Inter-Collegiate AIDS Gaana Song Dance Competition Creates HIV/AIDS Awareness among Youth

Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO), in collaboration with the Red Ribbon Club (RRC), C. Kandaswami Naidu College for Men, C. Kandaswami Naidu College Alumni Association (CKNCAA), and with the support of The Mercury Phoenix Trust, UK, organised the Inter-Collegiate AIDS Gaana Song Dance Competition on 23rd December 2025 at C. Kandaswami Naidu College for Men, Anna Nagar East, Chennai.

The programme aimed to promote HIV/AIDS awareness, prevention, and stigma reduction among college students through the creative medium of Gaana music and dance. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students representing various colleges across Chennai, effectively blending social messaging with cultural expression.

The event was inaugurated by Mr. PMJF M. Selvakkumar, Founder, Lions Club of Chennai Golden Friends, and Dr. V. M. Muthuramalinga Andavar, Principal, C. Kandaswami Naidu College for Men, in the presence of the office bearers of CKNCAA. The Prize Distribution Ceremony was graced by Thiru. M. K. Mohan, Hon’ble Member of Legislative Assembly, Anna Nagar Constituency; Tmt. R. Seethalakshmi, I.A.S., Project Director, Tamil Nadu State AIDS Control Society; Mr. GVN Kumar, Chairperson, GVN Homes Pvt. Ltd.; and Dr. Dilip Mathai, Director of Medical Education, Naruvii Hospitals, Vellore, and Past President of the AIDS Society of India. 

Distributing the First Prize, Thiru. M. K. Mohan, Hon’ble Member of Legislative Assembly, Anna Nagar Constituency, appreciated the students for using Gaana song and dance as powerful tools to communicate critical messages on HIV/AIDS awareness. Addressing the gathering, he said that organising such inter-collegiate competitions is a timely and meaningful initiative, as students are the future of the nation and play a crucial role in spreading awareness, dispelling myths, and eliminating stigma related to HIV/AIDS.

The Hon’ble MLA reiterated that HIV/AIDS is preventable and manageable, provided there is correct scientific knowledge, responsible behaviour, early testing, adherence to treatment, and zero discrimination towards people living with HIV. He urged students to act as peer educators and ambassadors of change, using their creativity and influence to promote awareness within their campuses and communities.

Appreciating the efforts of Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO), he commended its Founder Mr. A. J. Hariharan and the organising team for their sustained work in youth engagement and public health awareness. He noted that such initiatives complement government efforts and strengthen community-based HIV prevention strategies. Concluding his address, he remarked that an informed and responsible student today ensures a safer and healthier India tomorrow. 

On the occasion, Tmt. R. Seethalakshmi, I.A.S., Project Director, Tamil Nadu State AIDS Control Society, formally released the HIV/AIDS Awareness Poster, marking the launch of the awareness campaign. She emphasised the importance of early awareness, prevention, and stigma-free approaches, and highlighted the role of youth participation in strengthening HIV prevention efforts.

Mr. PMJF M. Selvakkumar shared that awareness must begin with young people, as they are the future of society. He noted that creative platforms like Gaana songs and dance make learning meaningful and impactful and reiterated the important role played by NGOs in prevention, care, and support.

Dr. V. M. Muthuramalinga Andavar stated that awareness, early prevention, and stigma reduction are key pillars in HIV control. He added that engaging students through creative expressions helps spread correct information and build empathy.

Mr. E. Sundarapandian, President, CKNCAA, highlighted the importance of institutional and community partnerships in addressing public health challenges and appreciated the active involvement of students.

Mr. GVN Kumar said that educational institutions must provide students with opportunities to engage with social issues and use their talents responsibly to contribute positively to society.

Mr. A. J. Hariharan, Secretary, Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO), stated that public health awareness requires collective participation from institutions, organisations, and young people. He shared that ICWO works in the areas of HIV/AIDS awareness, community health, counselling support, and youth engagement, and that student-centric initiatives help instil long-term social responsibility beyond academics.

The performances were evaluated by a panel of HIV/AIDS experts and judges, who appreciated the creativity and clarity with which students conveyed messages on awareness, prevention, inclusion, and stigma reduction.

The trophies were distributed by the judges and the IAS officer, recognising the outstanding performances.

Prize Winners

First Prize        : Soka Ikeda College of Arts and Science

Second Prize   : Dr. Ambedkar Government Arts College

Third Prize      : Chevalier T. Thomas Elizabeth College for Women (Arts and Science College) – CTTE

Students from Thiruthangal Nadar College of Arts and Science, Anna Adarsh College for Women, S.A. College of Arts and Science, Saveetha College of Nursing, and C. Kandaswami Naidu College for Men, all participating colleges received a Trophy of Appreciation of their active participation and contribution towards spreading HIV/AIDS Awareness.