Governor of Haryana lauds brother-sister duo

Children possess the wonder and excitement to try new things. And, when they bring laurels home, they make their parents, relatives, school, community as well as the country proud. Tanmay and Bhoomi, students of Apeejay Svran Global School in Faridabad Sector 21-D, are two such wonder kids. Both of them have set a record in the India Book of Records for reciting the Gayatri Mantra maximum times in a set period.

Tanmay in his age category (8 years) has done it 21 times in a minute and his sister, while Bhoomi aced it 11 times in a minute. Recently, the duo were also recognised by the Governor of Haryana for their accomplishments. Theirs is a story that has just begun and many more milestones are to be achieved by them.

Adding further awe, Tanmay is a talented combat sports achiever too. Their home environment says their proud mother, Ms Vandana Sharma, is all about good values and ethics. “My husband, Nitesh and I maintain a healthy and religious environment at home. Often, I tell the kids some stories that can teach them moral lessons. With that, both of them follow a healthy, balanced routine to nurture their interests as well as focus on studies.”

She continued, “My mantra for them? Just be good and work hard. Don’t hurt anyone or cause any harm. Also, I never pressurise my children. They are always assured that whatever they dream of, their parents will support it.”  Read on, as the talented siblings share their story. Edited excerpts from the interview.

Tell us about your meeting with the Governor of Haryana.

Tanmay: I met Mr Bandaru Dattatreya, the current Governor of the state of Haryana. He felicitated me with 33 gold medals, 15 silver medals and 8 bronze medals. These were won by me in sports such as kick-boxing, martial arts and fencing. It was truly a proud moment for me. Sir also asked me about my age, ambition and aspirations. 

Bhoomi: It was great! Sir interacted with us and made us feel special.

How did the idea of chanting the Gayatri Mantra come about?

Tanmay: I used to chant the mantra at home as a religious practice. Eventually, I memorised it and began to chant it clearly with a good speed. So, my mother told me that if I practice some more, I can make a record out of it. Eventually, Bhoomi also learnt the same and created the record. I helped her practice with a stopwatch.

What is up next?

Tanmay: I will prepare for Delhi state competition soon for fencing. This will be for the under-12, under-14 categories.It will be held in the month of May or June.

Bhoomi: I am very excited to start my practice at Badminton. For sports, my brother is also helping me stay fit and active.

How much time are you putting in for your fencing practice?

Tanmay: I am practicing for about 2-3 hours a day. Whenever I have a holiday, I try to make it to 5 hours.Fencing is not difficult but definitely challenging.Whenever I get a hit, I try to think of other ways to score.

What inspires you both for sports?

Tanmay: The Hindu God, Hanuman is the face of strength in our Hindu culture. So, whenever I have to motivate myself, I think about him.Shiva Tandava Stotra, a Sanskrit stotra that is dedicated to Shiva also inspires me. Whenever I chant the name of god, I find the power to deal with difficulties.

Of course, I practice hard and try to perfect my skills. For those who want to start at sports, my tip would be: Focus on one kind of sport. Don’t do it all and try to master it all at one go.

Bhoomi: I will soon start learning Badminton professionally. I should be able to do well at it.