Bangalore, [Date]: Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (Glenmark), in collaboration with The Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists, and Leprologists (IADVL), has initiated a campaign aimed at raising awareness and showing solidarity with individuals affected by vitiligo, a skin condition affecting pigmentation.
To combat misinformation and promote acceptance, Glenmark and IADVL organized a painting competition titled “Empathy in Every Stroke” on World Vitiligo Day, June 25, 2024. Dermatologists nationwide participated enthusiastically, submitting over 150 entries that creatively depicted the challenges and journeys of vitiligo patients, while advocating for understanding and proper treatment.
Judged by a panel that included esteemed figures such as Mr. Uday Parkar, a gold medallist from Sir JJ School of Arts, and Ms. Arpa Mukhopadhyay, a renowned contemporary Indian artist, the competition identified 22 winning artworks. Among these, 12 will feature in the IADVL calendar for 2025, while 10 have been transformed into poignant postcards intended to serve as reminders of empathy, acceptance, and respect for vitiligo patients.
Alok Malik, President and Business Head, India Formulations, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd., expressed pride in the collaboration, stating, “Our partnership with IADVL underscores our commitment to inclusivity and positive social impact. The overwhelming response to our painting competition highlights the importance of empathy and understanding in supporting those affected by vitiligo. These postcards and calendar entries symbolize our dedication to challenging misconceptions and fostering a more inclusive society.”
Dr. Manjunath Shenoy, President of IADVL, emphasized the initiative’s significance in India, where vitiligo prevalence is among the highest globally. He remarked, “Patients with vitiligo often encounter stigma and social isolation. By joining forces, we aim to raise awareness and promote acceptance. These postcards and calendars represent small yet impactful steps toward supporting vitiligo patients and building a more inclusive society.”
In conclusion, the campaign by Glenmark and IADVL stands as a testament to collective efforts in advocating for vitiligo awareness and enhancing societal inclusivity.
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