NOHP Puducherry - Engaging Communities Through Musical Debate - Series 5: A Unique Approach to Oral Health Awareness

On World Oral Health Day, we took an innovative approach to public health education by organizing musical debates (Pattimandram) across various areas of Puducherry. Rooted in Tamil cultural traditions, Musical Pattimandram blends intellectual discourse with rhythmic storytelling, making complex health messages both engaging and memorable.

This dynamic art form, known for its witty exchanges, poetic verses, and musical interludes, was the perfect medium to discuss key oral health topics, such as the impact of sugary diets, the dangers of tobacco, and the importance of regular dental check-ups. The structured yet entertaining debates encouraged community participation, sparking discussions that extended beyond the performance.

By presenting oral health as a topic of friendly yet insightful debate, this initiative helped dispel myths, reinforce good practices, and encourage preventive care—all in a way that resonated deeply with the local audience.

Through this culturally rich and interactive approach, we successfully transformed oral health awareness into a shared community dialogue, ensuring that the message reached every corner of Puducherry. Because when health education is engaging, it leads to lasting change. the second program in this series happened at Veerampatinam a fishing village in Puducherry on 24th March 2025 and nearly 100 people took part in this event.