Global IndianstoryMahesh Sriram: The Hyderabad boy who landed a role in ‘Barbie’

Mahesh Sriram: The Hyderabad boy who landed a role in ‘Barbie’

Written by: Mallik Thatipalli

(July 31, 2023) His latest film credits include the recent blockbuster Barbie and Disney’s Haunted Mansion. For, a boy from Hyderabad, to make his mark in the holy grail of Hollywood, it has been one interesting ride for actor and model Mahesh Sriram.

Actor | Mahesh Sriram | Global Indian

The actor notes, “The joy of bringing characters to life and leaving a positive impact on people’s lives through my work has made every difficulty worthwhile. I am incredibly grateful for the journey I’ve undertaken in the movies.” The actor’s career path started quite early, during his college years when fashion photographers noticed him. He debuted as a print magazine model and was part of several advertising campaigns and fashion shoots. He then moved to Hollywood where he is known for his roles in movies including Day 5, Ohryis Project, and Hang Up.

The Wonder Years

Growing up in Hyderabad, Mahesh’s childhood was filled with curiosity and passion for the arts. He had a deep interest in acting and modeling and started his journey in the entertainment industry in Tollywood, the Telugu film industry in Hyderabad. “It was an exciting and challenging time, but it laid the foundation for my future endeavors in the world of entertainment,” the actor recalls.

Entering the world of movies was a dream that the actor held close to his heart from a very young age. “I was captivated by the magic of storytelling and the ability of films to transport audiences to different worlds and evoke emotions.” he states and adds, “The fascination of portraying diverse characters and connecting with people on a deep emotional level through my performances inspired me greatly.

Actor | Mahesh Sriram | Global Indian

However, the path to pursuing his passion was not without its difficulties. Breaking into the entertainment industry, especially on an international level, requires determination and resilience. The competition is intense, and facing rejection is part of the journey. However, Mahesh is nothing but persistent. “I firmly believe that challenges are just opportunities for growth and use them as stepping stones to improve my skills and refine my craft.” the actor shares.

Adapting to different cultures, languages, and work environments as an international actor presented its own set of challenges. But Mahesh embraced the learning process, as it allowed him to gain valuable experiences and broaden his horizons as both an individual and a performer. Despite the ups and downs, the love for storytelling and the desire to connect with audiences around the world have held the actor in good stead.

Making his mark

Mahesh started as a model and the transition to movies happened gradually leading to roles in commercials and eventually in Hollywood movies. “While both professions involve the camera, acting allows for a deeper exploration of characters and emotions, making it a more immersive and challenging experience compared to modeling.” the actor shares.

The actor is chuffed to get a chance to work with Hollywood studios like Barbie by Warner Brothers and Haunted Mansion by Disney. The actor shares, “Being a part of projects alongside well-known Hollywood stars was a true testament to the hard work and dedication I’ve put into my craft. Those moments motivated me to continue pushing myself to new heights. They serve as a constant reminder of how far I’ve come and the incredible opportunities that lie ahead in my journey as an actor in the world of movies.”

Actor | Mahesh Sriram | Global Indian

Working in Hollywood can be a competitive and unpredictable journey, but the actor takes everything in his stride. “Breaking into Hollywood as an actor from Asia was indeed challenging,” the actor confesses before adding, “Regardless of where you come from, the journey is tough until you make it. Being from a different country required me to put in extra effort to understand the industry. However, Hollywood appreciates professionalism and talent, and I always give my best in every production.”

Hyderabad to Hollywood

Asian actors are usually pigeonholed in the West as exotic and restricted to playing certain characters. The actor nods and ponders before answering, “It’s true that typecasting can be a concern for Asian actors in the West. However, the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry, particularly with the rise of OTT platforms and global cinemas, has brought about positive changes. Audiences and directors are now able to see Asian actors in more pivotal and diverse roles, moving away from traditional typecasting and limitations.”

