(November 1, 2021) PC Musthafa realised very early that being enterprising was the only way to ride out of abject poverty. He was only 10 years old when the realisation dawned on him. Hailing from a remote village in Kerala’s Wayanad district, Musthafa’s father worked as a daily wage labourer for less than ₹10 a day, and Musthafa gave a helping hand to his father in his work to earn a little bit.
But he had a plan in place. After saving money for a long time, Musthafa bought a goat, reared it and sold it after some time. He used that money to buy a cow which became a source of income for the family. Musthafa had found a way to keep his family afloat through his venture.
Musthafa, who founded iD Fresh Foods decades later, says that he may have had a very active mind, but he was weak in one area. “I was very poor in studies. Once I failed in class six and stopped going to school. I decided to help my father in earning a living,” he says talking to Global Indian.
PC Musthafa is the CEO of iD Fresh Foods.
Musthafa’s teacher, “Mathew Sir,” saw a spark in the young boy and convinced him to continue his studies. It wasn’t very comfortable for him to sit with his juniors, but somehow he developed an interest in mathematics. And there was no looking back.
Within a year, he was topping not only in mathematics but other subjects too. That, in a way, changed his life. “The lesson out here was when your confidence is low, take baby steps. Learn from your experience and slowly work towards your goals. That’s when I started enjoying school a lot.” he says. Later he did engineering at the National Institute of Technology, Calicut.
Somewhere along the line, Musthafa’s entrepreneurial drive got lost as he got busy with his education and then a job came his way. While working a 9-5 job in the Middle East, he realised that this was not something he wanted to do for long. Moreover, he was keen to do something for his village, especially its children. “There were many kids from my village who were way smarter than me. But like me they didn’t get the opportunity. I wanted to offer them something,” he says.
He decided to give in to his entrepreneurial yearnings, quit his job in 2003 and returned to India. Meanwhile, Musthafa did his MBA from IIM, Bangalore, and started brainstorming with his cousins to start a new venture.
One day, one of his cousins mentioned a local store selling dosa batter in plastic packets with a rubber band to hold it together. “The batter was in demand, yet people had issues about packaging. Some people were complaining about it being unhygienic. That’s when we stepped in,” Musthafa shares.
With around ₹50,000, Musthafa plunged into the batter business. Four of his cousins joined him. In 2005, iD Fresh Food rolled out from a 50 sq ft kitchen. The journey began with two grinders, a mixer, a sealing machine and a second-hand gear-less scooter. Musthafa and his cousins would go to the market every morning, buy rice, urad dal, come back, wash it, grind it, and put it on fermentation. The following day they would pack it and load it on the scooter to sell the batter packets. “It was back-breaking work. Our shirts were soaked in sweat, yet we enjoyed it a lot.” he laughs.
PC Mustafa preparing dosa
It took them almost nine months to get 20 customers and sell 100 packets.
Today iD sells more than one lakh packets every day. “Idlis and dosas from batter feeds more than one million Indians everyday,” says a proud Mustafa.
According to TiE Chennai, in 2018, the iD Fresh Food was ₹1,000 crore brand.
The company has its presence across South India and West India, Dubai and the US. With the backing of large investors such as Helion Venture Partners and Azim Premji’s investment, iD Fresh Food is spreading its wings and reaching Europe. It has diversified its products with inclusion of filter coffee and others.
Talks are on with a few more investors for the next round of funding as iD plans to expand in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait. “Our existing partner, Helion Venture is about to exit and we have more people interested in investing in our future,” Musthafa informs.
With a team of 2,000 employees across the globe, iD Fresh Food is on a growth spree that few companies can match. Apart from its flagship batter, iD’s other popular products include Malabar parotta, paneer, filter coffee and bread,
An early riser, Musthafa enjoys spiritual books during his free time. Though he enjoys all kinds of food, he claims he can’t cook. “My dosa resembles Australia’s map,” he smiles.
Looking back at his life from a remote village to being one of India’s most successful young entrepreneurs, Musthafa says, “The journey has been tough, yet very memorable and satisfying.” But he has a long way to go and scale greater heights.
(November 24, 2024) In 1981, with $250 in seed capital, Nandan Nilekani joined six others around a borrowed table to launch a company. Over the years, Infosys became India’s first globally recognized IT giant, symbolizing the country’s emergence as a global technology leader. For Nilekani, however, Infosys was just the beginning. From leading Aadhaar, the world’s largest biometric identity program, to driving digital initiatives like UPI and India Stack, the Global Indian has been instrumental in transforming India’s infrastructure. His work spans education, through EkStep; artificial intelligence, with Adbhut India; to addressing systemic challenges in water, urban governance, and inclusion. Nandan and Rohini Nilekani are also among India’s top philanthropists, and have pledged half their wealth to the Giving Pledge. Recently, Nilekani was featured in TIME’s 100 Top Voices in AI 2024. Infosys: Making India a global IT leader Founded in 1981, Infosys came into being at a time when the idea of a globally competitive Indian technology company was almost unimaginable. Co-founded by Nandan Nilekani, N.R. Narayana Murthy, and five others, the company began in a small Pune apartment with just $250 in seed funding. The challenges of launching a software services firm in India’s tightly regulated economy were
dea of a globally competitive Indian technology company was almost unimaginable. Co-founded by Nandan Nilekani, N.R. Narayana Murthy, and five others, the company began in a small Pune apartment with just $250 in seed funding. The challenges of launching a software services firm in India’s tightly regulated economy were immense, requiring innovation, persistence, and a long-term vision.
