The Leicester Bal Mandal organised a short break at Beaumanor Hall from 26 to 28 June 2009. Fifty-six balaks aged between 7 and 14 years eagerly arrived at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Leicester on Friday 26 June 2009 sporting luggage that was larger than themselves!
The venue was shared with various other groups and the balaks were delighted to allow the boys from other organisations to join their football game. The first morning began with Samuha Puja in the gym and arti thereafter.
A short sabha was organised where Yagnatilak Swami spoke of fostering the feeling of fraternity as well as explaining the importance of seva. Shukmuni Swami elaborated on the need for respect towards parents, sanchalaks and each other.
The children then engaged in sports activities and an obstacle course with sanchalaks before the main event that all the balaks had been waiting for – the legendary Beaumanor Water Blitz.
After lunch, a team-building session was organised for the balaks entitled ‘Tower Building’ where, after great excitement and cheering, the winning model was announced, measuring some six feet in height.
A thought-provoking session followed shortly afterwards with balaks writing about life's vision in various areas including career, family, health, etc.
The sabha held on the following day provided an opportunity for groups to discuss the qualities of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and a fellow balak they had previously not known.
The final sports session included a volleyball match contested between sanchalaks and older balaks where the principle of taking part being greater than winning was emphasised.
The balaks returned to the Mandir for lunch after an extremely enjoyable weekend.