Indian Folk Art Corridor, founded by Vidisha Pandey, successfully organised its annual PINK SPARK Breast Cancer Awareness Programme at GEMS Legacy School, Dubai. The event brought together healthcare professionals, artists, cancer survivors, students, distinguished guests, and community members to promote breast cancer awareness, celebrate courage, and spread a message of hope and solidarity.
The programme began with the national anthems of India and the UAE, symbolising unity and mutual respect. With the wholehearted support of Principal Ms. Asha Alexander, Ms. Bhavna, teachers, staff, and student volunteers, the event created a meaningful platform for awareness, creativity, and community engagement.
Panel Discussion on Breast Cancer Awareness and Wellbeing
One of the key highlights was an informative panel discussion featuring Dr. Vrishali Rohankar, nutritionist Saumya Mishra, yoga expert Nikita Chauhan, and cancer survivor and warrior Shabnam Masood. Moderated by Vidisha Pandey, the discussion addressed important aspects of breast cancer awareness, nutrition, physical and emotional wellbeing, and the importance of supporting individuals affected by cancer.
The conversation encouraged students to understand the importance of awareness, compassion, and a supportive community.
Celebrating Indian Folk Art Through Creativity
Art played a central role in the PINK SPARK celebration. Talented Indian artists Mridu Srivastava, Mankush Sethi Srivastava, Radha Bhatia, Poonam Chaturvedi, Suman Mehta, Shalu Isaac, and young artist Shresth Sujith Menon showcased their creativity through live artwork on umbrellas.
Their vibrant creations celebrated the richness of Indian folk and tribal art while conveying powerful messages of strength, positivity, and hope. The umbrella art walk was one of the most appreciated highlights of the programme.
Honouring Cancer Warriors and Their Courage
A particularly touching moment was the felicitation of cancer warriors, who were honoured with special sashes in recognition of their courage, resilience, and strength. Their personal experiences reminded everyone that every journey is unique and that empathy, encouragement, and support can make a meaningful difference.
Participants also contributed messages of hope and encouragement on a special umbrella, creating a collective expression of solidarity with those affected by cancer.
Distinguished Guests and Special Appreciation
The programme was graced by distinguished guests, including Ms. Kalpana Iyer, Ms. Kusum Dutta, Sister Jyotika from Raja Yoga Centre, Mr. Peter Gressman, and Ms. Kavita Iyer.
Indian Folk Art Corridor also presented GEMS Legacy School with a beautiful Indian folk art painting, celebrating India’s rich artistic heritage. Principal Ms. Asha Alexander warmly received the artwork.
Special appreciation was extended to the panelists, artists, guests, and supporters for their valuable contributions. Student volunteers were also appreciated for their enthusiastic participation and received pink ribbon bows as keepsakes to carry the message of awareness forward.
Meditation, Felicitations and Gratitude
The programme concluded with a peaceful meditation session led by Sister Jyotika from Raja Yoga Centre. The calming experience provided a meaningful opportunity for reflection, relaxation, and inner peace.
The event was beautifully hosted by Ms. Kavita Sriram, whose warm and engaging presence kept the audience connected throughout the programme.
A heartfelt thank you was extended to Ms. Ankita Singhani and Ms. Shruti for generously sponsoring beautiful dreamcatchers as gifts for the cancer warriors and special guests. Their thoughtful gesture added a special touch to the occasion.
Together for Awareness, Together for Hope
PINK SPARK was more than a breast cancer awareness programme. It was a celebration of courage, creativity, compassion, and community spirit. By bringing together healthcare professionals, cancer warriors, artists, educators, and students, the initiative demonstrated how art and collective action can support meaningful social causes.
Indian Folk Art Corridor extends its sincere gratitude to GEMS Legacy School, Principal Ms. Asha Alexander, all participating artists, panelists, guests, volunteers, sponsors, and everyone who contributed to making the programme a success.
Together, let us continue spreading awareness, celebrating strength, and standing beside every cancer warrior with kindness, courage, and hope.
Vidisha Pandey
Cultural Entrepreneur | Founder, Indian Folk Art Corridor