07 Nov
NATIONAL CANCER AWARENESS DAY
As we gear up for National Cancer Awareness Day on November 7, it’s a good time to reflect on something that that hits home for many of us — CANCER. Trust me, writing this in blurred eyes with tears and heavy heart indeed feels extremely crestfallen for me to talk about; but it’s crucial we talk about it openly and support one another. This day is about shining a light on cancer awareness and supporting those who are fighting this battle.
WHY WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT CANCER:
Cancer isn’t just a statistic; it’s a reality for millions of today; it’s hard not to know someone who’s been touched by this disease. Alarming fact is that Cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and India is no exception. According to the National Cancer Registry Programme, the incidence of cancer in India is rising alarmingly, with an estimated 1.3 million new cases diagnosed each year. Factors contributing to this increase include lifestyle changes, pollution, dietary habits, and genetic predisposition. We can’t deny our responsibility of spreading awareness about this disease now by all possible means because awareness can make a huge difference! Awareness is the first step in the fight against cancer. Many individuals remain unaware of the risk factors, symptoms, and preventive measures associated with various types of cancer. National Cancer Awareness Day aims to bridge this knowledge gap by disseminating information and fostering conversations around the disease.
TAKE ACTION: SCREENING AND PREVENTION:
Regular screenings can be lifesaving, yet many of us put off those check-ups. This day encourages us to prioritize our health. Many hospitals and organizations offer free screenings and informative sessions—let’s take advantage of those resources! Think of it as taking a proactive step for your health and the health of those you care about. It’s never too early to start, and sometimes, a simple test can make all the difference. It’s a small step that could make a big difference.
HIGHLIGHTING PREVENTION:
Let’s face it—life can be busy and stressful, and healthy habits can easily slip to the bottom of our to-do lists. National Cancer Awareness Day serves as a gentle reminder to prioritise our well-being. Small changes, like eating more fruits and veggies, staying active, and cutting back on smoking and drinking, can have a significant impact on reducing cancer risk. Please do remember lifestyle changes play a crucial role in cancer prevention.
COMING TOGETHER AS A COMMUNITY:
This day isn’t just about individual awareness; it’s about community support. Many organisations host events, walks, and seminars to bring people together. It’s an opportunity to meet others who understand what you or your loved ones might be going through or might have been gone through. Sharing experiences can be healing, empowering and incredibly uplifting. Also, every able and healthy body should donate blood in blood bank of Cancer Hospitals. People fighting with Cancer are in constant need of blood.
LET’S USE TECHNOLOGY: USE YOUR VOICE
In our tech-driven world, we have amazing resources at our fingertips. With social media and online platforms, we have an incredible opportunity to raise awareness. Let’s share information, stories, and support one another. A simple post can help educate someone or encourage them to seek help.
FINAL THOUGHTS: WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER
National Cancer Awareness Day is more than a date on the calendar; it’s a reminder that we’re all in this together. Whether you’re a survivor, a caregiver, or someone who simply wants to learn more, your voice matters. Let’s support one another, share our stories, and work towards a future where cancer isn’t such a scary word.
So, on November 7, take a moment to reflect, educate yourself, and reach out to someone you know. Together, we can make a real difference in the fight against cancer. Let’s stand united, raise awareness, and support one another—because every little bit helps! Trust me, it does …… every compassionate hand, every voice of support, every gentle touch of love, every pouch of your donated blood can make a huge difference.
Sanchita Roychowdhury
Head – P.R & Digitisation
GOPSAI AVINANDAN SANGHA
Editor
PAHAR PUJO A UNIQUE EXPRESSION OF NATURE WORSHIP AND INDIGENIOUS ...
