On February 15, 2020, kishoris (ages 14-22) from across the Northeast region gathered to participate in the Amrut Cup volleyball tournament in Parsippany, NJ. Over 275 kishoris from across 22 centers competed in a bracket tournament that challenged kishoris to harness teamwork, positivity, and sportsmanship. The daylong event allowed kishoris to build connections with others from across the region, strengthening their relationships on-court and off-court.
The morning and evening programs emphasized the values taught by Yogiji Maharaj: Samp (unity), Suhradbhav (solidarity), and Ekta (oneness). These values have been reiterated to kishoris in their weekly Sunday sabhas; however, the competition allowed kishoris to apply the satsang ideals into their own lives. Additionally, kishoris practiced their daily ahnik of arti during the tournament.
The kishoris walked away with a memorable experience, in part due to the great efforts of local and regional volunteers. Over 70 volunteers gathered to make the first-time event a success. The volunteers exemplified selfless seva (service) to help execute the competition.
His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, current spiritual leader of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, continues to build on the vision set forth by His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj of encouraging youth to be involved in all aspects of the organization. Events like this tournament create an environment for youth to grow together in their pursuit of satsang.