Nukkat Natak

Street Drama in association with food safety department Palakkad

Report on the Street Play "Uchadanam"Date: February 26, 2025Venue: Kottamaidanam, PalakkadOrganized by: Department of Food Technology, MES Kalladi College, MannarkkadIn Association With: Food Safety Department, PalakkadEvent: Eat Right Challenge Phase 4 and Nukkad NatakIntroductionOn February 26, 2025, the Department of Food Technology at MES Kalladi College, Mannarkkad, conducted a street play titled "Uchadanam" in collaboration with the Food Safety Department of Palakkad. This initiative was part of the Eat Right Challenge Phase 4, aimed at promoting food safety and healthy eating practices within the community. The event took place at Kottamaidanam, Palakkad, and involved a group of 17 enthusiastic students along with one faculty member.ObjectivesThe primary objectives of the street play "Uchadanam" were to:Raise awareness about food safety and hygiene.Educate the public on the importance of healthy eating habits.Engage the community in discussions about food-related issues.Encourage positive behavioral changes regarding food consumption and safety practices.Programme OverviewThe street play was designed to be both informative and entertaining, utilizing the art of Nukkad Natak (street theater) to convey important messages. The performance included the following elements:Script and Themes: The script was carefully crafted to address various aspects of food safety, including proper food handling, the significance of hygiene, and the benefits of consuming nutritious foods. The themes were relatable and aimed at engaging the audience effectively.Performance: The group of 17 students showcased their acting skills, delivering a captivating performance that drew the attention of passersby. The play was interactive, encouraging audience participation and feedback, which enhanced the overall impact of the message.Community Engagement: The performance attracted a diverse audience, including local residents, students, and families. After the play, the students engaged with the audience, answering questions and discussing the key messages conveyed in the performance.Faculty InvolvementThe faculty member accompanying the group played a crucial role in guiding the students throughout the preparation and execution of the street play. Their support ensured that the performance was well-organized and aligned with the objectives of the Eat Right Challenge.Impact and FeedbackThe street play "Uchadanam" received positive feedback from the audience, who appreciated the creative approach to addressing important food safety issues. Many attendees expressed their gratitude for the informative content and the engaging manner in which it was presented. The event successfully sparked conversations about food safety and healthy eating practices within the community.ConclusionThe street play "Uchadanam" was a significant success, effectively raising awareness about food safety and promoting healthy eating habits among the local population. The collaboration between the Department of Food Technology and the Food Safety Department of Palakkad exemplified the importance of community engagement in public health initiatives. The Department of Food Technology looks forward to organizing more such events in the future to continue advocating for food safety and nutrition.