Melbourne’s Paavani Vasa has clinched the top position in the Person of Indian Origin category of the prestigious Bharat Ko Janiye (BKJ) Quiz. The competition, organised by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, is designed to connect young members of the Indian diaspora with their heritage and contemporary Indian achievements.
Dr. Sushil Kumar, Consul General of India in Melbourne, presented Vasa with return air tickets to attend the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, and participate in the Bharat Ko Janiye Yatra from 8 to 21 January 2025.
The BKJ Quiz, held online between 11 November and 10 December 2024, invited contestants aged 14 to 50 from across the globe to answer 30 multiple-choice questions in just 17 minutes. Participants were given multiple attempts to achieve their best scores. As one of the top 15 winners worldwide, Vasa has earned a place on the Bharat Ko Janiye Yatra, an immersive tour of India that aligns with the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrations.
This year’s PBD Convention, running from 8 to 10 January, will spotlight the contributions of the Indian diaspora under the theme, “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the event and launch the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a dedicated train service enhancing connections with overseas Indians.
Vasa’s triumph resonates far beyond personal achievement, highlighting the deep cultural links between India and Australia’s Indian community. It also serves as a powerful motivator for young Australians of Indian heritage to engage more deeply with their roots. His participation in the Yatra promises not only to strengthen his understanding of India’s rich history but also to reinforce his role as a cultural bridge between the two nations.
Initiatives like the BKJ Quiz become vital in fostering pride and a sense of belonging among younger generations. Paavani Vasa’s success shines as a beacon of this enduring connection and offers inspiration to others in the community.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
