The big day had arrived, that of the International speech contest. This contest is a step above Table topics, Evaluation and Humorous contests, because it seeks to inspire, and a speech, in order to be truly inspirational, has to be cooked expertly, with all ingredients in place. It needs a special effort and deeper understanding of what works.
There were 4 participants today. The minimum criterion of having completed the P-6 project speech excluded a number of enthusiastic candidates, so ultimately TM Venkat, TM Nagesh, TM Panna and TM Rajat had picked up the gauntlet.
TM Kumar, acting as MC today, related a story about perspective and paradigm change - how a boy was commenting about clouds and trees in a moving train, much to the irritation of co-passengers, till they learnt that the boy had recovered his eyesight only a day ago. I am sure this happens to us also, and our judgmental opinion about others undergo a tectonic shift.
Contest chair TM Chaitanya took over the stage with his usual sophistry. He related the rules like a party whip and his introductions were clear and unhurried. An impressive personality on the podium you are, TM.
First speaker TM Venkat launched his speech "The Power of One", speaking about the importance of being united and the strength that synergises through unity. A strong subject, TM Venkat.
TM Nagesh delivered the second speech "The R-square Syndrome", which was a commentary on the educational system. Again a thought=provoking subject, apt for international speech.
TM Panna told us "Don't Let the Cookie Crumble", describing the depression that a mother goes through when children leave home and how to deal with it. It was powerfully delivered and many of the audience could relate well.
TM Rajat talked about "The Art of Giving", why our efforts at giving gifts fail and what to take care of in the process. A nice theme with personal stories.
The judges were about to heave a sigh of relief when TM Kumar, who was back on stage, declared that the members were keen to have a round of table topics! The members almost fell off their chairs at the allegation levelled at them. Anyway, TM Mathen came on stage to conduct the session, with his usual gentleness, and handed out topics like softie ice creams.
With all tallying over, the winners were announced for the International Speech Contest:
- Winner: TM Panna
- Runner-up: TM Rajat
Since there were only 4 participants, only two awards were given out. The above two people will represent the club in the Area contest on 25th March.
Please come and CHEER!
Congrats & All the best.... Rays of hope !!!
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