Xokhi Scores for Women’s Health in Bengaluru
Xokhi, an initiative by the Assam Women’s Association, is making strides for women’s health in Bengaluru. Through a free breast cancer screening programme, Xokhi provides life-saving support to underprivileged women, raising awareness on the importance of early detection.
Every so often, a community effort warms the heart and fills one with hope for the future. Such was the case with a recent event organised by ‘Xokhi,’ an initiative spearheaded by the Assam Women’s Association (AWA) in Bengaluru. Teaming up with the Poorna Sudha Cancer Foundation, Xokhi took a monumental stride toward supporting women’s health by hosting a free breast cancer screening programme, giving underprivileged women a crucial opportunity for early detection.
This life-changing event unfolded at the bustling Gautampura Football Ground on Artillery Road in Halasuru. Though typically a haven for football enthusiasts, on this day, the venue played host to a different sort of win—a victory for women’s health and community support.
The event wasn’t just about the screenings themselves but also focused on raising awareness about early detection. After all, breast cancer often lurks quietly in the background, only to show its hand far too late. With such outreach, Xokhi was determined to make sure women who might not have considered a check-up, or even had access to one, could now do so without cost.
One remarkable aspect of Xokhi’s approach is its inclusivity. While this particular event targeted underprivileged women, the organisation also encouraged their own staff to participate. As the team says, no one is “too small” to benefit from good health. From community members to volunteers, everyone who could benefit was given the opportunity.
The partnership with the Poorna Sudha Cancer Foundation added an extra layer of expertise. Known for their mobile mammography units, the Foundation’s collaboration with Xokhi helped break down barriers that might have kept these vital services out of reach. As they say, it takes a village to raise a child—and, as Xokhi has proven, it takes a whole community to support health.
Naturally, I was keen to find out more. A friend in Bangalore handed me the contact details of Xokhi’s secretary, only for me to realise, to my surprise, that the number belonged to Nandini Sen, my childhood friend! A quick call revealed that she was indeed at the helm of Xokhi’s inspiring efforts.
“Are you the secretary for Xokhi?” I asked, still taken aback.
“Yes, I am,” she laughed, as if surprised by my surprise.
“Well, I’m thrilled to see you’re involved in such meaningful work!” I said, brimming with pride. “How did all of this come about?”
Nandini explained that Xokhi’s journey began during one of the Assam Association’s cultural meetings in Bengaluru, typically centred around festivities like Durga Pujo. The women felt a desire to do more, to reach beyond celebrations and make a real difference in their adopted city while still remaining connected to Assam, the place that held their hearts.
In the spirit of giving, they started small, first supporting initiatives like the Rakum Blind School, where they provided essential items for the children. They then partnered with Karuna Dhara, an organisation founded by the late Assamese author Homen Borgohain, to support disabled children.
“Our real focus on health began here in Bengaluru,” Nandini explained. “We realised that the people who dedicate themselves to others’ care often neglect their own health.” Xokhi’s first breast cancer screening camp was set up for the staff at Sri Sathya Sai Hospital, who, despite looking after others, rarely had time for their own check-ups.
And then came the event that caught my attention—the breast cancer screening camp at Gautampura, providing access to women in the Shantinagar constituency. As Nandini explained, these camps, held with Poorna Sudha Cancer Foundation’s mobile mammography unit, are game-changers in ensuring early detection. Their aim is to one day bring a similar unit to Assam, where cultural and financial barriers often prevent women from seeking necessary health checks.
Through Xokhi’s initiatives, they hope to change attitudes, encouraging women not only to seek mammograms but also to practise self-examinations and ultrasound screenings, especially for those under 40. “We want to raise awareness about all options,” Nandini said. “The earlier, the better. As they say, it’s better to be safe than sorry.”
If you’re inspired to get involved with Xokhi, whether to support their efforts in Bengaluru or contribute to their dream of expanding to Assam, you can reach them at xokhi.awa2024@gmail.com. They’d be delighted to welcome more supporters to their fold.
With initiatives like Xokhi’s, we’re reminded that health truly is wealth, and every bit of support counts. Here’s hoping more communities take up similar causes—because at the end of the day, the smallest steps often lead to the biggest wins. As the old saying goes, it’s better to be safe—and in this case, healthier—than sorry.
What's Your Reaction?
