Feature: As the nation gears up for the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly polls, two sisters from Odisha’s Malkangiri district are making waves with their innovative approach to voter awareness. Preeti Sulagna and Shruti Sulagna, residents of Kalimela block in Malkangiri, have crafted a unique song based on the multiplication table of 11, aiming to educate people about their voting rights and inspire them to participate in the electoral process.
The song, titled “Egara Eke Egara, Matadana Nagarika Shrestha adhikara, Egare Dune Baisi, Vote Deba Pain Jiba Sabu Maa Mausi,” combines mathematics and music in a beautiful rendition that resonates with listeners. With catchy lyrics and a melodic tune, the sisters hope to spread awareness about the importance of voting and encourage citizens to exercise their franchise.
While the audio version of the song has already been released, Preeti and Shruti are currently in the process of filming an audio-video version in Malkangiri. The project, commissioned by the Malkangiri district administration, is aimed at promoting voter awareness and engagement ahead of the elections. Once completed, the song will be presented to the Odisha State Chief Electoral Officer (CEO).
Notably, this isn’t the first time the Sulagna sisters have used their musical talents to address social issues. They gained attention in the state for their previous songs on road safety, female foeticide, and the health benefits of millets, all based on multiplication tables from two to ten. Their creative initiative garnered praise for its unique approach to raising awareness and educating the community.
Both Preeti and Shruti credit their parents, who are music teachers, for inspiring their musical journey. Their mother shared that the idea to use multiplication tables for social awareness came from Dr. Sanatana Panda, the Joint Director of Higher Secondary Education. Encouraged by their parents, the sisters embarked on their mission to combine education with entertainment, turning mundane multiplication tables into powerful tools for advocacy.
Reflecting on their journey, Shruti shared, “We started this during the pandemic to encourage Preeti to learn the table of two. Later, we started doing it with other numbers to create awareness on different issues.” Preeti added, “I was a little naughty. To encourage me to learn multiplication tables, my parents made videos. Gradually my interest also grew.”
Through their creative endeavors, Preeti and Shruti are not only promoting voter awareness but also demonstrating the transformative power of music and education in addressing societal issues. As they continue to inspire others with their talent and dedication, their efforts serve as a shining example of grassroots activism and community engagement.
