Even in the land ‘down under’, BAPS children’s activities around Australia provide children of Indian heritage with an all-round development – from cultural values and learning Indian language to training in acting, dancing and public speaking.  Such skills and values were on full display in Sydney on 23 September 2012 during a cultural evening presented entirely by children aged 3 to 13 at Sydney Baha’i Centre in Silverwater.

Over 60 young performers conducted the entire two-hour programme. 8-year-old twin brothers hosted the evening and introduced singers, budding speakers, toddler dancers and talented actors. The attendees included Jnanpurush Swami, Adarshmuni Swami, community leaders and devotees.

Performances enlightened young and old members of the audience about the importance of education, hard work, prayer and faith. The drama followed the journey of school kids who travel through time searching for the ‘fruit’ of success, coming across famous characters from Hinduism like Arjun, Chanakya, Ashtavakra, Panini and Eklavya, who each shared different values. The conclusion came with the final values of faith in God and Guru.

In his address, Jnanpurush Swami congratulated BAPS volunteers for their active role in promoting and preserving Indian culture, heritage and values in young people throughout Australia.

 “These volunteers are constantly striving to better the lives of youngsters, enriching them with moral discipline, hard work and faith in God. This programme truly highlighted life’s values that need to be cultivated in our children today,” he said.  

Having seen the efforts of the young performers, all were impressed with how the inspirer of these children’s activities, Pramukh Swami Maharaj can instil such talent and values in children of today.