Hinal – a youth champion transforming her community

28/05/25

Success Stories

70

Hinal’s Voice is breaking the numbing silence around Periods”

In the tribal heartland of Dungarpur, Rajasthan, a quiet revolution is being led by a spirited young girl —Hinal, a passionate participant of Bal Raksha Bharat’s Dream Accelerator Project. Hinal is not just a learner; she is a doer, a change-maker and a ray of hope for her community.

As a Child Champion, Hinal took the lead in organizing an impactful awareness rally under the Micro Projects initiative that she is presently leading. With determination and compassion, she mobilized children and youth around the theme “Support Girls—Raise Menstrual Awareness,” breaking age-old taboos surrounding menstrual hygiene. The practice of ostracizing girls and women during those critical days, have always haunted young Hinal and her friends. It especially touched her, when she was not allowed to even touch the bottles of pickle that were kept at home, leaving apart going to temples, field to play with her friends etc. This enraged the little mind to make sure that everyone should know about menstrual health in details and how important it is to maintain cleanliness. “I have observed, that some of my friends, remained absent from their regular classes, when they have periods! Ours being a co-education school, we had advocated for separate toilets for us…so that all my friends can attend school regularly”, mentions Hinal.

From very early life, Hinal could realize that involvement of boys in her school is equally important to increase awareness and break the age-old taboos and silence around this natural physiological process. This very idea, ‘Marching through village streets’ with placards and powerful slogans, like ‘Chuppi Todo’ (Break the Silence). Gunjan and her peers encouraged open conversations on menstruation, menstrual health and hygiene — a subject often cloaked in silence. They also talked among peers about the importance of using clean sanitary napkins and maintaining hygiene during period.

“When I first learned about menstrual hygiene and rights, I knew I had to speak up for the girls in my village. We deserve dignity, health and respect,” said Hinal with conviction.

The rallies, infused with youthful energy and purpose, was met with overwhelming community participation. It not only fostered awareness about menstrual hygiene but also created a safe space for girls to share their experiences and concerns.

Hinal’s leadership is rooted in a deep understanding of child rights and empathy for those around her. This was evident when she noticed a close friend in distress, especially during the days when she menstruates. Using the skills she gained through training sessions in emotional support, she reached out for her friend’s support.

Instead of staying silent, Hinal took action. She reached out to a Bal Raksha Bharat field worker and facilitated immediate support for her friend’s family. With the help of local leaders, ward members and the village Sarpanch, the children started coming to school regularly, given access to essential resources and provided a safe and nurturing environment.

“I couldn’t just walk away. If we know what’s right, we must act. That’s what being a child leader means to me,” Hinal shared.

Her story is not just about awareness, but also about action. Hinal’s proactive stance has inspired many other young people in her village to come forward, speak out and be part of the change.

Her voice echoes with power and purpose — reminding everyone that when children are equipped with knowledge and courage, they become unstoppable forces of transformation.

Hinal stands as a shining example of how awareness, when combined with empathy and action, can lead to lasting change. Her journey continues to inspire a generation of young advocates who are ready to reshape their communities for the better.

Gaurav Sharma

Content Reviewer

“I am an editor and technical specialist at Bal Raksha Bharat, responsible for publishing articles and posts. My role involves evaluating content for consistency, and ensuring a positive user experience across the website."