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Digital Storytelling and Participatory Media as Tools for Health Empowerment

Birju Kumar Rajak

Assistant Professor, School of Cinema

AAFT University of Media and Arts, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, INDIA

Email ID: birju.k.rajak@aaft.edu.in

1.                Abstract: With the advancement of digital technology and its incorporation into communication, the way information is disseminated has fundamentally changed. Today, information can reach a global audience in an instant. The ease of using digital tools has led to the rise of amateur content creators and storytellers. Telling stories through digital and participatory media is known as digital storytelling. This includes blogging, vlogging, reels, shorts, podcasts, documentaries, and radio programs, all of which can be shared across digital platforms.

The evolution of digital technology has empowered ordinary citizens to become storytellers and content creators. With just a smartphone, anyone can create a video clip or mobile film and share their experiences on social media. For example, a citizen can produce a short video about a particular disease and its prevention, contributing to public health awareness. Digital storytelling has the potential to influence social behavior within communities by sparking dialogue on sensitive health topics and encouraging social activism.

Furthermore, digital technology has amplified the voices of marginalized and underrepresented groups. It provides a platform for those who are often voiceless in mainstream media. Digital storytelling has proven especially powerful in addressing subjects like sexual health, which are still considered taboo in many societies. The superstitions in the society about a chronic ailment is another barrier in curing the disease. The use ayurveda and yoga for good health can be shared in short reel forms on digital participatory media.

This article will explore the various forms of digital storytelling and participatory media tools, and how they contribute to empowering individuals, communities, and society at large by turning information into meaningful, transformative stories that drive awareness, dialogue, and change.

Keywords: Digital technology, Mobile film, Digital storytelling, Content creators, social behavior, social activism, Health sustainability