A Good leader can engage in a debate frankly and thoroughly knowing that at the end he and the other side must be closer and thus emerge stronger - Nelson Mandela
On 26th and 27th December the campus of Sri Venkateshwar International School added another feather to its already lavish cap by organizing the National Level Maha Behes 2017. Formidable debators from eight cities were welcomed at Sri VIS . Holding an event of such stature and magnitude is no mean achievement. The Maha Behes witnessed a mammoth participation of 29 schools from across the country with over 400 participants. The top qualifying teams from all the Behes tournaments this season battled it out to win the coveted title.
Behes, a non-profit organization is a great way to develop articulate public speaking, critical thinking, negotiating skills and growth in confidence amongst students in schools and colleges throughout India and beyond.
Day one witnessed some adroit participants battle it out through three rounds. Each Behes round was conducted in a simplified parliamentary format. Contestants participated in two categories – Cubs from classes 6 – 8 and Lions from 9 – 12 standards. They were given impromptu topics based on a suggested reading. The free-flowing debate format encouraged growth of research, collaborative and analytical prowess apart from oratory skills. The roller coaster ride of ideas was followed by the Christmas Ball, an evening of music, fun and frolic. The stars of the evening were budding Sri VIS musicians who moved the reverberating audience with their foot tapping numbers.
The second day started with knockout rounds of debate. The final ‘Behes’ was judged by all the adjudicators from across the country. After much contemplation, the results were announced with a knife edge finish.
In ‘Lions” category, Winners were from the team ‘Gucci Gang from DPS, RK Puram and IPS Indirapuram. The Sri Venkateshwar team(Pacifiers) were the Runners up. The Winner ‘Cubs’ team was from Maxfort School, Dwarka ( A Deck With Only One Ace Cards) and Queen’s Valley, Dwarka(We Solemnly Swear We’re Up To No Good) team were the Runners up. The best ‘Lions’ speaker Stubh Lal from Sri Venkateshwar School was adjudged the ‘Best Speaker’ of Maha Behes 2017. The ‘Cubs’ best speaker was Dhriti Narang from Maxfort School, Dwarka. The finale was followed by the vote of thanks by the Behes organizers and Prize distribution ceremony.
Ms. Shalini Singh, President Tapindu Educational Society graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Ms. Rita Singh, Director Indirapuram Group of Institutions was the Guest of Honour. The esteemed guest were welcomed by Ms. R. Banopreeya Headmistress Senior Wing with a green accord and a school memento. She also thanked the ‘Behes’ team, Chairman Sir and Principal Ma’am.
The young and dynamic chairman of the Sri VIS, Mr. Sailender Solanki, a visionary and educationist, encouraged the participants with his blessings. The ever inspiring principal, Ms. Nita Arora holds a passion for learning. Her magnetic persona and enthusiasm makes events like Maha Behes a reality. This event would not have been possible without their constant support and guidance.
The ‘Maha Behes 2017’ culminated with a roaring response leaving with promise and excitement to be bigger and better next year.