Let me take you back to that day in 2017 when I attended the Behes orientation in Srinagar.
Picture a modest school auditorium filled with an eclectic mix of students, all buzzing with
nervous energy and excitement. As I walked in, I was greeted by enthusiastic volunteers and
handed a pamphlet detailing what Behes was all about. My curiosity was piqued, and I couldn't
wait to see what this whole thing was about.
Enter Salil Singh, the mastermind behind Behes, who took to the stage with an aura of
confidence and charisma. He started sharing his journey and the vision he had for Behes,
weaving his words in a way that resonated deeply with me. Salil spoke about the power of
debates, critical thinking, and the beauty of articulating one's thoughts. I found myself hanging
on to every word.
At one point during the orientation, Salil decided to lighten the mood with a joke. Mind you, this
joke might have gotten a few chuckles in most settings, but the conservative audience in
Srinagar wasn't particularly amused. The reaction was a mix of awkward silence and a few
polite giggles. Salil, being the seasoned speaker he was, quickly pivoted back to the main topic
without missing a beat. I couldn't help but admire his poise and adaptability.
As the session continued, Salil demonstrated the format of a typical Behes debate. He invited a
few students to participate in a mock debate, guiding them through the process with patience
and encouragement. I watched in awe as these young debaters confidently presented their
arguments, countered points, and defended their positions. It was an eye-opening experience
for me.
Feeling inspired, I decided to take the plunge and signed up for the next Behes event in
Srinagar. The initial days were challenging. I struggled with stage fright and self-doubt, but the
support and guidance from the Behes community kept me going. Salil Singh's words of
encouragement echoed in my mind, pushing me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace
the challenge.
Over time, I grew more confident in my abilities. I learned to research effectively, construct
coherent arguments, and present them with conviction. Each debate taught me something new,
whether it was about a social issue, a historical event, or a philosophical concept. My horizons
expanded, and I developed a newfound appreciation for the power of knowledge and
communication.
One particular debate topic that left a lasting impact on me was about the role of law in society.
As I delved into the subject, I was fascinated by the complexities of legal systems, the
intricacies of justice, and the profound influence of law on people's lives. It was during this
debate that I had an epiphany – I wanted to pursue a career in law.
The seed planted by Behes and nurtured by Salil Singh had blossomed into a clear sense of
purpose. I realized that as a lawyer, I could use my skills to advocate for justice, represent those
in need, and contribute to the betterment of society. The journey from a timid teenager to apassionate aspiring lawyer was one filled with growth, challenges, and countless moments of
self-discovery.
In the years that followed, I continued to participate in Behes events, honing my skills and
gaining invaluable experience. The lessons I learned from each debate, the feedback from
mentors, and the camaraderie with fellow debaters all played a crucial role in shaping my
journey. Behes became more than just an extracurricular activity; it became a part of my identity.
When it came time to apply for law school, I felt well-prepared and confident. My experience
with Behes had equipped me with the skills needed to excel in legal studies – critical thinking,
research, argumentation, and effective communication. I was accepted into a prestigious law
school, and I embarked on the next phase of my journey with determination and enthusiasm.
Throughout my time in law school, I continued to draw upon the lessons I had learned from
Behes. The debates had taught me to approach complex issues with an open mind, consider
multiple perspectives, and construct well-reasoned arguments. These skills proved invaluable in
my legal studies, where rigorous analysis and persuasive communication were essential.
As I progressed through law school, I sought out opportunities to advocate for justice and make
a difference. I interned at legal aid organizations, worked on pro bono cases, and participated in
moot court competitions. Each experience reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in
law and deepened my understanding of its impact on society.
Looking back, I am immensely grateful for that fateful day in 2017 when I attended the Behes
orientation at CASET School in Srinagar. Salil Singh's vision and dedication to empowering
young minds through debate had set me on a path that I could never have imagined. The
journey from a hesitant teenager to a confident aspiring lawyer was not easy, but it was
undeniably rewarding.
Today, as I stand on the cusp of graduating from law school and entering the legal profession, I
carry with me the invaluable lessons and experiences that Behes and Salil Singh imparted. The
skills I gained, the friendships I forged, and the sense of purpose I discovered are all testaments
to the transformative power of Behes.
In conclusion, my experience attending the Behes orientation in Srinagar in 2017 by Salil Singh
was a pivotal moment in my life. It sparked a passion for debate, instilled in me a love for
learning, and ultimately led me to pursue a career as a lawyer. Behes and Salil Singh's influence
continue to shape my journey, reminding me of the importance of using my voice and skills to
make a positive impact on the world.