Actor | Mahesh Sriram | Global Indian

Mahesh aims to continue pushing boundaries and taking on roles that challenge perceptions and showcase the depth and range of Asian actors. He says, “By choosing roles that resonate with me and staying true to my passion for acting, I hope to contribute to changing the narrative and paving the way for more opportunities for Asian actors in the industry.” By embracing the changing dynamics of the entertainment world, the actor is breaking stereotypes with his work and representing the diversity and talent of Asian actors on the global stage.

Unfolding narrative

Each opportunity allows the actor to push boundaries and be the best version of the performer he can be. He adds, “Every project I undertake becomes a high point in my career as I embrace the challenge and strive to learn and grow from each experience.” He wants to explore his craft further by taking on interesting and challenging roles. “Each new project presents a fresh chance to showcase my skills and contribute to the world of entertainment. I’m eager to continue my journey in the industry, taking on new challenges, and delivering performances that leave a lasting impact on audiences worldwide,” the actor explains.

Actor | Mahesh Sriram | Global Indian

Given his background in India and proficiency in multiple languages, Mahesh is open to working in Tollywood and Bollywood projects. The actor signs off saying. “Acting in Indian films has always been close to my heart, and I cherish the rich storytelling and diverse characters that these industries offer. As I continue to grow as an actor, I eagerly look forward to bringing my skills and experiences to Indian cinema and contributing to meaningful and entertaining projects. So, yes, you can expect to see me in some exciting Indian films in the future!”

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Ellen Goldberg

June 20, 2024 2:34 am

Wonderful article, Mahesh. You have worked hard and have your skills over time. The best is yet to come.

Published on 31, Jul 2023

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Mitu Bhowmick Lange: Bringing Indian cinema to Australia’s big screens

(November 30, 2024) When Mitu Bhowmick Lange first arrived in Melbourne in 2002, she found herself in a city that couldn’t have been more different from Mumbai, where she had built a thriving career in television and film. Melbourne, despite the multicultural vibe, felt quieter, slower and unfamiliar. As a passionate cinema lover, she missed the energy of India’s entertainment industry and the rich, dynamic stories that reflected her homeland. Fast forward two decades and Mitu has transformed this cultural distance into a powerful bridge. She is the founder of Mind Blowing Films (MBF), the leading distributor of Indian films across Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji, and the director of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), the largest South Asian film festival in the Southern Hemisphere. [caption id="attachment_60866" align="aligncenter" width="585"] Mitu Bhowmick Lange[/caption] Under her leadership, Indian cinema has become a prominent part of Australia’s mainstream entertainment. What once played in small community centres has now made its way to major multiplexes, where Bollywood hits and regional films attract audiences from the Indian diaspora and curious locals alike. Her work has also strengthened collaborations between Indian and Australian filmmakers, establishing Melbourne as a key center for cross-cultural storytelling. "You

aspora and curious locals alike. Her work has also strengthened collaborations between Indian and Australian filmmakers, establishing Melbourne as a key center for cross-cultural storytelling. "You will find not just Hindi films but Tamil, Punjabi, and Telugu films being screened. I feel very proud about the kind of growth the market has witnessed since we started," the Global Indian said.

Over the years, her work has earned widespread recognition, including the Jill Robb Screen Leadership Award and the prestigious Order of Australia for her contributions to Australian cinema. But her journey, like any film narrative, began with challenges, determination, and a deep passion for storytelling.

From Mumbai to Melbourne: A New Beginning

Originally from Kolkata, she finished her graduation from Delhi University before studying film at St Xavier's College in Mumbai. Soon she kickstarted her journey in film and television by producing and directing shows for BBC News, Zee TV and Star Plus, and worked on the award-winning documentary Watch Without Prejudice, which UNICEF India presented to highlight the impact of violence on Kashmiri children.

