HindiUSA Saint Louis Organizes Annual Hindi Poetry Contest

The Saint Louis School of HindiUSA, a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Hindi language and culture across the United States, recently celebrated its 7th Annual Hindi Poetry Competition. The event, held at the Mahatma Gandhi Cultural Center of Saint Louis, was organized in commemoration of India's Republic Day, and successfully brought together students, families, and community members to honor India’s rich literary heritage.

The competition was a lively gathering that featured 130 participants from a range of age groups and skill levels. These participants showcased their talents by reciting poems that spanned various themes, including light-hearted humor, patriotism, and motivational verses. The event celebrated the works of some of India's most renowned poets, such as Ramdhari Singh Dinkar and Harivansh Rai Bachchan, whose powerful words resonated deeply with the audience.

To add to the patriotic atmosphere, many students dressed as iconic Indian freedom fighters, paying homage to the country's struggle for independence. The presence of the Tiranga, India's national flag, further contributed to the spirit of the occasion, with the students holding it proudly while delivering their performances.

The competition consisted of eight levels, with each group displaying a remarkable range of expressions and emotions. From younger children to older students, the variety of performances showcased not only the linguistic capabilities of the participants but also their deep understanding of India’s rich literary tradition. The event provided a platform for young talents to shine and engage with their cultural roots through the art of poetry.

Mayank Jain, Anshu Jain, and Meghna Lunkad were instrumental in organizing this grand event. Reflecting on the growth of HindiUSA Saint Louis, Mayank Jain shared, “This marks the 7th consecutive year of hosting the Hindi Kavita Pratiyogita. Since its humble beginnings in 2018 with just 22 students, our school has expanded to include 230 registered students, making it the largest nonprofit Hindi school in the Midwest and one of the largest Hindi competitions in the country.”

In addition to the students, the event was supported by several community members, including Samir, Dharmesh, and Jayesh, whose contributions helped ensure the smooth running of the competition. Samir, in particular, spoke about the importance of preserving cultural heritage, stating, “Language, attire, and food are integral to any culture. HindiUSA’s efforts in preserving and promoting Indian culture are truly commendable.”

The event was not just about poetry. It also featured a thrilling Taekwondo demonstration by the Missouri Karate Association, which added an element of excitement and energy to the celebration. As the demonstration concluded, the audience was moved by the patriotic beats of the iconic song, "Vande Mataram," filling the atmosphere with pride and unity. The event culminated with the announcement of winners, who will advance to the next level of competition at other HindiUSA schools across the United States. This stage of the competition will give the winners an opportunity to further showcase their skills and represent HindiUSA at a national level.

Looking ahead, the success of this event is a testament to the growing interest in Hindi language and cultural activities within the United States. HindiUSA is committed to continuing its mission of spreading knowledge of the Hindi language and fostering an appreciation for Indian culture among the younger generation. With the positive response from participants and attendees, it is clear that the 7th Annual Hindi Poetry Competition was not just a celebration of India’s Republic Day, but also a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural preservation and the impact of language in connecting people across communities.