Mariyam Asif Siddiqui, a Muslim girl, aged 12 has taught an amazing lesson to the entire country by holding the top position in the Bhagwad Gita competition. Studying in 6th standard in Cosmopolitan High School which is close to Mumbai, she has achieved victory, beating 4,500 participants.
Mariyam was awarded as winner holding the first position in inter-school contest which was on the subject of elucidating Bhagwad Gita’s teachings.
To quote what Asif, Mariyam’s father has to say in this regard, “We are delighted. She prepared a whole month for the contest.” She took part in “Shrimad Bhagwad Gita Champion League” which ISKCON International Society organized. The purpose of the competition was spreading the Gita’s teachings in addition to making everyone aware of it. Speaking of the contest, about 195 schools partaken; 90 municipal and 105 private.
Mariyam discovered humanity as the world’s biggest religion through the teachings of Gita. In her words,
“It was very interesting to read Bhagwad Gita as I have got a lot of information about life from it. The holy book has taught me the golden rules of life. It says that though there are many religions but humanity is the biggest religion among all.”
Source: MidDay
As far as preparation for the contest is concerned, all the students were provided with Gita’s English version for one month. Not only this, they were made available a teacher for assistance and helping them grasp its teachings. One month later, students had to go through a written exam containing 100 questions.
Mariyam’s father seems to be quite glad as well as proud of his daughter for being interested in the holy book of a different religion. As stated by him, “I have told children to respect every religion as they show us the right path.”