Theme: In the Now: Past Inspirations, Present Realities, Future Visions

We are thrilled to present the theme for TEDxMahindraUniversity’s third edition: "In the Now: Past Inspirations, Present Realities, Future Visions." This theme invites us to explore the dynamic interplay between our current state of affairs, the invaluable lessons we’ve gleaned from the past, and aspirations for the future. It encapsulates a holistic view of progress and innovation, urging us to fully engage with the present, reflect on the past, and boldly envision the future.

Through this year’s edition, we will strive to delve into the remarkable stories of individuals who have shaped our understanding of the future through their experiences. These narratives intend to highlight how they have leveraged their past to influence and create transformative changes, inspiring us to think beyond the conventional.

Technological advancements are intended to be a focal point, showcasing how futuristic technologies are not just rooted in imagination but are built upon lessons from the past. We will look to explore how historical breakthroughs have laid the groundwork for today's cutting-edge developments, driving us towards a more advanced and interconnected world, in harmony with nature.

Sustainability will be at the heart of our discussions, as we explore sustainable visions for the future that are informed by our present actions and past practices. This element will cover a range of topics, from environmentally friendly innovations to strategies for achieving a balance between growth and ecological preservation. By understanding the successes and failures of past efforts, we can better strategize for a sustainable and harmonious relationship with our environment, ensuring that we leave a positive legacy for future generations.

Leadership will be another critical element, as we feature leaders who draw from their past experiences to guide their vision and strategy for the future. These leaders embody the principle that effective leadership is often rooted in a deep understanding of past experiences while also being future-oriented, leveraging insights gained to forge new paths forward. We will also analyse ongoing barriers and challenges, examining how solutions from the past can inform future strategies. This critical analysis will provide a fresh perspective on contemporary issues and propose innovative approaches inspired by established precedents.

Given the fact that we're becoming increasingly tech-savvy, we're also at risk of becoming disconnected as people. Therefore, incorporating mindfulness practices is essential to stay grounded while pursuing ambitious goals. Pursuing technological progress without being grounded is not sustainable in the long run and hence not advisable – a balanced approach is crucial. By drawing from ancient wisdom and contemporary techniques, we intend to emphasise the importance of mental well-being along with our relentless pursuit of progress.

Resilience will be highlighted through compelling case studies that demonstrate how communities and individuals have overcome significant challenges. These stories will be enriched by irrefutable insights, providing valuable lessons on adaptability and strength in the face of adversity.

Lastly, we intend to emphasise the pivotal role of communities in shaping both present realities and future visions. Community, in this context, includes all sentient beings, all living beings who inhabit the communities around us. By exploring how collective efforts and community-driven initiatives are essential for sustainable and inclusive progress, we aim to inspire a sense of unity and purpose.

TEDxMahindraUniversity’s 2025 edition promises to be an impactful dialogue that bridges time and space, encouraging participants to engage with the present, reflect on the past, and aspire for a future where innovation, sustainability, and community thrive in unison. For those seeking to dig deep and learn from the essence of this theme, we extend a warm invitation to join us in this enlightening journey, where present realities, time-honoured insights, and future aspirations converge, creating a truly transformative experience.

Mahindra University, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Auditorium at the École Centrale School of Engineering
Survey No: 62/1A, Near Tech Mahindra, Bahadurpally, Jeedimetla, Hyderabad, Telangana 500043
Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, 500043
India

Dr. Monicka Singh

Awakening Facilitator, Medical Doctor, Author

Dr. Monicka Singh ‘Shubha’ is a transformative force at the intersection of medicine, spirituality, and human consciousness. A renowned medical doctor practicing obstetrics, gynecology for 28 years and sonology for 17 years, she has delivered over 10,000 babies and pioneered holistic fertility treatments that have helped thousands achieve parenthood without invasive procedures. Today, she channels her medical expertise and metaphysical insights as an Awakening Facilitator, guiding individuals toward holistic living and alignment with their highest purpose. Her work is rooted in the belief that science and spirituality are two sides of the same coin. Through her unique methodologies like the revolutionary Subtle Body Access technique and clairvoyant abilities, she has helped thousands unlock the power of their subconscious minds to transform their lives in profound ways.

