Michigan Indian Americans Honor Padma Shri Stephen Knapp at IHPC 2026

The annual Indian Heritage Public Speaking Contest, organized by the Michigan Indian American Community Services, took place at the India Geeta Gurukul Foundation in Canton. Students from elementary, middle, and high school delivered speeches on topics related to India's history, philosophy, culture, and values.

Knapp, who recently received the Padma Shri from the Government of India, delivered the keynote address. He spoke about his personal journey into Vedantic philosophy and the practical applications of the Bhagavad Gita for self-development, leadership, and purposeful living. He also discussed his historical research on Indian civilization, including his work on the Taj Mahal.

Distinguished guests at the event included Indian Consul General in Chicago Somnath Ghosh, Michigan House Minority Leader Ranjeev Puri, Wayne State University Board of Governors member Dr. Anil Kumar, and Canton Township Trustee Tania Ganguly.

In the high school division, Sumith Madasu took first place, followed by Riya Badrinarayan and Rajvi Rathod. Sai Meghana Boddu won the middle school category, with Chaitrika Reddy Battu in second and Druvh Padukone and Akshaj Nikhil Joshi sharing third. Jinal Verma topped the elementary division, while Isha Dadhania and Aaradhya Tumiki shared second and Ayansh Yadav placed third.

MICS Board Chair Vikas Bhutada said the event reflected the organization's mission of preserving heritage and inspiring future generations. The program was led by MICS Program Director Subramanya Hande, with assistance from Raju Brahmandhaberi of Speaking Masters. MICS President Nailesh Shah thanked the judges, volunteers, sponsors, parents, and community partners.