In those early years, Nilekani’s ability to build relationships was critical. He secured Infosys’ first significant international contract with Data Basics Corporation in the United States in 1983, a deal that marked the company’s entry into the global market. “That deal wasn’t just a win for Infosys—it was proof that Indian companies could deliver world-class solutions,” Nilekani later said.
Infosys set itself apart with its emphasis on ethics and transparency. The company introduced employee stock ownership plans, fostering loyalty and aligning employee interests with its success. In an era when corporate governance in India was opaque, Infosys became a model for accountability and professionalism.
The company’s transformative moment came in 1999 when it became the first Indian firm to list on NASDAQ. This event brought global recognition to Infosys and marked India’s arrival on the international technology stage. “NASDAQ wasn’t just about raising capital,” Nilekani remarked. “It was about demonstrating that Indian companies could thrive on the global stage.”
[caption id="attachment_60565" align="aligncenter" width="722"] The co-founders of Infosys[/caption]
Nilekani became Infosys’ CEO in 2002, leading the company through a period of rapid expansion. Under his leadership, Infosys’ revenues grew from $500 million to $3 billion by 2007, and its workforce expanded to over 70,000. Nilekani emphasized scalability and adaptability, ensuring that Infosys could navigate the rapidly evolving global technology landscape.
In 2009, Nilekani left Infosys to take on a new challenge: Aadhaar. However, his association with the company didn’t end there. In 2017, during a leadership crisis, he returned as non-executive chairman, stabilizing the company and reaffirming its founding principles.
Aadhaar: Redefining Governance at Scale
In 2009, Nilekani was appointed chairman of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), tasked with creating Aadhaar, a biometric identity system designed to provide every Indian with a unique ID. At the time, millions of Indians lacked formal identity documents, barring them from accessing essential services such as banking, healthcare, and welfare programs. Aadhaar aimed to bridge this gap by using cutting-edge biometric technology.
Aadhaar combined fingerprints, iris scans, and demographic data to assign a unique 12-digit number to each individual. Nilekani envisioned Aadhaar as more than just an identification system. “It was about creating an infrastructure for inclusion and empowerment,” he explained.
The scale of Aadhaar was unprecedented. Enrolling over 1.4 billion people, Aadhaar became the largest biometric database in the world. It transformed how government programs were delivered, enabling direct benefit transfers that eliminated middlemen and reduced corruption. For instance, Aadhaar saved the government an estimated $12 billion by identifying and removing duplicate or fraudulent beneficiaries.
Beyond welfare delivery, Aadhaar became the backbone of India’s digital economy. It enabled initiatives like the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), which revolutionized digital payments and brought millions into the formal economy. Nilekani described Aadhaar as a “digital highway” that supported innovation across sectors.
However, Aadhaar was not without criticism. Privacy advocates raised concerns about the potential misuse of data, while logistical challenges occasionally excluded beneficiaries from welfare schemes. In 2018, the Supreme Court of India upheld Aadhaar’s constitutionality but imposed limits on its mandatory use. Nilekani acknowledged these issues, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement. “No system of this scale is without challenges,” he said, “but Aadhaar has fundamentally changed how India delivers services.”
Nandan Nilekani’s work has extended far beyond Infosys and Aadhaar. Over the years, he has founded, supported, and advised numerous initiatives that address systemic challenges across education, technology, finance, and governance. Each venture reflects Nilekani’s unwavering focus on using technology and innovation as tools to empower individuals and drive societal change.
EkStep: Transforming Education
In 2015, Nandan and his wife Rohini Nilekani co-founded EkStep, a nonprofit platform aimed at tackling India’s persistent learning crisis. The initiative was driven by alarming statistics: over 250 million children in India lacked basic literacy and numeracy skills. EkStep employs digital learning tools to create personalized educational experiences, focusing on foundational skills in reading, writing, and mathematics.
It’s an ambitious but scalable mission: to create a universal learning platform that educators, parents, and children can access freely. Supported by $10 million in seed funding from the Nilekanis, the platform uses open-source technology to provide content and tools in multiple Indian languages. Its reach has steadily expanded, impacting millions of learners across India.
“We wanted to create something that addressed education gaps at scale, using technology as an enabler,” Nilekani explained. “EkStep isn’t just about tools—it’s about creating access for every child, regardless of their circumstances.”
