Anand Kumar, hailing from Patna, Bihar, is a renowned Indian mathematician and columnist. He gained prominence for his groundbreaking initiative, the Super 30 program, launched in Patna in 2002. This initiative aims to coach economically disadvantaged students for the rigorous IIT-JEE entrance examination, opening doors to the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). Under his guidance, the Super 30 program has seen remarkable success, with 422 out of 510 students making it to the IITs by 2018. Anand Kumar's innovative approach and dedication to education have garnered international recognition, including a documentary feature by Discovery Channel. He has also shared his insights and experiences at esteemed institutions like MIT and Harvard, highlighting his efforts to empower underprivileged students across India.
Major Devender Pal Singh is a young major who was grievously injured in Kargil during Operation Vijay after which one of his legs was amputated. Today, that same soldier has run 12 half marathons, an accomplishment as miraculous as it is inspirational. He is popularly called as 'Indian Blade Runner’ and is the first amputee marathon runner of India besides holding several laurels including being a Limca record holder. His extraordinary journey from being an Army officer to an amputee marathon runner has given him recognition as a motivational speaker and he has been a source of inspiration to many. He received his senior secondary education from Kendriya Vidyalaya Roorkee. DP Singh’s extraordinary journey from being an Army officer to an amputee marathon runner has given him a recognition as a motivational speaker and he has been a source of inspiration to many.
Captain Raghu Raman's diverse career journey has been a rich tapestry, weaving through the first principles of organizational dynamics, strategy, and transformations. With a unique blend of leadership experiences—from the authoritative style in the Armed Forces to the incentive-driven corporate cultures of Mahindra and Reliance Industries, and the procedure-driven bureaucracy of government—his career has been a masterclass in adaptability. Drawing from this varied landscape, Capt. Raghu offers invaluable insights on leading remotely in uncertainty, navigating a VUCA world, and creating high-performance teams. His diverse career choices have not only honed his leadership acumen but also positioned him as a versatile authority on adaptive leadership.
Dhimant Parekh, a social entrepreneur, is the visionary behind TheBetterIndia.com, India's leading platform spotlighting positive news. He spearheaded product management and developed hoopos.com's entire e-commerce offering. His impactful contributions include crafting early versions of ngpay's mobile commerce app, architecting ibibo's social networking platform, and leading a software team at Honeywell. A versatile individual, Dhimant has ventured into theater, authored a book of short stories, and now pioneers positive impact with The Better Home, India's inaugural sustainability-focused subscription product range. Committed to eco-friendly, toxin-free home care, The Better Home aims to inspire consumers to effect positive change within their homes and protect the environment. Dhimant is an impact worker who is taking India towards a sustainable future.
Dr. Radhakant Padhi works as a Professor with Indian Institute of Science in the Department of Aerospace Engineering, Bangalore. As part of the core team of Indian Space Program, including Chandrayaan 2 and 3, he worked on the guidance and control algorithms, supported by esteemed organizations like MHRD, DRDO, ISRO, AFRL, and more. His current research ventures encompass spacecraft soft-landing, station-keeping, laser beam pointing, air traffic management, and intelligent artificial pancreas systems. His expertise spans optimal and nonlinear control synthesis, applied to aerospace, biomedical, and mechanical engineering challenges. He has authored 280+ publications and a book on Satellite Formation Flying.
Bear Grylls OBE, a global icon in survival and adventure, emerged from martial arts training to a three-year stint in the British Special Forces, honing survival skills tested against nature's challenges. Despite a paralyzing parachuting accident in Africa, Grylls rebounded, becoming one of the youngest to conquer Mount Everest. His fame skyrocketed through seven seasons of Man vs. Wild, a wildly popular Discovery Channel series reaching 1.2 billion viewers. Grylls continued his extreme adventures in Running Wild, hosting celebrities like President Obama and Julia Roberts. He's also the face of the Emmy-winning Netflix interactive show Man Vs Wild TV and related movies. An acclaimed author with over 90 books, including bestselling Mud Sweat and Tears, Grylls is involved in charity and holds honorary positions. His impactful televised adventure with Indian Prime Minister Modi set a record with 3.6 billion impressions. His life motto resonates: "courage, kindness, and never give up!"