But she had to bid her thriving career a goodbye when she followed her husband to Melbourne "resentfully". "In India, I had a good job and I was part of the media and television world. In Melbourne, I didn’t have anything going on. Slowly, I tried to create my own little world here." She joined a media and advertising company and spotted an opportunity others had overlooked: the untapped potential of Indian cinema in Australia. At the time, Australian companies were primarily focused on American productions, and Bollywood was barely on the radar. "I somehow managed to convince my very Australian boss that we should look at India as well," she said in an interview. The idea was bold, and it paved the way for what would become her life's work.

Salaam Namaste: The Turning Point

The breakthrough came in 2005 with the Bollywood romantic comedy Salaam Namaste, which became the first Indian film shot entirely overseas. As an in-line producer for the project, Mitu worked closely with Yash Raj Films, a collaboration that laid the groundwork for her future ventures.

The film was a massive success. Beyond box office numbers, it showcased Melbourne as a vibrant, multicultural city, leading to a 17 percent increase in tourism from India to Victoria. “Salaam Namaste went on to create so much awareness for Melbourne in India," Mitu said, adding, "There was a hike in tourism, with students coming to study here."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFKteKPVU5E

The success of Salaam Namaste was only the beginning. Mitu realised there was a growing appetite for Indian films among Australia’s South Asian diaspora. But at the time, these films were screened in makeshift venues like community halls and Chinatown cinemas. “I remember sitting in these makeshift cinemas, and in the middle of the screening, the projector stopped working. When the reel was changed, it was a completely different film!”

The Rise of Mind Blowing Films

Determined to change this, she founded Mind Blowing Films (MBF) in 2009, a distribution company dedicated to bringing Indian cinema to mainstream Australian audiences. The early days weren’t easy. Australian exhibitors were wary of working with Indian distributors, citing past difficulties. But Mitu persisted, earning their trust and opening doors for Bollywood and regional films.

Today, Mind Blowing Films is the leading distributor of Indian cinema in Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji, releasing over 40 films a year. From Hindi blockbusters to Tamil, Telugu, and Punjabi hits, MBF has helped make Indian films a staple in Australian multiplexes. With the Indian diaspora growing rapidly in Australia, now numbering over 700,000, the love for Indian cinema has remained strong, serving as a cultural bridge for many to stay connected to their roots. By bringing Bollywood hits and regional films to Australian theatres, she has made it easier for the diaspora to enjoy the stories they love.

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne

Mitu’s vision for Indian cinema didn’t stop with distribution. In 2010, she launched the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), the largest South Asian film festival in the Southern Hemisphere. Supported by the Victorian Government since 2012, the festival has become a cultural institution, showcasing the best of Bollywood, regional films, and independent cinema.

[caption id="attachment_60868" align="aligncenter" width="573"] Mitu Bhowmick | Global Indian Mitu Bhowmick with Shah Rukh Khan[/caption]

IFFM is more than just a celebration of Indian films; it’s a platform for diverse storytelling. From Tamil and Telugu films to hard-hitting documentaries, the festival represents the vast spectrum of South Asian cinema. Over the years, it has brought stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Vidya Balan, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kangana Ranaut to Melbourne, attracting audiences from all walks of life.

“Often, we are only as inclusive within our comfort zones,” Mitu says. “Screen is so important for bridging prejudices. You can’t be what you can’t see, and this has driven my work.”

In 2019, Mitu launched My Melbourne, an initiative that pairs Indian filmmakers with Australian writers to create films exploring race, gender, disability, and sexuality. The project is set to premiere at the 2024 IFFM, further cementing the festival’s role as a platform for underrepresented voices.

Beyond Cinema: Championing Social Impact

Mitu’s work isn’t limited to entertainment. She’s deeply committed to using cinema as a tool for social change. In 2016, she produced the award-winning documentary Raising the Bar, which followed six individuals with Down Syndrome from India and Australia as they attended the World Down Syndrome Congress in Chennai.

