Bhubaneswar, Sept 26: Odia filmmaker Pradeep Kumar Nayak has brought global attention to the issue of menstrual health with his powerful documentary, "Paid Period Leave – A Right, Not a Favor". The film was screened at the United Nations during the 4th International Conference on Paid Period Leave, sparking important conversations about the need for paid menstrual leave as a fundamental human right, rather than a workplace privilege.

Directed and produced by Nayak, the documentary sheds light on the challenges women face during menstruation and advocates for policy reforms that would ensure paid period leave for all women. Nayak, an alumnus of the Biju Patanik Institute of Film Technology, is a well-respected figure in Odisha's entertainment industry.

The documentary was officially launched by Vikas Khanna and Renee Knorr, who emphasized the importance of global recognition for menstrual health and workers' rights. The screening also highlighted a growing movement, with 74 companies in countries like India, Sri Lanka, and Kenya already implementing paid period leave policies.

Advocates are now pushing for global recognition of menstrual health as an essential aspect of worker's rights, hoping to inspire widespread policy changes around the world.