Randeep Singh Surjewala has played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of Haryana and the Indian National Congress. He was an MLA in the Haryana state legislature until 2019 and a former minister. He has held water supply and sanitation, parliamentary affairs, electronics and information technology, science and technology and public works portfolios as a minister in Haryana cabinet. He was also given the responsibility of Transport and Parliamentary Affairs and thus became the youngest minister in Haryana. With a background in law, Surjewala entered politics with a passion for public service.Known for his articulate communication skills, Surjewala has been a prominent spokesperson for the Indian National Congress, articulating the party's stance on various issues. With a deep understanding of socio-economic challenges, Surjewala continues to be a driving force for progressive change in the political arena.
Harish Iyer is an Indian equal rights activist and Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion with Axis Bank. Iyer engages in advocacy for a number of causes, including promoting the rights of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community, children, women, animals, and survivors of child sexual abuse. He is an active voice for a number of causes and is known as one of the most prominent people who moved the Supreme Court on section 377. He is the founder of The Jimmy Foundation, an organization that stands for the values of Equality and Justice irrespective of gender, caste, sexuality or species. He is the only Indian National to be featured on the World Pride Power List, a list of 100 most influential people of the LGBTQ community across the world. In the year 2010, films “I Am” and “Amen” inspired by Harish’s life were released.
Sushant Divgikar is an LGBTQ activist and drag queen performer based in India. Also known as Rani Ko-He-Nur, Divgikar joined the country's singing competition, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, which was broadcast on national television in 2018, the same year India's supreme court repealed the Section 377 law criminalizing homosexuality. Currently, he is involved with auditioning, mentoring and training younger drag queens and aims to make drag a more accessible art form in the country. In 2019, Divgikar made his international debut with Rainbow Riots-House of Wallenberg in Sweden and in the same year released the single "I'm Coming Out" during Stockholm Pride. In 2014, Divgikar won Mr Gay India. He was featured in Forbes 30Under30 Asia, 2020 & Forbes Top 100 Indian Digital creators Power list 2022.
Himanshu, a versatile business transformer, thrives in diverse industries, displaying inspirational leadership and a knack for turning around challenging situations. Proficient in creating order from chaos, he excels in scaling operations from modest beginnings.
His forte lies in a distinctive blend of robust business acumen and profound technical expertise. With extensive leadership roles spanning various sectors including food & beverage, paper, petrochemicals, and performance chemicals, Himanshu boasts experience in general management, purchase, projects, and sales functions. He brings a wealth of expertise, adept at navigating and optimizing businesses across multiple domains with a talent for steering success in complex environments.
Debeshi, often known as Deb, is a dedicated possibilitarian whose encounter with Mother Teresa during the Gulf War as a student sparked a profound inspiration to 'Design the Inner Hero' of individuals. Her expertise as an ICF-ACC certified coach draws from over 13 years of diverse industry experience across India, the United Kingdom, and South East Asia. Her professional journey spans engagements with Public, Private, MSME, and NYSE-listed Fortune 500 organizations, collaborating closely with aspiring C-suite Executives.
With a background encompassing coaching, training, and facilitation, Deb has influenced over 12,000 individuals and professionals, notably guiding more than 200 senior professionals, including those at CXO and CHRO levels from renowned organizations such as Pepsico, Siemens, E&Y, Digital Vidya, and more from the Fortune 500 cohort. Her impactful reach extends to entities like ChannelPlay, T&A, KPMG, Adidas, UBC, Givaudan, Amazon, CBRE, HDFC, McCormick, and Reckitt, reflecting her commitment to shaping transformative leadership journeys.
Durgesh Satpathy, a seasoned trainer, currently holds the position of Principal at Imperial College Bargarh. With a fervent dedication to educational excellence, he has authored three novels, showcasing a remarkable talent for storytelling. In addition to his role as a principal, Durgesh has conducted impactful faculty development programs, specializing in Handwriting Analysis and Psychometric Tools. His expertise as a trainer extends beyond traditional educational boundaries, contributing to the professional growth of educators and creating an environment conducive to continuous learning.
