As a part of Pramukh Swami Maharaj Centenary Celebrations (1921–2021), the third regional bal-balika and kishore-kishori adhiveshans themed ‘Thaiye Swami Jeva: Vairagya – Only Him’ were held at 13 centers in Australia and New Zealand from November 2018 to January 2019. A total of 340 balaks, 378 balikas, 104 kishores and 80 kishoris took part in these adhiveshans in Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Darwin, Hobart, Melbourne, Melbourne West, Perth and Sydney in Australia; and Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington and Hamilton in New Zealand. These were also the first adhiveshans in which the shishus (young children) took part.
The adhiveshans comprised of competitions in mukhpath (scriptural memorization), essay writing and ahnik (daily routine) which aimed to increase spiritual knowledge in children and teenagers, encourage regular satsang reading and examine their proficiency in performing daily rituals. Oral presentations and Satsang FAQs focused on developing the youngsters’ ability to express their understanding of spiritual concepts.
Balaks, balikas, kishores, kishoris and shishus competed in separate categories that were assessed by 430 judges and 28 admin volunteers in their local centers. The tremendous effort put in by all the participants over the past several months was reflected in their excellent performances.