India Stack: Building Digital Public Infrastructure
Another groundbreaking initiative spearheaded by Nilekani is India Stack, a set of open APIs designed to provide a unified platform for identity verification, financial transactions, and data sharing. By integrating components such as Aadhaar, UPI, and DigiLocker, India Stack has enabled a seamless digital experience for citizens and businesses alike.
India Stack is now regarded as a model for digital public infrastructure worldwide, demonstrating how governments can leverage technology to drive inclusion. For instance, DigiLocker allows citizens to securely store and share official documents, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and increasing efficiency. “India Stack represents the idea of building infrastructure that enables innovation for everyone,” Nilekani said.
Unified Payments Interface (UPI): Revolutionizing Digital Transactions
Nilekani’s role in creating the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has been transformative for India’s financial ecosystem. UPI, developed under the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), allows instant real-time payments between bank accounts via smartphones. By making digital transactions simple, secure, and accessible, UPI has brought millions of unbanked Indians into the formal financial system.
As of 2022, UPI had processed over $1 trillion in annual transactions, cementing its place as a cornerstone of India’s digital economy. Nilekani, who served as an advisor to NPCI during UPI’s development, believes its success stems from its inclusive design. “UPI has leveled the playing field for small businesses and individuals alike,” he noted. “It’s a prime example of how technology can democratize access.”
Adbhut India: Harnessing AI for Public Good
In 2024, Nandan Nilekani launched Adbhut India, an ambitious initiative to develop artificial intelligence (AI) solutions tailored to India’s unique challenges. Recognizing the potential of AI to address systemic issues, Nilekani emphasized the importance of creating inclusive and ethical AI systems.
One of Adbhut India’s primary objectives is building datasets in Indic languages, enabling AI applications to cater to India’s diverse linguistic landscape. Additionally, the initiative explores AI’s role in education, healthcare, and agriculture, aiming to close gaps in access and efficiency. “AI must be designed to empower—not exclude,” Nilekani said.
Supporting Startups and Entrepreneurs
Nandan Nilekani has also become a prominent supporter of India’s startup ecosystem, investing in and advising numerous ventures that align with his vision for inclusive innovation. He has backed companies across sectors such as fintech, healthcare, and education, offering mentorship and strategic guidance to entrepreneurs tackling India’s unique challenges.
For example, Nilekani is a key investor in the digital lending platform Avanti Finance, which provides affordable financial services to underserved communities. Through such investments, he has championed the idea of leveraging technology to drive financial inclusion.
The Social Security Mission
As part of his commitment to social infrastructure, Nandan Nilekani has also worked on developing a framework for India’s social security architecture. In collaboration with various policymakers and organizations, he has contributed to initiatives aimed at providing pension coverage and financial security for informal sector workers.
Data Empowerment and Protection
Nilekani’s efforts in advancing data empowerment have been equally significant. He is a vocal advocate for creating systems where individuals retain control over their data, enabling them to leverage it for personal and financial growth. His work in this area has informed India’s Data Empowerment and Protection Architecture (DEPA), which seeks to balance innovation with privacy.
“We live in a world where data is power,” Nilekani said. “The challenge is to ensure that this power rests with individuals, not corporations or governments.”
Giving Back: A Lifelong Commitment
Philanthropy has been central to Nilekani’s journey. In 2017, he and his wife Rohini joined The Giving Pledge, committing to donate at least half their wealth to social causes. Their initiatives span education, urban governance, water conservation, and climate resilience.
The couple’s approach to philanthropy reflects a blend of grassroots support and systemic reform. While Rohini focuses on advocacy, Nilekani concentrates on leveraging technology to solve complex problems.
“Philanthropy is about building platforms that endure,” Nilekani said. “It’s about solving problems at scale, not just addressing symptoms.”
Awards and Recognition
Nilekani’s contributions have earned him widespread recognition. He was named among TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2006 and among the 100 Most Influential People in AI in 2024. In 2017, he received the Economic Times Lifetime Achievement Award for his transformative impact on India’s economy and society.
His influence extends beyond accolades. Nilekani’s work has fundamentally reshaped India’s technological and economic landscape, empowering millions and setting global benchmarks for innovation.
