This year’s annual Holi Musical Festival took on a deeper purpose, using its vibrant platform to raise awareness about cancer and support outreach initiatives targeting rural communities across Uganda.
Hosted by the East Indian Cultural Association (EICA) at Kampala Parents School, the event blended music, culture, and social impact, drawing attention to a growing public health concern.
Cancer cases in Uganda continue to rise, with many detected at advanced stages due to limited awareness and delayed screening. Health advocates have consistently stressed the need for community-based education to address this challenge.
Through its outreach programmes, EICA has been supporting awareness campaigns that extend into rural areas, equipping families with knowledge about early detection, routine medical check-ups, and timely treatment.
By linking the Holi celebrations to this cause, the association—working alongside Kansai Plascon and other partners, leveraged the power of cultural gatherings to spotlight an issue affecting thousands of Ugandan households.
The festival itself was a vivid display of colour and tradition, with guests arriving in vibrant attire that reflected the spirit of Holi. Performances by children’s cultural dance groups, marked by energetic choreography and bright costumes, set the tone for the evening.
A standout moment came with a performance by celebrated Bollywood playback singer Shraddha Pandit. Welcomed by enthusiastic cheers, she delivered a lively set of Bollywood classics and contemporary hits, energising the crowd as many joined in singing and dancing.
Kansai Plascon, a key sponsor, reaffirmed its longstanding support for cultural initiatives and community engagement within Uganda’s Indian diaspora. The company’s managing director, Santosh Gumte, attended the event and was honoured by EICA for both his and the company’s contribution to community development.
In his remarks, Gumte emphasised the importance of supporting initiatives that go beyond celebration to address pressing social issues. He noted that Kansai Plascon’s involvement reflects its broader commitment to corporate social responsibility, particularly in advancing awareness around critical health challenges such as cancer.