Stephen Knapp Addresses Michigan Students At Heritage Contest

India-West News Desk

CANTON, MI- Michigan Indian-American Community Services (MICS) honored Padma Shri awardee Stephen Knapp at its annual Indian Heritage Public Speaking Contest, where students presented speeches on India’s history, culture, philosophy and values.

The event, held at the India Geeta Gurukul Foundation here, brought together students, families, educators and community leaders for a program centered on Indian heritage and youth development.

Knapp, an author, researcher and educator, was recognized for his work on India’s spiritual traditions, Vedic philosophy and cultural heritage through books, lectures, research and educational outreach. The Government of India recently awarded him the Padma Shri.

In his keynote address, Knapp spoke about his journey of exploring Vedantic philosophy and the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. He discussed how its principles can be applied to personal development, leadership and purposeful living.

He also spoke about his research into Indian history and culture, including his work examining the history of the Taj Mahal. He encouraged students to explore India’s past through research and scholarship.

Among those attending were Consul General of India in Chicago Somnath Ghosh; Michigan House Representative and House Minority Leader Ranjeev Puri; Anil Kumar of the Wayne State University Board of Governors; Michigan House candidate Ashok Baddi; and Canton Township Trustee Tania Ganguly.

Students competed in elementary, middle and high school divisions with the contest focusing on three areas: preserving Indian heritage, recognizing community service and encouraging young people to develop leadership and civic awareness.

MICS Board Chair Vikas Bhutada said the contest gave students a chance to learn about their heritage while building confidence and leadership skills. MICS President Nailesh Shah thanked the judges, volunteers, sponsors, parents and community partners who supported the event.