(February 17, 2024) While the effects of AI on health and work-life balance are receiving widespread attention, snakebites continue to be a neglected public health issue. WHO estimates about five million snakebite occurrences in India annually leading to nearly 2.7 million envenomings (a life-threatening disease caused by snake venoms). These incidents lead to somewhere between 81,000 and 138,000 deaths annually in the country. Snakebite envenoming also causes up to 400,000 cases of amputation and other permanent disabilities. American by birth and Indian at heart, herpetologist and conservationist Romulus Whitaker is one of the few individuals who has dedicated his life to addressing this problem. Born in New York in 1943, Whitaker arrived in India as an eight-year-old. He fell in love with the country and made it home. Driven by his deep passion for wildlife, he embarked on a life-long journey dedicated to the study and conservation of India's reptiles, establishing himself as a herpetologist and conservationist. Over the years, he has made invaluable contributions to wildlife research and nature conservation in India, and has pioneered several significant projects. He established the Madras Snake Park in 1969, the The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust in 1976, the Andamans Centre of Island
ed the Madras Snake Park in 1969, the The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust in 1976, the Andamans Centre of Island Ecology in 1989, and the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station in 2005. His contributions have been recognised with prestigious awards, including the Whitley Award, Rolex Award, Order of Golden Ark, Peter Scott Award, Salim Ali Award, and the Padma Shri.
Two species, Eryx whitakeri, a type of Indian boa, and Bungarus romulusi, a species of krait, are named after Whitaker. In addition to penning numerous technical papers and books, such as ‘Snakes of India: The Field Guide,’ Whitaker has directed and produced several wildlife documentaries, including the Emmy Award-winning ‘The King and I,’ that explores the natural history of the king cobra, the largest venomous snake in the world. Acclaimed as the 'Snakeman of India,' Whitaker is professionally affiliated with multiple organisations working towards wildlife conservation across the world. Fluent in Tamil and Hindi, Whitaker has recently released the first volume of his three-part memoir, 'Snakes, Drugs and Rock 'n' Roll: My Early Years,' published by Harper Collins and co-authored by Janaki Lenin.
Addressing the ‘poor man’s disease’
For decades, Romulus Whitaker and his team have been dedicated to addressing snakebite issues in India. Referred to as a 'poor man's disease,' it not only causes physical harm to its victims but also places a considerable burden on their families, as those affected are predominantly individuals employed in agricultural settings.
Dealing with snakebites in rural areas is tough. Awareness is crucial, especially about medically important venomous snakes like the spectacled cobra, Russell’s viper, common krait, and saw-scaled viper, most commonly found across the geographical region.
Over the years, Whitaker has worked towards educating rural communities on snakebite prevention, providing guidance on safety protocols, and aiding in the identification of the four most dangerous snake species. Through workshops conducted for local rescuers, forest departments, and fire departments, Whitaker and his team have strived to minimise human-snake conflicts and ensure the safety of all involved.
Improving rural healthcare access
“Dealing with snakebites in rural areas is tough. Lack of healthcare means victims often don't make it to a hospital on time. With so many snake species, identifying the dangerous ones is tricky,” Whitaker mentions in one of his blogs. “People sometimes go to traditional healers, and transportation issues delay treatment. On top of that, different venom types and a lack of trust in healthcare workers make things even more complicated. Sadly, snakebite isn't a priority in many hospitals, and healthcare workers often need proper training,” he adds.
Whitaker and his team collaborate with regional, national, and international organisations, including US-based Global Snakebite Initiative (GSI) that aims to improve the quality, effectiveness, and accessibility of treatment options globally.
[caption id="attachment_49152" align="aligncenter" width="636"] Romulus Whitaker with tribals[/caption]
“We are also training ASHA workers and health staff to boost their confidence in administering antivenom (AV). Some hesitate due to the risk of allergic reactions from antivenoms. We are collaborating with researchers to develop better antivenoms, not only to reduce reactions but also to make it region-specific,” he mentions.
Recognising the under-reporting of snakebite incidents, Whitaker and his team are advocating for a snakebite registry and are involved in developing regional, state, and national strategies to address the problem comprehensively.
Developing friendship with snakes
Growing up in the countryside of northern New York State, Whitaker developed a fascination for snakes, in the way most children have a fondness for toys. Rather than discouraging his fascination, his mother actively supported his interest by even allowing him to bring snakes home, taking him to the Natural History Museum in NYC, and getting him books about snakes.
At the age of eight, in 1951, when Whitaker relocated from the USA to India with his mother Doris Norden, and stepfather Rama Chattopadhyaya, he was instantly captivated by the warmth of the people. He studied in Kodaikanal, where he cultivated a deep appreciation for the natural world through explorations in the forests of the Palni Hills.
[caption id="attachment_49153" align="aligncenter" width="679"] Romulus Whitaker with school kids[/caption]
In 1961 he went to the U.S. for higher education, and briefly served in the U.S. Merchant Navy before joining the Miami Serpentarium, where he met his mentor William Haast and gained expertise in venom collection. Whitaker's deep love for India compelled him to return in 1967.
Becoming central figure in snake and crocodile conservation
Upon his return, he was introduced to the Irula tribe, renowned for their snake-catching abilities. He discovered they were misusing these skills. “They were amazing at catching snakes, but sadly, they were misusing their skills in the snake-skin industry,” Whitaker says. This prompted him to establish a snake park for their welfare. His initiatives coincided with the government’s efforts to ban exploitative activities involving snakes.
My early days with snakes taught me we needed to change how people see them.
