Government creates awareness about rape through street theatre

A screech lasting for five minutes jolted thousands of viewers on a freezing Friday evening in Delhi's Central Park.

On the fourth anniversary of the Nirbhaya incident, the Delhi government organised a solo act by renowned theatre actor Shilpi Marwah which received a big round of applause. A solo act titled A Women Alone and a street play Dastak was performed by Asmita theatre group. Directed by Arvind Gaur and performed by Shilpi Marwah, the solo act was a success.

Thousands of people under the open programme Nirbhaya Sada: The Fight Continues witnessed back-to-back satirical plays that questioned a woman's status in society.

Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, who was the chief guest of the event said, "People often ask me what has really changed after the horrendous Nirbhaya incident. Law alone cannot change the fear that has gripped citizens. Women's safety is a big concern. It needs to be addressed. "

"Gender bias still prevails. Our education system deliberately tries to hinder progress. A subject like Mathematics has numerous examples where in the framing of mathematical problems we see Ram going to work and Sita working at home. Even fairy tales indulge in body shaming," added Sisodia.

Delhi's Water Minister Kapil Mishra, who was present at the event, urged citizens to ensure a just society. The programme ended with a street play, Dastak, by artists of Asmita theatre group.