জঙ্গলমহল - বাঁকুড়া, পুরুলিয়া, ঝাড়গ্রাম ও পশ্চিম মেদিনীপুরের বিস্তীর্ণ অঞ্চল - প্রাচীনকাল থেকেই এক অনন্য সংস্কৃতি, লোকবিশ্বাস ও প্রকৃতি -পূজার পীঠস্থান। এখানকার অজস্র পাহাড়, জঙ্গল, নদী আর লাল মাটির বুক জুড়ে গড়ে উঠেছে হাজারো বছরের আদিবাসী আচার-অনুষ্ঠান। তারই একটি গভীর অথচ আজ প্রায় বিস্মৃত প্রথা হলো পাহাড় পূজা। পাহাড় পূজা এক আচার, যা কোনও ধর্মগ্রন্থে লেখা নেই, তবু শতাব্দীর পর শতাব্দী ধরে এখানকার মানুষ মন প্রাণ ঢেলে পালন করে আসছে।
World Music Day Celebrating Indias Enduring Sonic Heritage and Its ...
World Music Day, celebrated annually on June 21st, isn't just about listening to tunes, it's a magnificent opportunity to immerse ourselves in the soul-stirring depths of India's profound sonic heritage. This isn't just a day for melodies, it's a global stage to truly appreciate a legacy that has captivated hearts and minds for centuries. From the ancient, resonant echoes of Vedic chants that predate recorded history, to the intricate, emotive landscapes of classical ragas like Hindustani and Carnatic, India's musical journey is a testament to its rich cultural revolution. Imagine the centuries of devotion and discipline poured into perfecting each note, each nuanced phrase, designed not just to entertain but to evoke specific emotions and connect with the divine. The very fabric of Indian classical music has been woven by titans whose names resonate through time. Think of the sitar maestro Pandit Ravi Shankar, who brought Indian classical music to the global stage through his iconic collaborations with Western artists like George Harrison. Or the captivating voice of Bharat Ratna M.S. Subbulakshmi, whose devotion to Carnatic music touched millions. In Hindustani classical, the powerful and soulful renditions of Pandit Bhimsen Joshi (Khayal) and the unparalleled mastery of the shehnai by Ustad Bismillah Khan continue to inspire awe. And who can forget the rhythmic genius of tabla virtuoso Ustad Zakir Hussain, who has pushed the boundaries of percussion across genres. Beyond the classical and folk traditions, towering figures have shaped the modern musical landscape. Rabindranath Tagore, India's first Nobel laureate and a true polymath, made an unparalleled contribution through Rabindra Sangeet. He composed over 2,000 songs, blending elements of Hindustani classical, folk melodies, and Western influences, often setting them to his own poetry. Rabindranath Tagore's music is not merely an accompaniment to his words, it's an integral part of his philosophy, expressing a vast range of human emotions, spiritual insights, and love for nature and country. His compositions are a distinct and beloved genre, deeply ingrained in the cultural psyche of Bengal and beyond. But India's musical story isn't confined to grand concert halls. It thrives in the vibrant rhythms of its diverse folk music, echoing across sun-drenched fields, bustling village squares, and festive celebrations. Each region, each community, boasts its own unique musical dialect – from the spirited bhangra of Punjab to the soulful baul songs of Bengal, and the captivating Lavani of Maharashtra. These are the sounds of daily life, of stories passed down through generations, of shared joy and collective spirit. Legendary folk artists like Bhupen Hazarika from Assam, whose poignant songs spoke of humanity and social justice, or the mesmerizing voices of the Nooran Sisters in Sufi music, have ensured these traditions continue to flourish. India's sonic landscape is constantly evolving, embracing innovative fusions of contemporary genres. Modern Indian artists, championed by trailblazers like the Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman, are fearlessly blending traditional instruments and melodies with Western influences, creating sounds that are both rooted in heritage and refreshingly new. The golden voices of playback singers like Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar and Mohammed Rafi have defined generations of Bollywood music. In current scenario Kumar Sanu, Alka Yagnik, Sonu Nigam, Shreya Ghosal, Arijit Singh and so many singers showcasing the versatility and emotional depth of Indian vocal artistry. On this World Music Day, let's not just passively listen, but actively recognize and appreciate the intricate melodies, complex rhythmic structures, and the undeniable spiritual depth embedded within Indian music. It's a reminder of its enduring influence, not just on India's own vibrant culture, but on the wider world, inspiring musicians and enchanting audiences across continents.
Tonumoy Bhattacharya