Youth play for peace

After noticing an announcement inviting registrations for the Youth Play for Peace activity, initiated by Swantana and its partner organizations, I applied to participate. I later realized that the program was intended only for younger participants and attempted to withdraw my application. However, when I contacted Lakkaraju Pragnan Kumar garu, he warmly welcomed my participation in Araku, near Visakhapatnam. I was subsequently included in a mentor-play activity. The entire event took place from 8th October to 10th October as a three-day program. The United Religions Initiative, a global community active in almost 113 countries and continuing to expand its work in interfaith cooperation, has Swantana as its CC member. Without question, the gathering will be a blessing to everyone involved.

I would like to briefly describe my experience in the company of the members who attended the event in Araku. First, I should offer a few words about this picturesque small town situated in the heart of the Eastern Ghats. The surrounding natural grandeur and vibrant atmosphere are truly remarkable. Araku is a highly sought-after destination for those who wish to experience nature’s incomparable beauty. This hill station is located approximately 110 km from Visakhapatnam. Our venue was also situated at Nature, an NGO founded by Balaraju garu. When I entered the premises, Lakkaraju Pragnan Kumar garu, Visalakshi Vadrevu garu, and David Raj garu were present, and we exchanged pleasantries.

On the first day, attendees completed the registration process. Participants came from Odisha, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, while URI dignitaries traveled from Kerala. The inaugural program began with prayers representing all religions and was attended by the chief guest and other dignitaries. Young people from several colleges also participated. The resource persons were highly skilled and well prepared. Through interactive activities and the sharing of knowledge, they demonstrated excellence in their work. Rvi Kumar garu explained the concept of Structural Peace. The distinctive teaching approach engaged all participants with the subject.

Young people conducted a circle of prayers, balloon activities, and thread- and ball-making plays. Each activity was intended to communicate the principles of mutual cooperation, peacebuilding, and the creation of fraternity. On the second day, several significant and important programs were held. Hatred is the principal evil among people and undermines peaceful environments. This session examined the underlying causes of hatred and offered meaningful ways to counter it. The EPIC method was particularly engaging.

The campfire featured dances, folk songs, and other cultural activities, including the Thimsa dance and tribal songs. Everyone enjoyed these cultural presentations as well as the mainstream plays. On the third day, the Brahma Kumaris arrived and delivered their message. URI Secretary-General Dr. Abraham Karickam outlined URI’s activities. Dr. Reni Jacob garu stressed the importance of making Araku free of plastic, while Dr. Mathai Kutty garu described the activities conducted here. A concluding recap reviewed the events of the three-day program. New friendships developed, and fresh hopes for world peace emerged.