On 10th January 2025, the Jeevandhara Cotton Green Center came alive with enthusiasm and curiosity as children gathered to celebrate World Hindi Day. This remarkable day was organised collaboratively by Jeevandhara and YUVA India, marking a vibrant effort to instil pride and understanding of the Hindi language among young minds. The event was graced by the presence of Ms Shobha Dsilva, Director of Jeevandhara, along with Ms Priti from Jeevandhara, and Ms Vanita Salunke and Mr Vijay Powar, Programme Officers from YUVA India.

World Hindi Day is observed annually to promote and celebrate the global significance of the Hindi language, one of the most spoken languages worldwide. This year’s session not only aimed to educate children about the importance of Hindi but also engaged them in an interactive and enjoyable manner, creating lasting memories and reinforcing the cultural essence of this beautiful language.

An Engaging Session Led by Ms Vanita Salunke

Ms Vanita Salunke conducted the session with enthusiasm and warmth, capturing the attention of the children from the outset. Her approach was both educational and interactive, making the session an enriching experience for all participants. She began by explaining the purpose of World Hindi Day, providing context and history that underscored the importance of the day. Through relatable examples, she highlighted the role Hindi plays in uniting communities and preserving India’s cultural heritage.

Children were introduced to the evolution of Hindi as a language, its recognition on the global stage, and the efforts made to promote its usage. Ms Vanita skilfully engaged the children by weaving stories and anecdotes that demonstrated the versatility and richness of Hindi. Her storytelling not only held the children’s attention but also encouraged them to reflect on their own connections to the language.

Interactive Activities and Enthusiastic Participation

One of the highlights of the session was the interactive question-and-answer round. Ms Vanita asked the children about common Hindi idioms and their meanings, sparking lively discussions and thoughtful responses. The children eagerly participated, showcasing their knowledge and learning from one another. This activity not only deepened their understanding of idiomatic expressions but also demonstrated the creative ways language can convey complex ideas and emotions.

In another engaging exercise, English words were presented to the children, and they were asked to provide their Hindi translations. This activity underscored the beauty of bilingualism and highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting linguistic diversity. The children’s enthusiasm was evident as they confidently translated words and shared their interpretations.

A Showcase of Talent: Poetry Presentations

The session also provided a platform for children to showcase their talent and creativity. Two children stood up and presented poems in Hindi, captivating the audience with their eloquence and expressive delivery. Their performances reflected the power of language to convey emotions and connect with others. The children’s confidence and passion were inspiring, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.

The poetry presentations were a testament to the potential of young minds when nurtured and encouraged. They not only highlighted the children’s linguistic skills but also served as a reminder of the richness of Hindi literature and its ability to resonate across generations.

Fostering a Love for Language and Culture

The event was a resounding success, thanks to the collective efforts of Jeevandhara and YUVA India. It was heartening to see the children’s enthusiastic participation and their eagerness to learn more about the Hindi language. The interactive and hands-on nature of the session ensured that the children were fully engaged, making the learning process both enjoyable and effective.

Ms Vanita Salunke’s approach to conducting the session was particularly commendable. Her ability to connect with the children and make the content relatable played a crucial role in the success of the event. By blending education with fun, she created an environment where the children felt comfortable expressing themselves and exploring their linguistic abilities.

The Significance of World Hindi Day

World Hindi Day serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting languages that are integral to cultural identity. In a rapidly globalising world, it is essential to foster a sense of pride in one’s linguistic heritage while also appreciating and respecting linguistic diversity.

Hindi, as a language, has a unique ability to bridge gaps and build connections. Events like this celebration at Jeevandhara Cotton Green Center play a vital role in ensuring that younger generations understand and value the richness of their linguistic heritage. By engaging children in activities that highlight the beauty and significance of Hindi, such initiatives contribute to a deeper appreciation of the language and its cultural relevance.

Reflections and Looking Ahead

As the session came to a close, there was a palpable sense of accomplishment and joy among the organisers, participants, and children. The event had not only achieved its objectives but had also exceeded expectations in terms of engagement and impact. The children left with a greater appreciation of Hindi and its role in shaping their cultural identity.

The success of this celebration highlights the importance of collaborative efforts in promoting cultural and linguistic awareness. Jeevandhara and YUVA India’s partnership serves as a model for future initiatives aimed at nurturing young minds and fostering a love for language and culture.

In conclusion, the celebration of World Hindi Day at Jeevandhara Cotton Green Center was more than just an event; it was a step towards preserving and promoting a language that holds a special place in the hearts of millions. By instilling pride and understanding in the minds of young learners, this initiative has sown the seeds for a brighter and more linguistically enriched future. As we look forward to more such events, the message is clear: celebrating our linguistic heritage is not just a duty but a joyous opportunity to connect with our roots and inspire the generations to come.