Vikram, a former media executive at PMG, MTV, and Metalight Films, pivoted from corporate to cricket after realizing unconventional incomes. His viral stint at the 2004 CEAT Cricket Awards kickstarted a standup comedy journey, performing in 2500+ global shows for corporates, Bollywood, and cricket events. From SET MAX during the World Cup to ICC World Cup 2011 on IBN LokMat, his TV stints expanded his reach. With a versatile comedy portfolio spanning sports, politics, Bollywood, and life advice, Vikram's authored "How Sachin Destroyed My Life" and created "SPORTIFY-LIFE LESSONS IN SPORT." He spearheaded "WHAT THE DUCK" on VIU, co-founded Bawraas, and led 'Think Cricket' with Harsha & Anita Bhogle. Vikram's diverse pursuits include ventures with startups like Genepath Diagnostics & Sarva Yoga.
An Indian Army veteran with a PhD, motivating lakhs of students across India. An educator with India's biggest online learning platform. Five times TEDx Speaker, often invited to universities and colleges across India. Ability to mentor and coach corporations on Team Building, Ethics and moral values, Leadership challenges, and Cooperation & collaboration. Real-life examples from the battlefield to the boardroom. YouTube channel with the following across the country. Fitness enthusiast and life skills coach with experience from the army life of almost four decades. Follows current issues as they impact the region and world at large—alumni of major think tanks in India and abroad.
Sonu Sharma, the visionary founder of Dynamic India Group (India), is a multifaceted professional—an author, educator, business consultant, and highly successful entrepreneur. As one of the youngest inspirational speakers in India, he dedicates himself to inspiring individuals to realize their true potential. With a global impact, he has shared his dynamic messages across diverse corners of the world. With 22 years of research in the Direct Sales Industry, he has steered numerous organizations towards growth and fulfilment. His workshops have positively impacted tens of thousands of individuals across India, and his YouTube presence has reached 800+ million viewers in 114 countries within 5 years. Attracting over 10 lakh attendees at live seminars in India, he has become a social media sensation with 3 billion+ views on YouTube and Facebook and a massive following of 24 million+. Today, he serves as a consultant for some of the world's leading corporate houses.
Krushnaa made mountaineering the coolest sport by becoming the Youngest Indian to climb Everest in 2009, and a wave of youngsters followed suit. She then went on to become the 1st Indian woman atop the highest peaks in Europe, South America and Anctartica. Krushnaa spent years travelling the world on cycling, rowing and even horse back riding expeditions in spreading curriculums that could accelerate environmental conservation through the youth. When she's not climbing or indulging in adventure sports, she is busy drawing from her experiences to give motivational speeches as an INK talks fellow and a UNCTAD facilitator.She is a regular speaker at the IITs, IIMs and has given three TEDx talks
Dinaz Vervatwala, a Guinness World Record Holder, Health Educator, Entrepreneur, and Motivational Speaker, brings over 25 years of experience in the fitness industry. With a passion for promoting healthy lifestyles, she coaches individuals and corporations in Fitness, Nutrition, and Mind Programming. Dinaz's Guinness record achievements reflect her dedication to community wellness. As a mother and pet owner, she embodies a holistic approach to health. Her flagship Wellness Programs draw from her extensive experience as a health educator, wellness coach, and fitness trainer. Dinaz's accolades include Sports Specific Performance Training for national athletes, speaking engagements at medical conferences, and TEDx and TED Talks. She has also conducted Train the Trainer programs for prestigious institutions like the Indian Army and the National Police Academy, highlighting her commitment to fostering fitness and wellness on a broader scale.
Maj Gen Neeraj Bali, Sena Medal, a distinguished Indian Army veteran and corporate professional, brings a wealth of experience to organizational culture transformation. Commissioned in 1978, he served over 37 years as an infantry officer, contributing significantly in J&K and various border regions. Gen Bali commanded a Rashtriya Rifles Battalion during heightened terrorism, earning the Sena Medal. Post-retirement, he excelled as CEO of a leading Engineering PMC Company, doubling its revenue in two years. His leadership extended to a rural education Society overseeing 92 schools. An acclaimed author, his book, "The Winning Culture," delves into lessons from the Indian Army. As a certified Life and Leadership Coach, professional speaker, and management advisor, Gen Bali imparts his expertise globally, addressing prestigious forums and institutions on organizational culture, leadership, and competitive intelligence.