- Romulus Whitaker
In 1969, Whitaker established a snake park near Madras, employing Irulas as caretakers to alter their relationship with snakes. By 1971, with assistance from the chief conservator of forests, the park was relocated to the Guindy Deer Park in the city, attracting a million visitors in its inaugural year.
During the mid-1970s, he collaborated with his ex-wife, Zai Whitaker, to launch the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust near Mahabalipuram's Shore Temple - significant initiative in crocodile conservation and now a premier attraction in Chennai. Also known as the Centre for Herpetology, crocodiles are bred in captivity there with the purpose of releasing them into the wild.
For me, it wasn't just about saving the animals from the destruction we humans were causing in trying to get our resources; it was also about preserving nature's balance by protecting its habitat. Because caring for the environment and its animals benefits us as well.”
- Romulus Whitaker
Over the next seven decades, Whitaker developed deep interest in two of India's iconic reptiles, the gharial crocodile from the northern rivers and the king cobra from the southern rainforest.
Transforming snake hunters to snake protectors
Recognising the need to provide the Irula Tribe with sustainable livelihoods, Whitaker founded the Irula Snake-Catchers Cooperative in 1978. This cooperative transformed snake-catching into a humane practice, focusing solely on venom extraction, with released snakes returning to the wild. Today, the cooperative supplies 80% of India's snake venom for antivenom production, saving countless lives across the nation, while the Irula tribals are engaged in dignified livelihoods.
Man of many achievements
Deeply committed to wildlife, in 1986, at the age of 43, Whitaker obtained a B.Sc. in wildlife management from Pacific Western University. He was appointed as a wildlife consultant by the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization which led him to provide his expertise in Papua New Guinea, Mozambique, Malaysia, Bangladesh, and Indonesia. He also served as the vice-chairman of the Crocodile Specialist Group under the IUCN/Species Survival Commission, and led efforts to rescue the gharial from the verge of extinction.
[caption id="attachment_49155" align="aligncenter" width="748"] Romulus Whitaker during a talk[/caption]
“I am happiest out in the wild just watching turtles, snakes, crocs and other herps,” tells the herpetologist, conservationist, wildlife researcher, filmmaker and author whose life revolves around wildlife.
(October 20, 2021) It was the Fall of 2017 when a 19-year-old Akshay Ruparelia was studying hard for his A Levels in the UK. The Indian-origin teen had his eyes set on a university education at Oxford, one of UK’s most prestigious institutions. However, Akshay wasn’t your typical school-going teen. He was also calling the shots at his just over a year-old startup Doorsteps. The online real estate agency that had been disrupting a traditional, centuries-old industry was finding its moment in the sun. And so was Akshay. The company had just been valued at £12 million just 16 months after its launch and Akshay had become UK’s youngest millionaire. Today, five years later, Akshay may have moved on from Doorsteps, but he’s become a name to reckon with in the world of real estate and startups for his keen business acumen. In 2018, he was ranked sixth by The Sunday Times Rich List in Britain’s Millionaire Entrepreneurs Under 30, while Startups.co.uk included him in their list of 15 Young Entrepreneurs to Watch in 2018. By 2019, The Great British Entrepreneur Awards listed him in their 20 Most Exciting Entrepreneurs to Watch For and this year, he was included in Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe Technology
ong>, while Startups.co.uk included him in their list of 15 Young Entrepreneurs to Watch in 2018. By 2019, The Great British Entrepreneur Awards listed him in their 20 Most Exciting Entrepreneurs to Watch For and this year, he was included in Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe Technology list.
Turns out, this young Global Indian had always had an entrepreneurial streak.
Akshay was born in 1998 in Hemel Hempstead in a Gujarati family: both his parents are hearing impaired. His father Kaushik Ruparelia is a care worker, while his mother Renuka a teaching assistant and support worker for deaf children. His parents impairment meant that Akshay had begun shouldering responsibility from a young age along with his elder sister. When his family moved to Harrow, he attended Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet. The Indian-origin youngster had always had an entrepreneurial streak from a young age and would often sell sweets for a new PlayStation, sell colognes or start a new app. In an interview with Love Money he’d said, “I’ve always enjoyed the feeling of trading and working with new ideas, outside the framework of the school curriculum.”
Akshay was exposed to the real estate industry at a young age when his parents were looking to move the family home from Hempstead to Harrow. The experience exposed him to how real estate agencies functioned, the services they offered and the costs involved. By the time he was 17, he began to notice several gaps in the market and the exorbitant costs involved for the home buyer.
Starting small
That’s when he decided to launch Doorsteps, a disruptive new online real estate agency that drastically cut down agent fees and made selling and buying homes a whole lot easier. He’d borrowed £7,000 from relatives to start the website and would hire call centers to take client calls while he was at school. Once he’d get home from his classes, he’d begin returning those calls.
