There was pin-drop silence in the room as the teams waited with bated breath for the final question that would decide the winner. As T.K. Aadhinarayanan and T.K. Ananthanarayanan answered confidently and clinched first place at the Lions Master Minds Quiz 2024, the crowd erupted in cheers. This moment of triumph was just one highlight in District 318B’s remarkable commitment to empowering youth across Kerala. Through three signature events, the Lions have created spaces where children discover their potential, regardless of their circumstances or abilities.
“Quizzing teaches children to be curious about the world,” explained District Governor R. Venkitachalam as he inaugurated the prestigious Lions Master Minds Quiz Competition. The event brought together some of the brightest young minds, providing them with a platform to challenge themselves and celebrate the joy of learning.
After multiple intense rounds, the Grand Finale was held at the Lions District Headquarters in Kottayam. The competition witnessed exceptional talent, quick thinking, and unwavering competitive spirit from participants.
What began as a celebration of knowledge culminated with beaming faces and proud parents as the students from HSS & VHSS Brahmamangalam received a cash prize of Rs.25,000. Runners-up Karthik S. and Savio Sunil from SCS HSS Thiruvalla won Rs.15,000. In third place were Adhitya Rajagopal and Pranav Ajithkumar from SBEM HSS Mannar, who took home Rs.10,000. All the winners were presented with certificates.
The real victory of Lions Master Minds, however, wasn’t just in crowning winners, but in watching hundreds of young eyes light up with the thrill of discovery and the joy of intellectual adventure.
Strategic thinking and concentration took centre stage at The Opening Gambit, the chess tournament organised by the district at K. E. School, Mannanam. The event drew 300 young chess enthusiasts, each determined to showcase their prowess in the game of intellect.
The tournament, which ran from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, was a thrilling battle of wits and strategies. A total of 174 prizes, 156 trophies, and 18 cash awards were distributed to recognize the outstanding performances of the participants. Every player received a certificate of participation, celebrating their dedication and sportsmanship.
The event concluded with a grand prize distribution ceremony graced by District Governor R. Venkitachalam, who personally handed over the awards to the winners.
It was at the Rajiv Gandhi Indoor Stadium in Pathanamthitta where the true heart of Lions service shone brightest. ‘Wings of Wonder’ brought together 1,500 children with disabilities from 50 special schools for a day of art and sport that transcended competition. Also present at this heartwarming event were teachers, parents, and members of the Lions fraternity. This truly inclusive event was a celebration of resilience, talent, and joy.
The collective enthusiasm, dedication, and support from the Lions community ensured that Wings of Wonder was more than just a one-day event—it was a movement toward embracing inclusivity and breaking barriers.
The echoes of these gatherings continue to resonate—in the confidence of quiz winners preparing for future academic challenges, in the patience of young chess players who learned that careful thought precedes action, and in the hearts of children with disabilities who, for a day, were simply seen as children with wings to fly.