Kolkata: Sending out a powerful message against tobacco addiction, one of Kolkata’s largest public awareness initiatives marked the observance of World No Tobacco Day 2026 as Soumen’s Workout, one of Kolkata’s top fitness and wellness organisations, along with the Jago India Jago Fitness Campaign successfully organized the 16th edition of the World No Tobacco Day Awareness Rally on Sunday.
Held in line with the World Health Organization’s 2026 theme, “Unmasking the Appeal – Countering Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction,” the rally commenced from Rani Rashmoni Roy Crossing, Esplanade, and culminated at Victoria Memorial, drawing participation from more than 100 fitness enthusiasts, students, youth volunteers, social workers and health-conscious citizens.
A major attraction of the event was the dramatic appearance of theatrical “Tobacco Ghosts,” whose spine-chilling visuals symbolized the deadly grip of tobacco addiction and drew significant public attention. Participants carried placards, banners and awareness messages, formed a human chain, and took a collective oath pledging to remain tobacco-free and encourage others to adopt healthier lifestyles.
The campaign highlighted alarming public health concerns. According to the Global Youth Tobacco Survey 2019, nearly 8.4% of Indian school-going children aged 13-15 use tobacco, while tobacco-related diseases claim approximately 3,600 lives every day in India. Experts continue to warn that tobacco consumption significantly increases the risk of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, chronic lung disorders, stroke and several other life-threatening illnesses, while passive smoking endangers non-smokers, including children and senior citizens.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Soumen Das, Proprietor of Soumen’s Workout, said, “For sixteen consecutive years, this rally has been a movement for social change. The fight against tobacco begins with awareness and personal commitment. If we can inspire even one young person to choose fitness over addiction, we move one step closer to building a healthier and stronger India.”
Organizers reiterated that beyond the annual rally, initiatives such as International Yoga Day, Anti-Obesity Day and the nationwide Jago India Jago campaign continue to promote preventive healthcare and fitness awareness across the country.
