ST. LOUIS: Bal Vihar celebrated its Annual Day on May 15, marking the completion of 23 years of its existence, delivering cultures and values to the local community. The event was a grand success and cultural presentations by the students stole the limelight.
The theme for this year was “Kal, Aaj aur Kal” (Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow). Through various songs and dances, the students showcased how India and its culture evolved over the years. Many of the events showed a blend of ethnic culture, their talent and today’s world. The show lasted 3+ hours with over 35 different skits, dances and songs performed to the folk and Bollywood songs.
This year Bal Vihar conducted a “Kaun Banega Ramayana Expert” – a quiz on Ramayana to see how much our students know about this great Indian Epic. At the annual day event, the winners were honored and the efforts and awareness of all the students was acknowledged.
Prior to the annual day on May 1, it organized a “Yoga/Bhajan Showcase”. This is another annual event where students present to their parents and other family members what they learned as part of Yoga and Bhajan. It was amazing to see them perform so well and in tandem.
At this event, all the students who graduated from regular Bal Vihar curriculum to the “Youth Program” were recognized with a plaque. Bal Vihar youth students get much more involved with community and inter-faith activities. These students also assist with teaching younger classes and serving as an example.
Registrations for 2016-17 school year have already opened with enrollment topping 360 already. Bal Vihar continues to grow and influence the community in a very positive way. Last 5 years have seen consistent growth in enrollment. Thanks to all the teachers and volunteers.
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, its application and integration with the global multicultural and multifaceted society.
Over last 20+ years it has helped groom a breed of multi-cultural global leaders of next generation that have been shaped by the best of the cultures from east and west. These youngsters understand the need and value of the cultural values that have been instilled in them through the rigorous program.
Raj Iyer
