In the shadows of India’s bustling capital, communities face an often-overlooked battle against leprosy. Though many believe that leprosy, a chronic infectious disease, is a relic of the past, it remains a harsh reality for thousands in India. With more than 200,000 new cases reported worldwide each year, over half are from India alone. The government launched the Leprosy Mukt Bharat campaign in early 2023, aiming to make the nation leprosy-free by 2027. However, this ambitious goal has met with skepticism from health experts and organizations on the ground.

Leprosy Colonies in New Delhi

In Delhi, around 800 leprosy colonies serve as home to those ostracized from society, where residents have found solace in shared experiences, even as their living conditions and access to medical care remain subpar. The Satya Jeevan Leprosy Society is one such community, where residents like Tanu Bai, now in her sixties, have lived for decades. She recalls how, as a teenager, her hands and feet became numb, leading to injuries and disabilities. Her experience is a harsh reminder of the disease’s impact and the long road to treatment for those diagnosed late.

Despite being fully curable with early detection, leprosy often goes undiagnosed due to a lack of awareness. Modern-day medical professionals, untrained in recognizing and managing leprosy, have struggled with cases, leading to delayed or incorrect treatments. Prasant Naik from Lepra Society India emphasizes that the disease has not been properly addressed in medical education, leading to further complications for patients. Meanwhile, community healthcare outreach has dwindled, with awareness and vaccination campaigns taking a backseat.

Organizations like the Association of People Affected by Leprosy (Apal) and the Leprosy Mission India work tirelessly to fill these gaps. They advocate for better health policies and run awareness programs to educate communities about early signs of leprosy. Additionally, grassroots efforts by volunteers and medical workers bring much-needed support to those affected. Yet, the need for structural government investment and genuine action remains critical.

 

At FILMING INDO, we believe in the power of storytelling to bring global attention to these pressing issues. As a fixer and line production company, we stand ready to support foreign filmmakers who wish to shed light on the plight of leprosy patients in India. From helping secure permissions and arranging interviews to coordinating with local organizations and obtaining journalist visas, we ensure that filmmakers can focus on telling these stories effectively. Our team understands the nuances of working in such sensitive environments, ensuring that the dignity and voices of those affected are respected and heard.

India’s promise to eliminate leprosy by 2027 might seem hopeful on paper, but the voices from leprosy colonies in Delhi tell a more complex story. The community leaders and local heroes working on the frontlines need amplified support, and we invite filmmakers to explore and document these lived experiences, fostering global awareness and advocacy.

 

If you’re a filmmaker driven to cover this issue, FILMING INDO is your partner in navigating the logistics, challenges, and cultural sensitivities of documenting stories in India. Together, we can shine a light on an issue that demands global attention and action.