Prathamesh Kapote is an Edupreneur and Founder of CareerArch who has helped 1 lakh+ students and professionals in selecting the right career for themselves. he has an in depth knowledge and understanding of Career consulting and has 9+ years of experience. He was a participant of Young Social Entrepreneur 2017 organized by Singapore International Foundation. He was also nominated for Singapore International Foundations Overseas study Young Social Entrepreneur Shangai, China 2018 and felicitated as the Young Entrepreneur by Jagriti Yatra 2015.
Dr Pawan Verma is an author, contrarian thinker, and professional speaker, whose passionate intellectual curiosities have often led him to challenge conventional wisdom. He has extensive expertise in leadership that stems from his wide experience in guiding start-ups, serving on boards, and leading business initiatives in large organizations, such as LIC of India, Reliance Group of Industries, and Reliance ADA Group. He has also served as the COO of an Indo-Japanese start-up, Star Union Dai-ichi Life Insurance.
Dr Verma is the author of the award-winning international bestseller, Age of the Imperfect Leader. His next book, The 10X Leader, is under publication with a leading Indian Publisher. Pawan has also authored two popular crime thrillers, UNBROKEN and No Closure No Forgiveness, apart from publishing a dozen e-books and a series of romantic short stories. He has been a frequent contributor to some of the leading English dailies and periodicals in India.
Dr. Rajdeep Manwani, an exceptional academician, life coach, and motivational speaker, currently coordinates the Commerce Department at Jain University. Despite losing 65% of his vision due to macular degeneration at age 13, Rajdeep triumphed over adversity. Holding triple postgraduate degrees—M.Com, MBA, M.Phil—and a Ph.D. in commerce, is a gold medalist in M.Com and M.Phil. A notable orator, Rajdeep excelled in debates, winning the best speaker title at the 2008 International Tape Speech competition by Toastmasters International. Rajdeep's accolades include the Distinguished Toastmaster and a National Award as a role model for empowering persons with disabilities, bestowed by the President of India in December 2013. Despite vision challenges, Rajdeep, continues to inspire as a lecturer, motivational speaker, life coach, and quizmaster, with notable appearances at a TEDx conference and the India Leadership Conclave alongside luminaries like adman Prahlad Kakkar and Sri Sri Ravishankar.
An influencer and entrepreneur in the Wellness space, Dr Renuka shares inspiring lessons on leading a healthy and holistic lifestyle, specifically the importance of preventive medicine. Her passion lies in preventive healthcare and promoting healthy lifestyles to prevent non-communicable lifestyle diseases. She was also a frontier doctor in contract with the Para Military Force treating injured soldiers, women and children. Over time, she realised the urgent need for ‘preventive’ healthcare over ‘curative’ healthcare, which led her to wellness consultancy. A most sought-after speaker, she has addressed various forums like Rotary Lions Club, Police Ladies Club, CII, FICCI and colleges like Ethiraj, MCC, Sree Shasta Engineering, and WCC to name a few. She has contributed her articles to various newspapers and magazines and has been exclusively written about.
Lieutenant General Deependra Singh Hooda, renowned for his pivotal roles, served as the Army Commander during the Chumar and Demchok face-off with China in September 2014 and led the surgical strikes against Pakistan in September 2016. With a remarkable forty-year career in the Indian Army, he navigated strategic challenges on the borders of China and Pakistan, stationed in Jammu and Kashmir as a Corps commander and later as the Northern Army Commander. Beyond his military achievements, General Hooda is a sought-after speaker, emphasizing resilience, teamwork, and team motivation for common objectives. His insightful talks draw from extensive experience, providing valuable lessons on leadership and collaboration in challenging situations.
Lt. Gen Balbir Singh Sandhu, a distinguished member of India’s armed forces for 39 years, held key positions in all Arms Operational environments. As an instructor at top defense institutions like the National Defence Academy and the Defence Services Staff College, he discovered his passion for speaking. His illustrious career includes prestigious appointments, participation in national and international polo events, and leadership roles, such as Director General of Information Technology and Director General of Supplies & Transport in the Indian Army. Decorated with honors like the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, and Army Commanders Commendation Card, Lt. Gen Sandhu, post-superannuation, passionately shares his vast experiences and knowledge through speaking engagements, strategic think tanks, and as a motivational and leadership coach.
