Putting HIV in the spotlight

THE HIV epidemic is alive and thriving, though it has moved to the background at discussion fora these days.

What better way to take the message about the problem to the average citizen, than through a humorous skit, that too a spoof on two popular screen comedians.

The city's merry makers who spend an evening out at the ongoing Trade Fair at Island Grounds get a chance to see a ``Senthil- Koundamani'' sequence with a difference - on stage.

The AIDS cell of the Chennai Corporation has teamed up with PROFAD - an advertising agency for the 20 minute drama.

The play highlights the risk of the dreadful infection.

Mr. Senthil, a car driver by profession, plays the role of Koundamani and Mr. Kalyanasundaram, dubbing artist, is Senthil.

The drama begins with Senthil asking Koundamani to get his sister married to him.

After initial reluctance Koundamani agrees.

But he stipulates a condition that Senthil undergo a test for AIDS.

The non-stop comedy ends with both the artists telling the spectators not to engage in risky behaviour and safeguard themselves against HIV/AIDS.

The effort is largely successful, going by the reaction of the audience.

The script has been written by Mr. Suresh who runs a drama company, the `Kaivalyam Troupe'.

The idea for the drama next to the stall put by the civic body at the Fair, proves a big crowd puller.

The Corporation has agreed to grant the agency permission for one month, up to February 15.

It will also pay the agency Rs. 44,000 per month for the play from funds allotted to the AIDS cell.

Corporation officials say their effort to create an awareness has been made easy through the dramatisation.

For a large number of visitors not only from the city but also from the suburbs come to the fair.

Though the artists are not professionals, they put in a good effort, and the genre of the fumbling comedian duo enhances the impact.

(S. Natarajan)

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Section  : Entertainment
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