Over 1,180 balaks and balikas participated in the Bal-Balika Shibirs held in Adelaide, Auckland, Brisbane, Christchurch, Melbourne, Melbourne South, Perth, Sydney, Suva (Fiji) and Wellington.
The theme, ‘My Akshardham, My Home: Let’s Build It Together’, was based on Mahant Swami Maharaj’s vision for the devotees of the Asia Pacific region to build a grand Akshardham in Melbourne, Australia. The shibirs focused on what balaks and balikas can do personally in their own homes to help make this vision a reality.
The shibirs focused on four main topics: Guru Sankalp & Mahima, Seva, Samp, and Niyam-Dharma. The children learnt how each of these four pillars is critical to not only building the physical Akshardham, but also to building an Akshardham within themselves.
Each session included insightful talks by BAPS swamis, group discussions and fun activities to explain the meaning and practical implementation of each pillar. The sessions highlighted the importance of samp (teamwork) in completing any task, benefits of selfless service, and importance of following niyams (codes of conduct).
The shibirs guided the balaks and balikas on how to grow spiritually, learn about themselves, and connect with others.