Her passion for education led to Educate the Educators, a program launched in collaboration with La Trobe University and Blue Bells International School in New Delhi. The initiative equips teachers with the skills needed to work with children with special needs.

Recognition and Legacy

Over the years, Mitu’s contributions have earned her widespread recognition. In 2017, she became the first Indian to receive the Jill Robb Screen Leadership Award. A year later, she was appointed to the board of Film Victoria, another first for an Indian in Australia.

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In 2023, she was awarded the Order of Australia, an honour that she describes as deeply meaningful. “It’s a recognition for all the hard work, especially for anyone who has come to Australia and calls the country a home now. You have to work and try to find a sense of belonging, and when you receive such recognition, you feel complete,” she says.

A Vision for the Future

Mitu’s journey is far from over. With plans to produce collaborative Australian-Indian films, she continues to push boundaries and foster creative partnerships. “As the world is getting smaller, audiences are becoming more global,” she says. “Diverse creative expression across cinema and the arts is important.”

Mitu Bhowmick Lange | Global Indian

From her early struggles in Melbourne to her role as a cultural ambassador for Indian cinema, Mitu Bhowmick Lange has shown how the power of storytelling can bridge worlds. Through Mind Blowing Films and IFFM, she has not only transformed how Indian cinema is experienced in Australia but has also created a legacy of inclusion, diversity, and connection.

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Chef Alfred Prasad: Introducing Londoners to authentic Indian food

(July 12, 2023) As the world was drawing the curtains on the 20th century, a young chef with a handsome hands-on experience from India landed in UK to explore the London food circuit. To his dismay, what the cultural melting point was sorely missing was authentic Indian food. There were many a restaurant and pubs offering diners chicken tikka masala, but what these London eateries lacked was genuine flavours and diversity. It was then that this chef decided to introduce Britishers to Indian cuisine in a way that no one else had until then. Meet Alfred Prasad, the chef who helped revolutionise Indian food in the UK. Prasad's initiation into cooking happened early on in his life, when he'd watch his mother whip up delicacies in the family kitchen. This exposure to authentic Indian cooking held him in good stead, as years later, he went on to become the youngest Indian chef to win a Michelin star. [caption id="attachment_41468" align="aligncenter" width="731"] Michelin-starred chef Alfred Prasad[/caption] From home kitchen to five-star chef Born in Wardha, Maharashtra to a Tamil Brahmin father and an Anglo-Indian mother, Prasad grew up in a household where his mother insisted that everyone should help in the

From home kitchen to five-star chef

Born in Wardha, Maharashtra to a Tamil Brahmin father and an Anglo-Indian mother, Prasad grew up in a household where his mother insisted that everyone should help in the kitchen. At a young age, Prasad fell in love with the aromas wafting out of his family kitchen. With vegetarian cooking being a central part of his paternal family, Prasad would spend hours in his vegetable garden delicately tending to the ingredients before presenting them on the dinner table. His mother, on the other hand, had great skill in preparing meat and Prasad would join her at every opportunity to help with the preparation.

If his parents' passion for cooking acted as the perfect catalyst in making Prasad don the apron, his exposure to Indian cuisines during his extensive travels around the subcontinent cemented his decision to become a chef. Since his father was an orthopedic surgeon with The Leprosy Mission, Prasad's family would often travel the length and breadth of the country. It was during these formative years that he was exposed to the wealth of regional Indian cuisines and techniques which he further explored during his training and career.

Chef Alfred Prasad | Global Indian

Seeing his passion for food, his mother prompted him to pursue a hotel management course, something he is forever grateful for. It was during his training at Chennai's Institute of Hotel Management that he was completely hooked to the science of cooking. Upon his graduation in 1993, he was handpicked to undergo an advanced chef training during which he worked at two of India's iconic restaurants - Bukhara at Maurya Sheraton in Delhi and Dakshin at Park Sheraton (now Crowne Plaza) in Chennai.

