To mark World Malaria Day 2025, Reckitt, a global leader in consumer health and hygiene, unveiled a striking 18-foot mosquito sculpture at Sir Takhtasinhji Hospital and Government Medical College in Bhavnagar, Gujarat. Created by acclaimed sculptor Dr. Bibhuti Adhikary, the artwork aims to raise awareness about malaria, dengue, and other vector-borne diseases under the company’s ‘Self-Care for New Moms and Kids Under Five’ initiative.
The sculpture is themed around this year’s World Malaria Day message – “Malaria Ends with Us – Reinvest. Reimagine. Reignite.” It is built entirely from recycled and recyclable materials, reflecting Reckitt’s commitment to sustainability and climate-conscious healthcare solutions.
Commissioned with support from the Government of Gujarat, District Health Department, and implemented by Plan India in partnership with the National Health Mission, the installation promotes grassroots education and preventive action. It features dynamic lighting that signals malaria risk levels—green for low, orange for alert, and red for high—and includes an LED screen displaying awareness messages under the theme “Know, Act, and Control.”
The sculpture includes three large mosquito forms, crafted from MS rods and scrap metal, perched atop pillars adorned with citronella grass and marigolds—both known for their mosquito-repelling properties. The design was inspired by Louie the Mosquito, Mortein’s brand icon since 1957.
Smt. Nimuben Bambhaniya, Hon'ble Minister of State, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Government of India, inaugurated the sculpture and said, “On the occasion of World Malaria Day, I am pleased to have inaugurated the striking mosquito sculpture at Sir Takhtasinhji General Hospital and Government Medical College, Bhavnagar, in collaboration with Reckitt and Plan India. This powerful installation serves as an important reminder of the need for public health awareness. I appreciate the efforts of the ‘Self-Care for New Moms and Kids Under 5’ initiative and all the teams involved for their dedication to this cause.”
Shri Rajubhai Rabadiya, Chairman of the Standing Committee, Bhavnagar Municipal Corporation (BMC), added, "On the occasion of World Malaria Day, Smt. Nimuben Bambhaniya, Hon'ble Minister of State, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Government of India, from Bhavnagar Nagar Palika, inaugurated a mosquito sculpture at Sir Takhtasinhji General Hospital and Government Medical College. On behalf of Bhavnagar Nagar Palika, I extend my heartfelt gratitude and congratulations for the installation of the sculpture provided by Reckitt and Plan India. During the function, Shri Bharatbhai Barad, Mayor of Bhavnagar Municipal Corporation, along with Smt. Nimuben Bambhaniya’s team, the Plan India team, and all of us were present. This sculpture not only enhances the beauty of the hospital premises but also plays a significant role in raising public awareness. Congratulations and best wishes to the entire team involved in this commendable initiative."
Gaurav Jain, Executive Vice President, Reckitt, South Asia, noted, "At Reckitt, we firmly believe that change begins with empowering people at the grassroots. Through our ‘Self-Care for New Moms and Kids Under Five’ program, we are combining innovation with community-led action to equip families with the right knowledge and tools to stay protected from malaria. Aligned with this year’s World Malaria Day theme, ‘Malaria Ends with Us – Reinvest. Reimagine. Reignite,’ our efforts focus on prevention, education, and collaboration. We are grateful to the Government of Gujarat for their support in this mission. Each step we take today strengthens the foundation of a healthier, more resilient India – and brings us closer to the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047."
The sculpture was inspired by global art-based advocacy efforts like The Water Tank Project in New York and The Umbrella Project in Portugal, showcasing how public art can become a catalyst for health education. Alongside the installation, Reckitt’s campaign includes community health sessions, school kits, and tools such as the Malaria Suraksha Chakra to promote behaviour change and enhance local health systems.
According to the World Malaria Report 2024, India recorded an estimated 2 million malaria cases in 2023, underscoring the need for increased public engagement and sustained intervention.
