For the first time in Bengaluru, a group of doctors will come together to spread tobacco awareness. And this is not through some ordinary, boring drive. Making posters, counseling sessions, live music and skits are just some of the activities planned for the day. Says Dr Vishal Rao, oncologist and the mastermind behind this, "This initiative started because 50 per cent of cancer is related to tobacco. It is depressing to see so many youngsters taking to smoking. We are always treating the effect not the cause."

With biggies like Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Indian Medical Association, Indian Dental Association, BBMP, Institute of Public Health and various other national and international organisations working on tobacco control, the attempt is bound to be a success. Says another young doctor Shrinidhi N of Rajarajeshwari Hospital, "The basic aim is to get people to love their own health. There are cultural events organised and awareness is sure to spread through this initiative. I will be involved in the poster session which is an inter–collegiate event."

Dr Syed W, intern, says he is exposed to tobacco patients everyday. "We are young adults and doctors at the same time. We can see the effects of tobacco on the youth. This movement is more streamlined so we can send out a strong message."

Syed reveals that they have sent out invites to over 100 colleges and the response has been fantastic. "Plays, interactive skits, collages and art are just some of the preparations we have made." While the doctor community of Bengaluru is coming together in its own little way, they have even arranged for a rock band from St John’s Hospital.

This five–piece band where four are non–smokers, is almost an antithesis of a rock ‘n’ roll band! Says Vikram Parthan, healthcare professional and member of Xtra Cover band, "This is a very good platform where people from all over the city will converge. We are playing music to have fun. Since we are catering to the audience on that day, we will be playing popular covers and promoting anti–tobacco messages at the same time."

Dr Vishal adds, "As part of the preventive, we are educating youngsters and the existing ‘customer’ in our own way. It’s high time we doctors unite as a family" Freedom from Tobacco – Bengaluru Unites, is being held at Freedom Park on May 31 from 10 am to 8 pm.The event is a part of the ongoing initiative – Tobacco Free Bengaluru. On World No Tobacco Day, this unique initiative needs you!