His first breakthrough came when his first client, a man from Sussex, asked Akshay to sell his house and a chunk of land next to it. “I had to pay my sister’s boyfriend 40 pounds to drive me to Sussex to take photographs of the house, as I hadn’t passed my driving test and didn’t have a car,” he told Hindustan Times in an interview. He was able to sell the property and land within three weeks and that set the ball rolling for this youngster.
Before long, he’d begun to expand his team and hire employees to aid his work. His model was based on hiring a network of self-employed mothers across the UK, who would show clients around the properties he’d listed. “Quite rightly people trust mums. Every mum who works for me will be honest and tell the truth. It is important. For the majority of people selling their home is the biggest financial transaction of their lives,” he told the Daily Mirror.
Breaking ground
Within 16 months of launching Doorsteps, the company became the 18th biggest estate agency in the UK. What worked in Akshay’s favor was his keen business acumen. He stuck to one office, worked with local property consultants and focused on customer service. Doorsteps allowed people to sell their property for a set fee (a fraction of the market rate) from the comfort of their homes.
His idea to set up a small business stemmed from his reading of Ryanair founder Michael O’Leary’s biography. “Mr O’Leary began by selling flights for just 4.99 pounds. His point was that if you can offer customers something at a price they can’t believe and you deliver what you say you will, you hook people in and your business will work,” he said. He also followed brands such as Uber and Amazon to learn disruptive business tactics.
In an interview with Forbes, Akshay said that he imbibed his work ethic from his family. “My parents’ work ethic is amazing. Dad was kicked out of Kenya with his family and moved to the UK. Being deaf (both Akshay’s parents and one of his sisters are deaf) made things even more difficult. But they worked very hard, saved, scrimped and became independent from their family. That’s where I get my work ethic from – not only from an imitation point of view and role modelling, but my desire to succeed was initially driven by the goal of changing their lives for the better.”
His business grew quickly under his leadership and in 2020 Doorsteps was valued at £18 million making it the third largest online estate agent and the 10th largest estate agent in the UK.
A bend in the road
Earlier this year, Akshay announced his decision to move on from Doorsteps following a strategic difference with his fellow director. In his statement, he’d said, “I am deeply motivated and passionate about the projects I will be moving onto, starting with AKR Growth Ventures. The purpose and mission of AKR Growth Ventures is to change lives by helping young founders, startups and charities disrupt out-of-date and out-of-touch business practices – through technology, organisational culture and exceptional performance.”
Incidentally, Akshay had been offered a place at Oxford University to study Economics and Mathematics back in 2017. At the time, he decided to forego the admission to focus on his business. However, last year, the youngster completed the 10ksb program by Oxford.
Giving Back
The youngster, who’s been making waves in the world of business, also actively works to give back to the community he lives and works in. Akshay became the ambassador for the Royal Association of Deaf People, a non-profit organization, in 2020. He is also on the board of The Prince’s Trust RISE young philanthropy campaign. Apart from that he is the ambassador of the Harrow United Deaf Club and supports the Step Up to Serve program by iwill Campaign.
(November 13, 2022) Over one billion Christians from across the globe were delighted when American filmmaker Dallas Jenkins announced that he would chronicle the journey of the Christ through his web series The Chosen. As more details started to come from the show's set, people murmured about an Indian-American cast in one of the most important roles in the series. But, despite all their doubts, the audience was absolutely mesmerised by actor Paras Patel, who portrayed the role of Saint Matthew, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. [caption id="attachment_31706" align="aligncenter" width="698"] Actor Paras Patel[/caption] The Global Indian has been a part of three major shows, including ABC Family’s 'Teen Spirit' and CBS Films' 'The Duff'. "Growing up, it was such a rare treat to see someone that looked like me on TV or in a movie, and I took it for granted that it would always be that way. As visibility for South Asians is increasing in mass media, there is still a long way to go, and I hope to inspire the next generation of South Asian artists to see a place for themselves in this industry," the actor shared during an interview with Voyage LA. The world's
m>'. "Growing up, it was such a rare treat to see someone that looked like me on TV or in a movie, and I took it for granted that it would always be that way. As visibility for South Asians is increasing in mass media, there is still a long way to go, and I hope to inspire the next generation of South Asian artists to see a place for themselves in this industry," the actor shared during an interview with Voyage LA.
The world's a stage
Belonging to a Gujarati family who immigrated to the USA several decades back, Paras Patel had, on numerous occasions, shared that he loved acting and performing for the crowd since he was a young kid. In love with Bollywood and its music, Paras even played games inspired by movies growing up. "As cliched as it sounds, I knew I wanted to act at a young age. I loved to perform whenever I could, whether it was in school plays, cultural community shows, or even family gatherings. During summer breaks, my brother and I would use a camcorder and make little skits and pretend we had our own TV show. I’ve played various fictitious roles, from a mad scientist to an angry chef! I remember when I was in 5th grade, I did a book report but turned it into a play and performed it in front of my classmates. It wasn’t a part of the assignment at all, but I just did it. It just came naturally to me," the actor told Voyage LA.
