ST. LOUIS: January 26 this year turned out to be of huge historical significance for India when heads of two of the largest democracies in the world came together to celebrate India’s 66th Republic Day of India.
Commemorating this event in its own way, Bal Vihar and its students went extra mile to outdo the efforts from the previous years by putting together a grand celebration with splendid display of India’s states, their culture and heritage. India’s diversity was at full display at the Republic Day event organized by Bal Vihar of St. Louis. The event took place at Ladue Middle School on January 25.
Eminent people from the city present on the occasion were Dr Smita & Dr Sharad Parikh, Dr Amita & Tony Bhalla, Deepika & Chand Vyas, and Rahul Parikh (Mahatma Gandhi’s great grandson). These dignitaries also formed the panel of judges that reviewed booths from various States and recognized the best display. Also present were Cecilia Nadal (Gitana Productions), Jeannetter Cooperman (STL Magazine) and Andrew Cooperman.
The day opened with a group of young musicians from Bal Vihar playing United States and Indian national anthem. It is a real treat to see a young orchestra playing so melodiously.
Each class put together a splendid display in their effort to outdo each other with facts even natives may not claim to know. Those present could get a glimpse of the largest democratic republic. The kids were dressed in traditional Indian clothes. There were so many details and not enough time to capture them all. There were also food samples from these states that provided an insight into their cuisine.
It was heartening to see that the second generation Indians, get a chance to view and delve into India’s culture, history and food among other aspects.
Center for Indian Cultural Education – Bal Vihar of St. Louis, a non-profit organization, since its inception in 1992 has been serving the Metro St. Louis Indian community. The primary focus of this organization is to provide Indian cultural education to students age 5-18 and its application and integration with the global multicultural and multifaceted society. They are also taught discipline, tolerance and devotion in their daily routine. The ultimate goal is “to throw the light of cultural knowledge on every child, to make every child an outstanding citizen and to spread the song of peace and harmony around the world.”
Raj Iyer
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