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For the last few days, Somnath Sonwalkar, an occupational therapist at KEM Hospital, Parel, has been a regular at the hospital's lawn after finishing work at the outpatient department.

For the last few days, Somnath Sonwalkar, an occupational therapist at KEM Hospital, Parel, has been a regular at the hospital's lawn after finishing work at the outpatient department.

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Joining a group of theatre actors, Sonwalkar, 29, uses his college theatre experience to rehearse his lines to perfection for a street play against tobacco consumption.

On May 31 — World No Tobacco Day — Sonawalkar will be part of a 20-minute play at three different locations in Parel.

For the first time, the Mumbai chapter of the Indian Medical Association has organised a street play roping in medical and paramedical professionals along with the local 'Jidda' theatre group to raise awareness about ill effects of tobacco.

“We see several cases related to tobacco abuse and counsel them against its consumption. However, this play will allow us to talk to the general public and convince them in an different manner to stop using tobacco,” said Sonwalkar.

“The play peppered with songs will address issues such as reasons for smoking or chewing tobacco, effects of long term tobacco use and how to stop consumption,” said Dr Kishor Khushale, associate professor at KEM Hospital who has written and directed the play.

Rahul Bhandare, the hospital's ward boy, will assist with the play's music while three doctors will act as medical professionals providing information to patients and journalists.