[caption id="attachment_31707" align="aligncenter" width="720"] A still from the show Teen Spirit[/caption]
After earning a degree in finance, Paras Patel started looking for job opportunities. however, the prospect of a career in numbers didn’t make him happy. And so, he started working on the sets of various productions in Atlanta, to get on-field experience, starting from one of the biggest cult-drama that aired on American television - The Vampire Diaries. All the money that he earned doing the background work on these productions went into his acting classes, getting headshots, and other career-related material.
[caption id="attachment_31709" align="aligncenter" width="544"] A still from the sets of The Chosen[/caption]
"Through a showcase from one of my classes, I met and signed with my first agent and then happened to book my first audition ever, a lead in Teen Spirit which was a feature film for Freeform. I continued to work on various productions in the south for another year, and then eventually moved to Los Angeles to further my career. Moving to LA was a whole new world, and I had to start over with building relationships and enrolling in more training to strengthen my craft… but I haven’t looked back since," he said.
The Chosen one
While he had to face several hurdles during his initial days of struggle in LA, the actor was soon spotted by producers and started working on minor roles in various movies and TV shows. Although a few people didn't approve of his career choices, Paras was determined to make it big in the entertainment industry.
"In Indian culture, you are expected to take a more traditional career path, so it was a bit of an eye-opener for my loved ones when I went from pursuing a career in finance to acting. I am grateful that my parents have always been supportive, but I’ve had some extended family members question my career path and express doubt in my future as an actor," Paras Patel shared during the interview, adding, "This line of work also comes with countless rejections, fear that you’re wasting your time, and tons of self-doubt. You can be a great actor but never get a chance to work. This business has a certain degree of luck involved. I’ve got parts that have been edited out numerous times due to factors out of my control."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-veXCXOzPE4
Not one to give up easily, Paras Patel was persistent and eventually landed the role of Matthew in The Chosen after several auditions. "I portray a historical figure. Season 1 has amassed over 35 million views globally in a span of a few months! I am incredibly thankful and grateful to the fans of the show, whose numerous messages of support and appreciation of my work have impacted me profoundly," the actor shared.
[caption id="attachment_31708" align="aligncenter" width="593"] A still from the sets of The Chosen[/caption]
Even though much is known about the character he played, Paras Patel admitted that he was surprised to see the character written in a way that had never been done onscreen before. "It was the character description depicting Matthew as on the autism spectrum and the writing that initially drew me to the project," the actor shared during a podcast, adding, "The impact the show has had on our audience and having underrepresented communities feel like they are finally getting the representation and acceptance they deserve on a mainstream show keeps my heart full."
An actor who loves challenging roles, Paras Patel is looking to collaborate with several other artists in the coming years. "I think what sets me apart as an actor is that I am always working on my craft to continue to get better. I am a hard worker and am always looking to improve. I also love to collaborate and meet others, as I believe there are enough seats at the table in this business and we should all support one another," shared the actor.
(June 20, 2023) Growing up in a small farming community in Raipur, life was tough for Dr Sanjaya Rajaram and his family. Having seen stark poverty in central India's rural heartlands, Rajaram had seen the ugliness of stark poverty. It led him to dedicate his life improving the lives of smallholder farmers around the world. The World Food Prize in 2014 was an acknowledgement of decades of scientific work - Dr Sanjaya Rajaram, who served for over 33 years at the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) in Mexico, developed more than 480 wheat varieties, leading to an increase of over 200 million tons in worldwide wheat production. Humble beginnings Rajaram was born in 1943 in Raipur, the same year, incidentally, that the CIMMYT was founded in El Batan in Southern Central Mexico, with its nascent programme headed by the legendary Norman Borlaug, known as the father of the Green Revolution. Borlaug's work would bring him to India to spread the word, resulting the Green Revolution led by MS Swaminathan, with whom Rajaram would also work. Rajaram studied genetics and plant breeding at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute in New Delhi, during which time he worked with MS Swaminathan.
in Southern Central Mexico, with its nascent programme headed by the legendary Norman Borlaug, known as the father of the Green Revolution. Borlaug's work would bring him to India to spread the word, resulting the Green Revolution led by MS Swaminathan, with whom Rajaram would also work. Rajaram studied genetics and plant breeding at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute in New Delhi, during which time he worked with MS Swaminathan. Years later, Swaminathan would also be on the World Food Prize (instituted by the Nobel Peace Prize) jury that selected Rajaram as the 2014 winner.
[caption id="attachment_32639" align="aligncenter" width="585"] Dr Sanjaya Rajaram receives the World Food Prize. Photo: www.worldfoodprize.org[/caption]
"He is known for his genuine concern for farming and farmers," Swaminathan said at the time, about Rajaram. "He is a worthy successor to the legacy of Norman Borlaug and was selected for his outstanding work in the improvement of wheat crop and wheat production in the world."
