees will be encouraged to maintain cleanliness, wash their hands regularly, exercise necessary precautions in crowded places and avoid ignoring symptoms of illness.


People will also be advised not to self-medicate without proper medical advice and to consult a qualified healthcare professional whenever required.


The Janmashtami celebrations at the GTB Enclave Ramleela Ground are therefore expected to present a distinctive combination of faith, culture and public-health responsibility, with organisers hoping that devotees will return home not only with the message of devotion but also with greater awareness about protecting their health and that of their families.


Organisers’ Message
“Let there be devotion, values and a sense of responsibility towards health. Let us become aware and contribute to building a healthier society.”