Houston, TX - In a creative attempt to promote cultural values and encourage children to learn the Gujarati language, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha held its first ever Gujarati Spelling Bee competition at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Houston on January 7, 2007. While many of the children participating have taken part in spelling bees, this one was particularly special as it tested their knowledge of their mother language, Gujarati, which was a second language for most participants.

Children, ranging from age 4 to 14, were eligible to participate. Based on their eligibility criteria they were divided in 5 groups. In each round, the participating children had to spell 5 words and pronounce them as well. Based on their answers they moved to next rounds. The children gave answer to tough Gujarati words like with clear pronunciations. The competition reached its climax when an extra round had to be organized to decide the winner. All the 28 participating children and their parents and the audience enjoyed this competition with all children walking away with a better understanding of their native language. Each participant was given a Certificate of Participation, and three deserving winners were awarded first, second, and third prize trophies. The crowd was full of proud family and friends supporting the children in their quest to embrace their mother language.

Rakesh Patel’s 8-year-old son participated in the spelling bee and he was happy to see his son’s refreshed interest in learning Gujarati. He said, “Rather than just seeing it as a class that he has to attend, he really understands the importance of why he is going to these classes and learning this language. Through fun and competition, he is gaining not only knowledge of the language, but also an appreciation of the culture.” Other parents in the audience also agreed that the unique combination of fun techniques and well-planned curriculums has provided a solid forum for these youngsters to expand their culture through language acquisition. Nalini Patel, whose son also participated in the competition, noted how he really enjoys going to Gujarati classes. She says, “I think he really does like going to his Gujarati classes at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir and he is taking part in this spelling bee with a lot of enthusiasm. It was nice to see him excited about learning Gujarati.”

BAPS has always worked hard to promote cultural values including learning all aspect of the Gujarati language. Since 1980, BAPS Swaminarayan Mandirs nationwide have been conducting Gujarati classes which teach boys and girls as young as 4 years old how to read, write and speak Gujarati. 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. Growing up in a different culture many times means losing our own roots, but BAPS is working to ensure that our next generation holds on to their culture and language.

Pujya Haridarshan Swami who leads the Children activities in North America, said, “The Gujarati Spelling Bee competition motivated both children and parents. We intend to do similar competitions nationwide for boys and girls. It is through activities like this competition, music, art, cooking classes and various cultural programs that BAPS helps in the personal development of children. The children love to come to the ‘Bal- Balika Mandal’ where they learn about our scriptures like Ramayan, Mahabharat, celebrate festivals, play games, and enjoy outings and educational retreats.”

HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj inspires all children to hold on to the age-old values of their culture and feels that learning the Gujarati language plays a big part. Through his inspiration, activities such as this spelling bee continually emphasize and motivate children to learn and master the Gujarati language.