Bruhat Soma, a 12-year-old Indian-American student from Florida, made headlines by clinching victory in the Scripps National Spelling Bee. In a thrilling showdown, Soma displayed remarkable linguistic prowess by correctly spelling 29 out of 30 words in just 90 seconds.
His championship word, "abseil," which refers to a descent in mountaineering using a rope looped over a projection above, sealed his victory. Soma's flawless performance earned him the coveted title along with a cash prize of USD 50,000 (approximately Rs 41.64 lakh) and other rewards.
The nail-biting finish saw Soma competing against Faizan Zaki, who spelled 20 words in the lightning round. Soma's exceptional memory and linguistic skills set him apart as he navigated through a series of complex and challenging words.
The organizers lauded Soma's achievement, highlighting his flawless performance throughout the competition. His remarkable feat included answering 29 out of 30 words correctly during the tiebreaker, setting a new record for the spell-off round.
Both finalists, Soma and Zaki, demonstrated remarkable dedication and skill, captivating audiences with their linguistic prowess. The intense competition showcased their exceptional abilities and determination to excel in the prestigious spelling bee.
Soma's victory is a testament to his hard work and dedication, having participated in the Scripps National Spelling Bee for the third time. With support from his family and coach, Soma emerged victorious, leaving a lasting impression on the competition's history.
His triumph adds to the legacy of Indian-American spellers who have excelled in the Scripps National Spelling Bee over the years. The competition, known for its rigorous challenges and high stakes, provides a platform for young spellers to showcase their talents and compete at the highest level.
