A National Symposium on Mental Wellness through Performing Arts
Concept Note
In recent times the COVID – 19 pandemic has unleashed unprecedented challenges on humanity at large. It has made us vulnerable and has had far reaching repercussions on various aspects of our lives – be it social, economic or health. As a society we are now faced with tremendous uncertainty and as we grapple with various problems we realise that young children, adolescents and the youth are perhaps most adversely affected. Recent studies have revealed that the pandemic has caused stress leading to increased levels of anxiety and depression among students of all age groups. COVID-19 has sparked and amplified many mental health problems and has adversely impacted the mental well being of the youth. In fact a recent survey has shown that almost one in every eight people in the world suffers from a mental disorder. While mental health needs have risen, mental health services have been severely disrupted. As educators we need to find ways to mitigate the severity of mental health issues and also address these challenges through innovative measures.
We, at Dhwani, realise the relevance and importance of performing arts in ensuring the mental well being of youth. We believe is not only critical to create an awareness about mental health issues and its increasing numbers in society but also to make ourselves conscious of our responsibility towards children and youth. Further, as children are often exposed to stress of various kinds, they need to find an outlet that will help and encourage them to let go and express themselves. Performing Arts can be a great stimulant with regard to self-expression and can also facilitate emotional release. In fact Performing Arts has been scientifically proven to help children deal with depression and overcome anxiety. It can also help to boost confidence and make children more resilient.
Objective
The belief that engagement in the performing arts can aid mental health recovery is an idea that needs to penetrate convincingly into the consciousness of our society. It is in this background that Dhwani proposes to organise a two – day symposium ‘Vivridh’ which aims to create a positive, collaborative, and sustainable platform for all like-minded stakeholders to come together in creating mental wellness through performing arts. Vivridh will ensure a confluence of mental health experts, renowned educators, students and parents to deliberate on the theme.
The event will comprise a panel discussions, engagement sessions and an open discussion forum.
Dates:14th & 15th of December 2022
Timings: 11 am & 2 pm on 14th December & 6:30 pm onwards on 15th December
Venue: Triveni Kala Sangam, New Delhi
Highlights of the event
• The event will be conducted in offline mode and will bring together eminent speakers and resource persons.
• The event will also be covered through live streaming with the aim to reach out to schools, colleges, individuals and other stakeholders from across India and even abroad.
• Participants from various organisations will participate in the symposium thus leading to an enriching and comprehensive discussion on the theme. Representatives from organisations such as WHO, UNICEF and Ministry of Mental Health & Family Welfare have expressed their intent to participate in the seminar. Participants will also include professionals such as doctors, neurologists, therapists, psychiatrists, educators, scholars, counsellors, lawyers, representatives from various Ministries – Education, Culture, expats, ambassadors, art institutes, corporates, school / college principals, students, NGOs, Media Houses (Print & Electronic)
About Dhwani
Dhwani, a leading arts organisation, has been in existence since 1984. The NGO receives grants from the Department of Culture, Govt. Of India and is empanelled with Indian Council for Cultural Relations under ‘outstanding category’. The members of Dhwani have performed at a number of national and international festivals and collaborated with outstanding musicians and writers. Some of the unique productions have been ‘Arpan’, based on the works of Dr. Harivansh Rai Bachchan, sharing the stage with the legend Shri Amitabh Bachchan, ‘Rare Rhythms’ in collaboration with Sivamani, Selva Ganesh and Taufiq Qureshi. A Hindi version of Pinocchio, penned by Gulzar with music by Zakir Hussain.‘Rasaarchana’ with music by Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and a Sufi work ‘Raha’ with Parvathy Baul.
In case of any queries related to the event, please contact Ms Vasundhara Sharma 8595160330
