A brainstorming session on “Breaking the Barriers in Science Communication using Folk Media” was organised by the CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR), New Delhi, in online mode on 21 February 2025.
Folk media — such as puppetry, storytelling, folk art, and folk songs have deep cultural roots and foster community engagement. They serve as an effective medium to communicate complex scientific ideas in a way that is understandable, relatable, engaging, and culturally relevant. By bridging the gap between traditional knowledge and modern science, folk media help build trust and understanding among diverse audiences.
Unlike communication modes such as print, radio, television and social media, folk media allow for instant audience feedback, enabling performers to adapt their messages in real time. This interactivity makes learning participatory and impactful, especially in rural and semi-urban populations where digital, print and social media access is limited. Additionally, folk media are dynamic and capable of incorporating new ideas while retaining their cultural significance. This adaptability makes them powerful tools for promoting awareness and development.
The session commenced with a warm welcome by Dr Paramananda Barman, Senior Scientist, CSIR-NIScPR, where he addressed the esteemed guests, setting the tone for the event with an insightful introductory remark. Dr Manoj Kumar Patairiya, Dr Dinesh Ch Goswami, Dr BK Tyagi, Mr Vishnu Pratap Singh, Dr Monika Jain, Ms Pooja Virmani, Mrs Binita Devi, Dr Vikas Mishra, Mr Anjan Banik, and Dr Samir V Onkar discussed the challenges and opportunities associated with using folk media as an effective tool for disseminating scientific knowledge. Discussions were focused on using regional storytelling, puppetry, folk songs, and street theatre to make science more accessible to diverse linguistic and cultural communities across India. They also shared case studies and best practices, showcasing successful initiatives in integrating folk media with modern communication strategies.
The session also highlighted the need for policy support, capacity-building initiatives, and interdisciplinary collaborations to mainstream folk media in science communication. Speakers also put forth key recommendations, to guide future actions in this domain. The brainstorming session concluded with a call for sustained efforts to make science communication more inclusive, engaging, and culturally resonant through the power of folk media.