Rajaram, not always given to talking about his childhood, allowed himself a moment of reminiscence at the World Food Prize acceptance speech 2014. "My childhood wasn't easy," he remarked. "My family made a meagre living growing maize, rice, wheat, sugarcane and millets. There were a few goats, cows and buffaloes as well." Rajaram's parents, he says, "valued education and made many sacrifices" to send him to school. "Seeing people live in poverty ignited a passion in me to dedicate my life to work that makes a real difference." The newly-independent India in which Rajaram grew up was a tough place - at the time, 96 percent of rural children lacked basic schooling. "I was in the fortunate four percent," Rajaram said. As acknowledgement of this, Rajaram dedicated a part of his $250,000 prize money to an educational institute in India.
Finding Norman Borlaug
Rajaram graduated with a BSc in agriculture from the University of Gorakhpur, which played a leading role at the time in the Green Revolution. He followed it up with an MSc in genetics and plant breeding from IARI and then moved to Australia, where he earned a PhD from the University of Sydney. A prolific researcher through his life, Rajaram had more than 400 research publications and had mentored hundreds of scientists around the world until his passing in 2021.
In 1969, after his PhD, Rajaram moved to Mexico to join CIMMYT, headed still by the legendary Norman Borlaugh, who would become one of the driving forces behind Rajaram's own work. "It was a few years after the great events of the Green Revolution. Despite the food security gains, there was no time for complacency. There were mountains to climb and the fight against hunger has not yet been won. The fight for food and nutrition security had not even begun."
Borlaug was quick to spot potential in the young man, who would spend his days wandering through small wheat farms, clad in baggy jeans and a sweatshirt, usually. Eventually, Rajaram went on to take over as the director of wheat research at CIMMYT and also as direct of ICARDA's biodiversity and integrated gene management programme. He is also the owner and director of R&D for Resource Seed Mexicana, which promotes wheat varietes in Mexico, India, Egypt and Australia. "working for the poor and the hungry was the trademark of Rajaram. Borlaug was the main spirit of Rajaram's work," said G. Venkataramani, Rajaram's biographer and author of 'Mr Golden Grain, the Life and Work of the Maharaja of Wheat'.
Building worldwide food security
Rajaram was an active proponent of the private and public sectors working together - it is the only way, he believed, to tackle the enormity of the task at hand. "Feeding over nine billion people by 2050 will not be a trivial task. Sustainably increasing wheat production will have crucial impact on livelihoods and food security. For wheat alone, we will need to grow sixty percent more grain than now, on the same amount of land, while trying to use fewer nutrients, less water and labour," Rajaram explained. "However, the staff of life for 1.2 billion people is one of the lowest-funded crops in terms of research." It's a daunting prospect, even after the robust successes of the Green Revolution.
Dr Rajaram is credited with developing 58 percent of all the wheat varieties that exist today, according to his biography. He is best known for his contributions to the development of two high-yield wheat cultivars - Kauz and Attila. These produce at least 15% higher yield than other types, holding more grains on each stalk. They are cultivated across over 40 million hectares worldwide. The process involved winter and spring wheat gene pools, shuttle breeding and mega environment testing.
Promoting young scientists
President Kovind presents Padma Bhushan to Dr Sanjaya Rajaram (Posthumous) for Science & Engineering . He developed 490+ high-yielding and disease-resistant wheat varieties grown in 51 countries. This has increased global wheat production by more than 200+ million tons. pic.twitter.com/fieCxk6V9Q
Working on the field and truly understanding the problems of farmers, Rajaram believed, was critical to promoting new ideas and technology. This is a nod to Borlaug's legacy, which Rajaram dedicated himself to building. "Borlaug and I promoted the international community by connecting scientists across the world. Applied training should be the standard for any scientific institution," said the Global Indian. The way forward, he always said, was unity among the private and public sectors, free sharing of knowledge and seeds and training young scientists on the ground. "There can be no permanent progress in the battle for food and nutritional security until all the partners unite," he remarked.
Dr Sanjaya Rajaram is also the winner of the Pravasi Bhartiya Samman, the highest civilian honour given by the Indian government to Indians abroad. He also received the Padma Shri in 2001 and the Padma Bhushan posthumously in 2022.
The co-founders of Infosys[/caption]
Romulus Whitaker[/caption]
Romulus Whitaker[/caption]
Romulus Whitaker with tribals[/caption]
Romulus Whitaker with school kids[/caption]
Romulus Whitaker[/caption]
Romulus Whitaker during a talk[/caption]
A still from the show Teen Spirit[/caption]
A still from the sets of The Chosen[/caption]
A still from the sets of The Chosen[/caption]
Dr Sanjaya Rajaram receives the World Food Prize. Photo: 
Sanjaya Rajaram in Izmir, Turkey in 2014. Credit: