The Gita resonated with the voices of young children, and the event was filled with the fragrance of traditions. –

Dehradun: Young participants aged between 6 and 16 captivated the audience with their confidence, clarity and expressive recitation of verses from the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita at the Geeta Recitation Contest organised on the auspicious occasion of Shri Krishna Janmashtami.The melodious and soulful chanting of the sacred verses created a deeply spiritual atmosphere at the venue and left the audience spellbound. The young participants demonstrated remarkable command over pronunciation, rhythm and presentation, while reflecting the values of Indian culture, spirituality and traditional upbringing.A total of 48 participants, including 44 students from 14 schools and four children from the Bal Vikas category, enthusiastically participated in the competition. Their disciplined and confident performances offered a glimpse of the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of India.Three-member jury evaluates performancesThe participants were assessed by a three-member jury comprising Dr Harichandra, Dr Anant Mani and Dr Ram Vinay Singh. The jury evaluated the contestants on various parameters, including pronunciation, accuracy, expression, rhythm and overall presentation.Young talents secure top positionsThe competition was divided into two categories. In the first category, Bhavna Rawat of Sai Grace Academy, East Nathuwala, secured the first position. Saras Dimri of Kendriya Vidyalaya ITBP stood second, while Shaurya Bharti of Doon Blossom School secured the third position.In the second category, Aaradhya Madhwal of New Doon Blossom School bagged the first position. Gavita of PM Shri Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 1, Hathibarkala, stood second, while Shivansh Chitransh secured the third position.In the overall school-wise performance, New Doon Blossom School secured the first position, followed by PM Shri Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 1, Hathibarkala, in second place and Doon Blossom School in third place.Connecting children with culture and valuesThe successful organisation of the event was credited to Dr Lata Singhal and her entire team. The primary objective of the competition was to encourage children to develop an interest in Indian culture, spiritual knowledge, moral values and the teachings of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita.The event not only provided the children with a platform to showcase their talent but also conveyed the importance of connecting the younger generation with India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.At the concluding ceremony, Colonel Yogendra Singh, State President, expressed gratitude to the jury members, participating children, winners, awardees and guests. He said that such events play an important role in connecting the younger generation with India’s religious and cultural heritage.He emphasised that nurturing moral values, spiritual awareness and an understanding of Indian culture among children is essential for laying the foundation of a better and value-based society. He also appealed to people from all sections of society to continue encouraging and supporting such initiatives.Prominent personalities attendAmong those present on the occasion were Captain Ajay Swaroop, State Vice President; Dr Lata Singhal, State Spiritual Coordinator; Mamchand, State Education Coordinator (Gents); Shalini Swaroop, Joint State Education Coordinator (Ladies); Sapna Thapa, State Seva Coordinator (Ladies); Neema Joshi, State Bal Vikas Coordinator; Handa; senior devotee Dr Singhal; H.P. Khali; and committee convener Rajiv Dubey, besides a large number of dignitaries and devotees.A message of values through the GitaThe Geeta Recitation Contest highlighted the importance of nurturing children not only through modern education but also by connecting them with Indian culture, spiritual knowledge and moral values.The clear voices, confidence and enthusiasm of the young participants made the event memorable and conveyed a strong message about preserving cultural values and nurturing a responsible and value-oriented future generation.