Michigan Indian American Community Services (MICS) brought students, families, educators and community leaders together in Canton for its annual Indian Heritage Public Speaking Contest (IHPC) 2026, celebrating Indian culture while giving young participants a platform to develop their public speaking and leadership skills.
Held at the India Geeta Gurukul Foundation (IGGF) in Canton, the event featured elementary, middle and high school students who delivered speeches on India’s history, philosophy, culture and values.
A major highlight of the program was the recognition of Padma Shri awardee Stephen Knapp, an author, researcher and educator known for his work on India’s spiritual traditions, Vedic philosophy and cultural heritage.
Knapp was recently honored with the Padma Shri by the Government of India. MICS recognized him for his decades-long efforts to promote greater understanding of India’s spiritual and cultural traditions through his books, lectures, research and educational outreach.
During his keynote address, Knapp spoke about his personal journey of discovering Vedantic philosophy and the continuing relevance of the Bhagavad Gita in everyday life.
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He discussed how the Gita’s teachings can offer practical guidance on self-development, leadership and purposeful living. Knapp also spoke about his historical research into Indian civilization and culture, including his work examining the history of the Taj Mahal.
His presentation encouraged attendees to explore India’s history through research, scholarship and open academic inquiry.
The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including Indian Consul General in Chicago Somnath Ghosh, Michigan House Representative and House Minority Leader Ranjeev Puri, Wayne State University Board of Governors member Dr. Anil Kumar, Michigan House of Representatives candidate Ashok Baddi and Canton Township Trustee Tania Ganguly.
Students competed across three age divisions.
In the high school category, Sumith Madasu won first place, followed by Riya Badrinarayan in second and Rajvi Rathod in third.
Sai Meghana Boddu took first place in the middle school division. Chaitrika Reddy Battu finished second, while Druvh Padukone and Akshaj Nikhil Joshi shared third place.
In the elementary school division, Jinal Verma secured first place. Isha Dadhania and Aaradhya Tumiki shared second place, while Ayansh Yadav finished third.
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Knapp presented the awards to the winners.
For MICS, the contest was designed to connect cultural education with youth development and community engagement. Students had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of Indian traditions while building confidence and communication skills.
Vikas Bhutada, Board Chair of MICS, said the event reflected the organization’s broader purpose.
“This event beautifully reflected the mission of MICS: preserving our heritage, celebrating those who serve, and inspiring future generations,” Bhutada said.
“Seeing our students confidently share their knowledge of India’s heritage while learning from accomplished leaders such as Padma Shri Stephen Knapp made this an especially meaningful experience for our entire community,” he added.
The program was organized under the leadership of MICS Program Director Subramanya Hande, with Raju Brahmandhaberi of Speaking Masters assisting with planning and coordination.
MICS President Nailesh Shah also expressed appreciation to the judges, volunteers, sponsors, parents and community partners who supported the event.
The annual contest gave students an opportunity to speak about their heritage in front of an audience while learning from community leaders and accomplished professionals, making IHPC 2026 both a cultural celebration and a platform for the next generation.