Taboo Talks

The Centre for Counselling and Health Services (CCHS) conducted an interactive session titled Taboo Talks for the first-year students of CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Pune Lavasa. This initiative was introduced to provide a safe and inclusive space for students to engage in conversations around subjects that are often unspoken yet deeply significant in the lives of young adults. With a focus on inclusivity, sex education, relationships, and respectful communication, the session aimed to foster openness, maturity, and understanding within the student community.

At the outset, Ms. Arpita, Counsellor at CCHS and session facilitator, highlighted the importance of addressing topics that are frequently surrounded by silence, stigma, or misinformation. She emphasized that student life is not only about academic achievement but also about building awareness, confidence, and responsibility in how one interacts with peers and navigates personal choices. The session reassured students that curiosity and questions around sensitive issues are valid, and engaging with them in a healthy manner contributes to overall growth and well-being.

Throughout the session, students were invited to reflect on their perceptions and beliefs surrounding taboo subjects. Using interactive discussions and reflective activities, Ms. Arpita encouraged participants to challenge myths, confront stereotypes, and replace judgment with empathy and understanding. Issues such as inclusivity, sexual orientation, relationships on campus, and the importance of comprehensive sex education were explored with honesty and respect. By normalising these conversations, the session reminded students that silence often breeds misinformation, while dialogue fosters clarity and mutual respect.

One of the key aspects addressed during Taboo Talks was the need for respectful communication. Students were guided on how to approach differences of opinion with sensitivity and maturity, recognizing that diversity—whether of identity, belief, or experience—enriches the university environment. The session also drew attention to the risks of unhealthy relationship patterns, substance abuse, and peer pressure, encouraging students to adopt mindful and responsible choices in their interactions.

Equally significant was the session’s emphasis on inclusivity and creating safe spaces. Participants were reminded that every student deserves to feel seen, heard, and respected regardless of background or identity. Ms. Arpita highlighted how inclusivity is not only about acceptance but also about active efforts to build a culture where diversity is celebrated. Students were encouraged to contribute to this culture through their words, actions, and openness to learning from one another.

The dynamic structure of the session kept students engaged through open dialogue, candid sharing, and thoughtful questioning. Many students expressed that the experience helped them view sensitive issues with greater clarity and confidence, while also reinforcing a sense of belonging to a community that values empathy and openness.

The session concluded with a powerful reminder from Ms. Arpita: conversations around taboo topics are not meant to provoke discomfort, but to dismantle stigma and empower individuals with knowledge, respect, and awareness. By creating this space for dialogue, CCHS reinforced its commitment to nurturing not only the intellectual growth of students but also their emotional, social, and ethical development.

Taboo Talks thus marked an important step in shaping a campus culture rooted in acceptance, responsibility, and care, empowering students to navigate their university journey with awareness and respect for themselves and others.

Conclusion:   The Taboo Talks session served as a meaningful platform for first-year students to openly explore sensitive yet vital aspects of their lives. By encouraging dialogue around inclusivity, sex education, and respectful communication, the session helped dismantle stigma and normalize healthy conversations. Students gained clarity, confidence, and a stronger sense of belonging within the CHRIST community. Facilitated with care and openness by Ms. Arpita, the discussion highlighted the value of empathy, awareness, and responsibility. The initiative reflected the university’s commitment to creating a campus culture rooted in acceptance, respect, and holistic development.