May 11, 2008
Houston, TX
While many would have heard
of spelling bees, a unique spelling bee competition took
place at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Houston on May
11, 2008 which tested the participating children's knowledge
of Gujarati language. A total of 68 children, ranging from
age 5 to 15 had been learning a variety of words, both spelling
and meaning, in their mother tongue (Gujarati) in order
to compete in this competition. Based on their eligibility
criteria they were divided in 4 groups. In each round, the
participating children had to spell 5 words and pronounce
them as well. Their hard work and determination was apparent
as they took the stage with confidence and gave answer to
tough Gujarati words with clear pronunciations.
All the participating 36 boys
and 32 girls were given a medal and certificate for their
participation and efforts, and three deserving winners in
each group were awarded first, second, and third prize trophies.
The awards were presented by Mr. Kamlesh Patel, Chairman
of Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd. The crowd was full
of proud family members and friends supporting the children
in their quest to grasp their mother language.
Following is the list of winners
of the competition
First Prize
Group 1: Darshan Patel, Dipali Patel
Group 2: Hemal Patel, Shruti Hariyani
Group 3: Sahil Patel, Jill Patel
Group 4: Romil Patel
Second Prize
Group 1: Manav Patel, Neeti Patel
Group 2: Nimesh Patel, Mauli Patel
Group 3: Avinash Patel, Aarti Patel
Group 4: Akshar U Patel
Third Prize
Group 1: Dhruv Parmar, Purvi Patel
Group 2: Yash Patel, Aktaa Patel
Group 3: Samir Undavia, Krisha Desai
Group 4: Mayur J Patel
Many parents agreed that teaching
their children Gujarati has been a substantial challenge
for them as the need to speak English remains greater in
day to day life. Through the inspiration of Pramukh Swami
Maharaj, since 1980, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandirs nationwide
have been conducting Gujarati classes. These classes are
taught at various levels based on the ability of the student,
beginning with the basic alphabet advancing until a strong
command of reading, writing, and speaking Gujarati has been
achieved. Mrs. Rajeshvari Patel said, "my 8 year old son,
Darshan was so excited to go to Gujarati class and learn
everything. Today he couldn't wait to go to mandir to participate
in the Gujarati spelling bee." Using a unique combination
of fun techniques and well-planned curriculums, the Gujarati
classes provide a solid forum for children and youths to
expand their culture through language acquisition.
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