The rhythmic beats of the Parai resonated through Chennai International Airport on May 29th, 2026, Friday, drawing the sharp attention of travellers, visitors, and airport staff alike. Organised by the Multiple Sclerosis Society of India (MSSI) Chennai Chapter, the event utilised creative performances to connect with the public and promote greater awareness of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) as part of its World MS Day observance.
Engaging Performances at the Transit Hub
Organised with the support and approval of the Airports Authority of India (AAI), Chennai, the initiative featured an engaging awareness skit presented by the Alternative Media Centre at the Kamaraj Domestic Terminal. To maximise reach, performances were staged across two high-traffic zones:
- 3:00 PM: Domestic Arrival Lounge
- 4:00 PM: Domestic Departure Area
Through compelling storytelling and expressive acting, the skit brought the hidden realities of living with MS to the forefront. The performance specifically emphasised the critical need for early diagnosis, timely treatment, empathy, and robust community support for Persons with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS).
A major attraction of the event was the energetic use of the Parai, a traditional Tamil percussion instrument. The vibrant skit performance served as an incredibly effective medium to break through the noise of a busy transit hub, encouraging hurried travellers to pause, watch, and learn.
Alongside the performances, members of the MSSI Chennai Chapter actively interacted with the crowd, distributing informative bilingual leaflets in English and Tamil, and answering questions from the public.
A Symbol of Global Solidarity
To mark World MS Day, the Chennai Airport terminal building was illuminated in Orange on 30th May 2026. Continuing a proud annual tradition, the illumination symbolised solidarity with the global MS community and reinforced a message of hope, awareness, and unwavering support for Persons living with Multiple Sclerosis.
