Unique exhibition, Yakshagana show on cancer awareness

Ahead of World Cancer Day, KMC Hospital, Mangaluru, with an aim to motivate and create awareness on cancer among people, will organise an exhibition at Kadri Park on February 3.

This is a first-of-its-kind initiative and is in partnership with the Department of Haematology and Oncology, KMC Hospital, along with Lions Club Kadri Hills, Mangaluru; Indian Medical Association, Mangaluru; and Association of Medical Consultants, Mangaluru.

Deputy Commissioner Sasikanth Senthil will inaugurate the exhibition at 9.30 am, said Dr Prashanth, consultant haematologist.

“Awareness is the key when it comes to cancer as there are lots of myths associated with the deadly disease. In fact, fear is the first thing that comes to our minds with cancer. Early detection and treatment are the keys, besides making simple lifestyle changes,” said Dr Prashanth.

There will be nearly 100 pictorial posters, explaining the basic information regarding cancer.

The programme will conclude with a Yakshagana performance on ‘Arbudasura Garvabhanga’ (Defeat of Demon Cancer).

The play is especially written and enacted by eminent doctors of Mangaluru who are also members of the Indian Medical Association.

The prasanga (story) is written by Sathyamurthy Aithal, a senior surgeon and amateur Yakshagana artiste, and Dr Annayya Kulal. The songs have been written by Nithyananda Karantha Polali.

Of the 22 characters, a majority of them will be performed by doctors, along with amateur Yakshagana artistes.