Anna Durai is Chennai's most loved auto driver. With 10,000+ followers on Facebook and more than 40 speeches at corporate offices and two TED talks to his credit, he is literally going places. Seven years ago, as a class 12 dropout, he stunned Chennai with his auto which offered a list of amenities that redefined the travelers’ experience. His speech went viral on YouTube, making him an overnight sensation. What started with newspapers and magazines has now turned into a tech-savvy vehicle and boasts a tablet, laptop, TV, and Wi-Fi service for people who don't have access to the internet. He installed a debit and credit card swiping machine to rid his customers of all the troubles due to the exact change amount. He is a keynote speaker on customer service and a customer delight icon. He has traveled across the country delivering talks in the metro cities.
Ajeet Bajaj is a mountaineer, adventurer, explorer and the Managing Director of Snow Leopard Adventures, a three times recipient of the National Tourism Award for the best adventure Tour operator. He is the first Indian to have completed the Polar Trilogy by skiing to the North Pole, the South Pole and across Greenland. With over 30 years of experience in adventure sports, he is one of the first Asian to have rafted and kayaked some of the most challenging rivers of the world spanning six continents. He has also been felicitated with the Hall of Fame award by the Adventure Tour Operators Association.
Viswanathan Anand, India's inaugural Chess Grandmaster, embarked on his chess journey at the age of 6. Familiarly known as Vishy, he has amassed a remarkable list of achievements. As the first World Chess Champion from Asia and a former world No. 1, he holds five world championship titles, triumphing in various game formats. An unparalleled figure in the chess world, Anand stands as one of only two individuals to clinch the Classical, Rapid, and Blitz world championships. Furthermore, he remains the sole player to secure the world championship in Match, Tournament, and Knockout formats. As a distinguished ambassador of the sport, Viswanathan Anand commands profound respect and admiration in the realm of chess.
Ameen believes good stories happen to those who can tell them. He coaches leaders and helps them improve their business storytelling. CEO’ s, change makers and business leaders from across the world have turned to him for help with their stories. He has studied business administration and followed that up with a course in advertising & media planning from MICA. Formerly a Vice President at Ogilvy & Mather, Ameen has over 20 years of experience in advertising, marketing, consulting and theatre. His work is deeply influenced by his experiences in communications, both as a marketer and as an actor. When not studying or teaching storytelling, he loves climbing hills and playing table tennis.
Kanika Tekriwal, Co-Founder and CEO of JetSetGo Aviation Services, stands as a beacon of hope and drive in the entrepreneurial realm. Recognized globally for her inspirational leadership by BBC and Forbes Asia, Kanika's dynamic energy propels those around her to greater heights. Beginning her journey in aviation at 17, she identified the need for transparency and affordability in charter services, leading to the creation of JetSetGo. Despite initial challenges, including starting with just $100, Kanika's resilience and innovation propelled the company to monthly turnovers exceeding seven digits. JetSetGo, prioritizes customer-centric experiences and leverages technology for seamless operations. From battling cancer at 22, to building the Rs. 500 million “Uber of the skies”, Kanika's vision and dedication have reshaped the private aviation landscape, setting new standards for excellence and customer satisfaction in India and beyond.
An adventurer by education, profession and passion. Samar has been paving the path to promote and popularize Slacklining and Highlining in India. With a mission to spread balance and its values, Samar is the first professional Slackliner in a nation of 1.3 billion people. He holds multiple National Records in Slacklining. His Free-solo record is a feat that defies death, gravity and overcomes physical and mental barriers.
Over the years Samar worked with cricketers (Jonty Rhodes, Vijay Murali), Bollywood stars (Kalki Koechilin, Shonali Bose), corporations (VFS Global, Capgemini), and refugee kids (Syrian). He has worked with the Govt. of Chhattisgarh to bring positive values and mindset to at-risk youth in Rural and conflict-affected areas of Chhattisgarh.
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