As part of the Universal Brotherhood Day celebrations, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Arunachal Prant, Manipur Vibhag, organized a Chicago Address Recital Competition. Participants were required to recite the full, iconic speech given by Swami Vivekananda at the World’s Parliament of Religions at Chicago, promoting his timeless message of Universal Brotherhood.
The competition was held on October 18, 2024, at Bal Vidya Mandir, Palace Compound, Imphal. The event gathered 80 participants, including karyakartas, student competitors, teacher guides, and well-wishers. A total of 28 students from nine schools registered for the competition, joined by 18 teacher guides.
The program began at 10 a.m. with the chanting of three Omkars and a prayer. Following the competition’s conclusion at 12:10 p.m., a light lunch (Khechery) was served to all students, teachers, karyakartas, invitees, and well-wishers in the verandah. Afterward, everyone reassembled in the hall for Prize distribution ceremony. The formal welcome and keynote address was given by Sri H. Siddharth Singh ji, Vyavastha Pramukh, which followed the felicitation of dignitaries and judges.
The Chief Guest, Revered Swami Pratibodhanandaji Maharaj, delivered an inspiring speech highlighting the work and vision of Swami Vivekananda. The three judges, Shri Thokchom Sibhadutta ji, Dr. Sagolsem Kulachandra ji, and Shri Dilip Mayengbam ji, shared their insights and feedback on the competition. Following the judges’ remarks, the prize distribution ceremony took place.
The first three winners received cash prizes, certificates, and books, while consolation prizes, including certificates and books, were awarded to 10 additional participants. All remaining participants also received certificates of participation and books. Kum. Khomdram Deepa Leima from Bal Vidya Mandir won the first prize, Sri. Sapam Geet Singh from Kids Foundation placed second, and Kum. Archana Laishram from R.K. Sanatombi Devi Vidyalaya won third place.
Dr. Ch. Chandramani Singh, Manipur Vibhag Sanchalak, delivered the presidential address, followed by the vote of thanks from Shri M. Chandrababu Singh ji, Manipur Vibhag Pramukh. The event concluded with the Vande Mataram song.
