The Pad Parade, one of the annual highlight events of the Mina Foundation, was held on Sunday, May 28, 2023, on Menstrual Hygiene Day. The event at Kah and Govandi attracted about 183 people, including women, men and children of various ages. Groups who put up slogans and posters in Hindi and English said, “Manshik Chakra Se Na Raho Anjaan, Karostri Shakti Pa Abhiman” and “Rather than ignore your menstrual cycle, be proud to be a woman.” It included things like “Let’s make menstruation.” table talk”. All in attendance demanded change and raised their singular and resounding voices of protest to bring about change.

This year, we received support from Zixa, which released a new product to reduce menstrual pain, “Zixa Strong- Feminine Cramp Relief Roll On.” Zixa also created a balloon popping game to debunk common myths about periods, such as “periods don’t hurt” and “you should be ashamed of your body and your period.” We were also supported by Mr. Chaya Pawar of the Nirbhaya Patak Team, Mr. Patil, Mr. Sheela Gavkal, Community Volunteer and Mr. Abhimanyu, Head of Sai Baba Temple. They have greatly contributed to the success of this event.

Through this parade, we Mina encourage menstruation to be a matter of pride, not shame. The parade aims to challenge taboos, demand access to menstrual products, promote menstrual health education and empower women in urban slums to accept their bodies. It is held annually to break the myths and normalize the conversation. Interactive and fun.

Meanwhile, another event took place in the middle of an enclosed community in one of the slums of Jawaharnagar, Karl East district. Women and girls of all ages participated in this event, and enjoyed learning about the mechanism of menstruation and maintaining hygiene during menstruation through fun activities at each stall. Menstrual health and hygiene kiosks were set up for beneficiaries. These included menstrual hygiene, hand hygiene, nutrition, myth-busting games, and selfie stations. These stations provided information on the biology of menstruation, good hygiene practices, where to dispose of sanitary products, and activities to break down misconceptions. The event served as a great mechanism to raise awareness about menstruation and personal hygiene among the girls’ and women’s communities. Both events helped raise awareness, gain new perspectives and empower slum women.