From "Girls Should Not Perform in Public" to Community Pride: How Young Girls Challenged Child Marriage Through Street Drama

[Salu Das]

The girls aged 11–15 from Bhaluhi village achieved something that once seemed almost impossible. These girls were attending computer classes through another project implemented by SHAKHI. During a Group SALT session, we noticed their confidence, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn. Inspired by the discussion, the girls shared that they wanted to perform a street drama to raise awareness about child marriage in their community.

However, turning this idea into reality was not easy. When they started preparing for the street drama, they faced unexpected challenges. The parents of some girls refused to let their daughters participate in the drama. They believed that it was not appropriate for girls to perform in front of other people, saying, "Girls should not act in public." Many parents were also worried that photos and videos of the performance would be shared on Facebook and other social media platforms. They felt that girls should not go outside the home to take part in such activities. Some parents even stopped sending their daughters to the computer classes because they feared the girls would to perform the drama.

Despite these restrictions, the girls did not give up. They patiently spoke with their parents and explained why the drama was important to them. For nearly three months, they continued practicing whenever they could. However, because many girls were not allowed to attend regularly, it was difficult to rehearse as a full group.

Seeing their determination, I, along with our facilitators, visited the families several times. We listened carefully to the parent’s concerns, explained the purpose of the awareness drama, and encouraged them to support their daughters. Slowly, the parents began to understand how committed and passionate the girls were.

And finally, after almost three months, the parents agreed to give permission to their daughters for the drama. The girls were able to resume rehearsals together and prepare for the child marriage awareness drama they had dreamed of performing. 

On 1 July 2026, 15 young girls performed a powerful street drama on the harmful effects of child marriage in front of around 150 community members. The performance showed how child marriage affects girl’s education, health, future opportunities, and overall well-being. The drama deeply touched the audience. Many women became emotional and had tears in their eyes while watching the drama. Several men were also moved by the performance. The parents who had once refused to let their daughters perform watched with pride as the girls confidently delivered such an important message to the community. After the drama, some men and women also shared powerful reflection like: 

A woman shared:

"I used to think that I should marry my daughter at an early age. However, after watching today's program, I learned about the harmful consequences of child marriage. From now on, I will ensure that my daughter receives a good education, becomes capable and independent, and gets married only after reaching the legal age."

Another woman said:

"Earlier, I believed that it was better to arrange my daughter's marriage at a young age. But after watching today's performance, I realized that child marriage harms a girl's future, interrupts her education, and negatively affects her health. Now, I will support my daughter in continuing her education and becoming self-reliant."

A journalist who attended the program expressed his views, saying:

"This is not merely a drama or a performance. These girls are sharing the real pain, struggles, and experiences they have faced in their lives. Therefore, it should not be viewed simply as a drama but as a powerful reflection of reality and an important message for society."

The drama also sparked discussion among community members. Many men and women talked about the importance of girl’s education, open communication between parents and daughters, and the need to prevent issues such as child marriage, elopement, and suicide. They also discussed the shared responsibility of parents, schools, and the community in creating a safe and supportive environment for adolescent girls.

Through this street drama, the young girls gained confidence in public speaking, teamwork, and engaging with the community. The girls realized that they can play an active role in addressing social issues in their community.

This experience also showed us that community-led dramas based on real-life issues can touch people's hearts and encourage meaningful discussions. By creating a space for reflection and dialogue, they can challenge harmful social norms, change attitudes, and inspire families and community members to take positive action. If such awareness activities continue, they have the potential to bring lasting positive change and help create a safer and more supportive environment for girls.