Gayathiri Guliani

Founder & CEO, Kleos Entertainment Group

With over 25 years in the industry, she has forged impactful partnerships with Sony Pictures, Disney Star, Reliance, Viacom, and Lionsgate. As a consultant with Lionsgate, she produced the first-ever Taiwan-India co-production, Demon Hunters, under her banner Kleos in China, Taiwan, South Korea, Morocco, Spain, Egypt, and Russia, where she was recently honored by the Cultural Minister. Her accolades include Global Woman Leader, L'Oréal’s Wonder Women, and Women of Excellence. She is a distinguished participant in high-profile forums like Digital Davos and a regular speaker at prestigious industry events. As a consultant with Lionsgate, she produced the first-ever Taiwan-India co-production, Demon Hunters, under her banner Kleos Entertainment Group, featured as one of the top projects from Taiwan at Cannes 2024

Hersh Shah

CEO, IRM India Affiliate, India's Youngest Enterprise Risk Expert

Hersh Shah is the CEO of the Institute of Risk Management's India Affiliate, India's Youngest Enterprise Risk Expert, Creator of the What's The Risk show on CNBCTV18 and Agenda Contributor to the World Economic Forum. He is a Chartered Accountant, IIM Bangalore alumnus and Technical Specialist in Risk Management from IRM London. He started advocating the need for 360 degree risk management at a young age of 21. He carries over 15 years of experience in audit and assurance, risk management, consulting and corporate finance including structuring of strategic alliances & partnerships. He started his career with KPMG in the Governance, Risk and Compliance (Risk Advisory) services, where he worked on many enterprise risk consulting assignments across South Africa, USA, UK, China and the Middle East. Prior to setting up IRM in India, Shah set up and managed a microfinance NBFC within a financial services group where he scaled up the portfolio to over USD 15 mn leading a team of 250+ people.

Jahangir Shaikh

Innovator, Inventor, Real Life "Rancho"

Jahangir Shaikh, a visionary scientist and innovator, has revolutionized the world with over 35 groundbreaking inventions, using science for societal betterment. His exceptional contributions earned him the prestigious National Award from the National Innovation Foundation (NIF) in 2007, presented by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Honored by esteemed figures like Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar, former President Pratibha Patil, Delhi’s former Chief Minister Sheila Dixit, and filmmaker James Cameron, Jahangir Shaikh's impact extends beyond borders. Acknowledged by social activist Anna Hazare and advocate Ujjwal Nikam, he is fondly known as the ‘Real-Life Rancho,’ inspiring Bollywood’s 3 Idiots. A true pioneer of innovation, Jahangir Shaikh's journey continues to inspire the world. Join him in his mission to harness science for a brighter, better tomorrow.

Madhavi Chalamalasetti

Senior Vice President, Deloitte

As a transformation leader have leveraged technology to enable & unlock performance and engagement by reimagining how, when and where work is done through my roles in Talent and now in Real Estate. Recent impact work has been around positioning the Corporate University in India as a world class facility, an enabler for growth and an innovation hub. Curiosity, experimentation, and creativity sums me up from my nearly three decades of experience in various talent & OD roles. Academically an accountant, found my strength leading change narratives.

Rupa Singh

Author of AI Ethics with Buddhist Perspective, Founder & CEO of AI-Beehive

Rupa Singh is the Founder and CEO of AI-Beehive and a globally acclaimed AI ethicist, ranked among the Top 20 Global AI Ethics Leaders. She is the author of 'AI Ethics with a Buddhist Perspective' and Operationalizing AI Ethics: From Principles to Practices. Presented at 150+ national and international platforms, AI Ethics Forum at BRICS (Russia), Digital Society Forum (Morocco). Expert member of Scientific Committee of AI Ethicists led by Luciano Floridi. She has also contributed to global initiatives like the FAIR Festival of AI and Robotics, Australia and Tamkine International Talks, Morocco, sharing her vision for ethical AI that upholds human dignity. Rupa is dedicated to empowering over 1 million individuals worldwide to navigate the complexities of AI with ethical responsibility. Her mission is to ensure AI technologies not only advance innovation but also contribute meaningfully to humanity.

Sharath Srinivas

Cricketer, Ranji Trophy

Sharath S is a dedicated cricketer who first discovered his passion for the sport at the age of eleven. From that moment, he set his sights on representing his country and has pursued that dream with unwavering determination. Over the years, he has represented Karnataka in Under-14, Under-16, Under-19, Under-23, Under-25, and senior-level competitions, including the Ranji Trophy and Vijay Hazare. Currently, Sharath plays professionally for Tripura, competing in the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare, and Syed Mushtaq Ali tournaments. He has also made his mark in the Karnataka Premier League by turning out for teams such as Bangalore Blasters, Namma Shimogga, Mysuru Warriors, Belagavi Panthers, and Gulbarga Mystics.

Sugata Mitra

Education Researcher, TED Prize Winner

Sugata Mitra is one of the most awarded educationists in the world. Amongst his many global awards is the million-dollar TED Prize in 2013. A Ph.D. in theoretical physics, Sugata Mitra retired in 2019 as Professor of Educational Technology at Newcastle University in England, after 13 years there including a year in 2012 as Visiting Professor at MIT MediaLab in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA. He remains Professor Emeritus at NIIT University, Rajasthan, India, the organization where his initial work began. His work on children’s education includes the ‘hole in the wall’ experiment where children access the internet in unsupervised groups, the idea of Self Organised Learning Environments (SOLEs) in schools, the role of experienced educators over the internet in a ‘Granny Cloud’ and the School in the Cloud where children take charge of their learning – anywhere.