PM Modi Inspires Children’s Poetry Competition in Varanasi

On November 8, 2023, during the launch of four Vande Bharat trains from his parliamentary constituency, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sparked a new initiative aimed at nurturing young literary talent. After a schoolboy recited the poem “Mera Banaras Badal Raha Hai,” Modi proposed the idea of hosting literary meets for children. In response, the Varanasi Municipal Corporation (VMC) has announced the launch of a poetry competition for students in classes 6 to 12, scheduled from November 26 to December 6.

The event, titled “Kashi Sansad Bal Kavi Sammelan 2025,” aims to celebrate and promote the poetic abilities of children in Varanasi, a city renowned for its cultural and literary heritage. Mayor Ashok Tiwari emphasized the importance of encouraging young poets and urged schools, parents, and literature enthusiasts to participate actively.

Competition Details and Registration

Municipal Commissioner Himanshu Nagpal provided insight into the structure of the competition. It will take place in two categories: Group 1 for classes 6 to 8 and Group 2 for classes 9 to 12. Themes for the poetry entries include “Avinashi Kashi,” “Sanvarti Kashi,” “Deshbhakti,” “Maa Ganga,” and “Mahadev.” Online registration is currently open and will remain available until November 24, 2023.

The competition will unfold in stages: starting at the school level from November 26 to 28, followed by block and zonal levels from December 1 to 3. The finals will occur at the district level on December 5 and 6. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three participants, with the first prize set at Rs 50,000, the second at Rs 30,000, and the third at Rs 20,000.

Inspiration from Young Talent

Modi’s initiative was further fueled by his interaction with school children during the train launch. He listened attentively as Srivatsa Srivastava, a sixth-grade student, recited his poem. The Prime Minister expressed pride in the students’ talents, suggesting that the top 8 to 10 winners could represent Varanasi in competitions across India.

The VMC holds the authority to amend any rules related to the Kashi Sansad Bal Kavi Sammelan 2025 as necessary to ensure a successful event. Mayor Tiwari reiterated the importance of fostering an environment where children’s creative expressions can thrive, inviting widespread participation.

As Varanasi gears up for this exciting literary event, the community looks forward to celebrating the voices of its young poets and nurturing the next generation of literary talent.