Health institution’s TEDx event brings new perspective on innovation, social impact

Renowned classical dancer and choreographer Mallika Sarabhai emphasized the importance of health communication, particularly addressing malnutrition, sexual and mental health, and empowering communities. Sarabhai spoke at a TEDx event organized by the Indian Institute of Health Management Research (IIHMR) University in Jaipur, uniting activists and innovators.

The fourth edition of TEDx, themed "Ignite the unseen," brought a fresh perspective on health, innovation, entrepreneurship, social impact, culture, and the arts. Activists focused on child rights, disability, and public health gathered for the occasion. Sarabhai highlighted the need to tackle myths and societal taboos surrounding mental health, sexuality, malnutrition, and violence through effective health communication.

She stated, "Talking about the unseen, about shame, and about malnutrition and violence is part of health communication." By engaging with communities and exploring their beliefs and narratives, they sought to break down the fear and shame associated with discussing such topics. Sarabhai, a Padma Bhushan recipient and the director of Darpana Academy, underscored the potential of health communication to resolve various health issues.

The TEDx event aimed to challenge perspectives and inspire meaningful changes within the healthcare sector. Speakers from diverse fields, including public health, child rights, performing arts, assistive technology, music, entrepreneurship, and wildlife conservation, shed light on often overlooked concepts that could shape society.

Notable attendees included 2006 International Children’s Peace Prize laureate Om Prakash Gurjar, musicologist Gauri Yadwadkar, disability rights advocate Prateek Madhav, and wildlife conservationist R. Udayan Lahiry.