Hyderabad: Around 500 students from 45 schools and colleges came together to present a powerful message on the devastating human impact of war through thought-provoking one-act plays and posters. The event focused on the far-reaching consequences of the US–Israel and Iran conflict, including rising fuel prices, LPG shortages, inflation, and the increasing cost of living that have placed immense pressure on ordinary families across the world.
Through their performances, students portrayed how the poor are being pushed towards hunger while middle-class families struggle to afford basic necessities such as food, children’s education, and healthcare. Several plays sensitively depicted the stark contrast in the lives of families before and after the outbreak of war, while others illustrated how violence destroys homes, relationships, and livelihoods.
One of the most impactful messages presented during the event was: “WAR means WORLD AT RISK.” The performances underscored the idea that the consequences of war extend far beyond the battlefield, affecting millions of innocent civilians.
The poster competition was equally compelling, with more than 400 entries featuring poignant artwork and powerful slogans highlighting the suffering caused by armed conflicts. One of the most striking messages read:
“A child knows no borders and signs for no war – but when the sky fractures, it is always the crib that burns first.”
Mazher Hussain, Executive Director of COVA Peace Network and the main organizer of the event, said the outstanding performances and creative expressions by the students powerfully captured the pain, struggles, and hardships endured by ordinary families during times of war.
In the competition results, Birla Open Minds International School won the first prize in the college category, while Unique School was adjudged the best entry in the school category.
The programme was part of the 24th Annual Sambandh Inter-School and Inter-Collegiate Competitions, organized every year to commemorate Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The event also celebrated the lives and contributions of Swami Agnivesh, renowned faith leader and social reformer; Praful Bidwai, a leading campaigner against nuclear weapons; and B. M. Kutty of Pakistan, who dedicated his life to promoting peace in South Asia, particularly between India and Pakistan.
The primary objective of the Sambandh initiative is to sensitize students and society to various forms of violence and their impact on individuals, families, and communities.
The programme was inaugurated by Rev. Br. Santosh Kumar, Director of Boys Town Group. On the occasion, Mr. Vithal Rao Arya spoke about the inspiring life and enduring legacy of Swami Agnivesh and his contribution to social transformation.
