I knew facts about HIV disease. But I never knew the deep social, economical and cultural aspects of AIDS in Sri Lanka, until I watched 'Swara' a movie with Nita Fernando in lead role. I had the rare opportunity to watch the movie before it hits the screen (Unfortunately the film is yet to be released). She asked for my critique, instead I thanked her for her sincere effort to put a humane Sri Lankan touch in to a much debated issue plaguing us. Coming back from the movie, I felt ashamed of my lack of understanding on Sri Lankan context of AIDS. Then I studied on it.
Do you know some poor women in this country, who work as sex workers to earn a living (labeled/tabooed as 'prostitutes') get raped 20 times or more in one night?
Can you imagine the human tragedy?
Many praise Thailand for its' 'professional' sex trade (tourism). Sri Lanka is also testing viability to follow those steps.
And I am alarmed to see the global campaign for AIDS is spearheaded by a contraceptive producer. What does this mean? Does it mean ' Have sex as much as you want, but remember to purchase and wear a condom? '
Now you may argue, then what authority Reebok has to sponsor Cricket. Yes, but you see, Cricket is not a disease which decides very stability of human race. AIDS is very dangerous, spreading and lurking around us in broad day light.
Why no PR campaign in the world, requests for curb in sex trade? Why there is no discussion on how to control harmful rage of lust at individual level? Do we have enough understanding of the issue?
These are just few thoughts and questions in my mind. I am no way an authority on AIDS, but a humble being living in a complex combo of a society where sex is celebrated as a 'thing' to consume/purchase just as we purchase tooth paste from a grocery store.
Pic Credit : extracted from Facebook
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