Eleven-year-old Meghna Saxena recently participated in the class D category of this essay competition, wherein she had to write about an event she had attended. She wrote about her cousin's wedding, stressing on the rituals and ceremonies that take place, coupled with typical Indian illustrations.

To date, three of her poems and two articles have been published in local dailies. A student of class VI of K V Southern Command, Meghna's favourite subjects range from English and Mathematics to Science. But this avid writer does not want to pursue a career in writing, the civil service is her choice. Her role model is Kiran Bedi whose straightforwardness, honesty, fearlessness and hard work considerably impress Meghna.

Apart from writing, she also loves to draw and paint. She secured the first position in Mumbai region in the drawing competition held by Kendriya Vidyalaya Sanghatan in 1997. Meghna can play the synthesiser too, she takes music lessons on a regular basis.

Moreover, she participates in competitions organised by Young Express Club from time to time and also manages to win various prizes in rangoli and flower arrangement. This multi-talented girl gives credit to her parents, teachers and her school principal, H K Ganjoo, for encouraging her to excel.