Introducing Indian food in the UK

Over the next six years, Prasad developed a deep appreciation for India's multicultural and multi-dimensional cuisines. While he enjoyed his time honing his craft in India, he realised that the scope for hospitality was limited to just five-star hotels. To expand his horizons as a chef, he moved to London in 1999 and joined Tamarind of Mayfair as a sous chef in 2001, only to become the Executive Chef within a year.

When Prasad set foot in London in the early 2000s, Indian cuisine was still in the nascent stages with the majority of the restaurants being owned by Bangladeshi entrepreneurs who altered the flavours to suit the British palate. Back then, Indian food in London lacked authenticity, and Prasad took it upon himself to introduce Londoners to truly genuine Indian flavours and cooking techniques at Tamarind. "I quickly realised that Indian food in London is a bastardised version of what we know as Indian food. This was because most migrants opened Indian restaurants there out of desperation. I give them the credit for popularising the flavours of the subcontinent. Even if they could not do justice to the cuisine, at some level, they introduced new flavours to the British palate, making it easier for chefs such as myself to achieve accolades and glory," he told Sunday Guardian.

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With signature dishes like the slow-cooked dal makhani, wild mushroom pulao, and roasted rack of lamb that Prasad made Londoners fall slowly but surely in love with Indian food. He'd opened their eyes to the possibilities and varieties food from the subcontinent held. Within a year of his inclusion into Tamarind, he was promoted to the restaurant group's director of cuisine, and was in charge of four venues - Tamarind, Imli Street, and Zaika in London, as well as Tamarind of London in California. That same year, the then 29-year-old Prasad was awarded a Michelin star, making him the youngest Indian chef to achieve the feat. He found his footing in the culinary world map by retaining this accolade at Tamarind for 12 years. "It’s one of the biggest achievements a chef can have. I wanted to tell people in the UK that Indian food is just not the tandoori chicken or murgh makhni, there is a lot more. And I am pleased that people have now discovered regional cuisines," he said in an interview.

Revolutionising Indian food

Having worked in the food and hospitality sector in the UK for more than a decade, Prasad offered a highly original take on British notions of traditional Indian food by balancing creativity with authenticity. He believes that India has a rich food heritage, and he has been trying to inculcate a lot of it in his kitchen. "I cannot think of any other country that has had a culinary evolution like ours. Right from the ancient food science of Ayurveda, the knowledge of using food as medicine to the many influences we have had by trade or conquest and the many micro cuisines we have — it is truly special. Although the UK is not blessed with a rich culinary legacy, London is now one of the food capitals of the world, being a melting pot of cuisines and cultures from all across the globe. The UK doesn’t grow much in terms of agricultural produce but it sources from all over the world, all year round. So the access to produce and ingredients from any part of the world is at our disposal, which is a huge asset for a chef," he said in an interview.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwtLoqDFpO8

Considered one of the pioneers of modern Indian food revolution in London, Prasad returned to India in 2018 to establish his place in the hospitality industry back home with Oberoi's Omya in the capital, and has been satiating the palates of Delhiites with his menu that's rich in taste, texture, and flavour.

Giving back

In 2016, this Global Indian joined hands with The Akshaya Patra Foundation when he became its Brand Ambassador to raise money for the NGO whose mission is to eliminate classroom hunger in India. He helped the foundation in creating recipes that has culminated in healthy vegetarian meals that are good for kids' attention spans. " it is a free meal scheme to children of really backward communities in free government schools. In many cases, what brings the kids to school is the fact that they get that square meal. These families operate what is commonly known as rotational hunger. One person in the family goes hungry every day because there is only so much food that goes around. So, the fact that the kids stay in school for that meal, the by-product is education and the chance to come out of the poverty cycle. It’s the reason they stay at school, the reason they have left with an education, qualifications and able to come out of the cycle of poverty that their parents or grandparents might have been in. [Looking at the] bigger picture, the benefit is exponential. It’s not just providing food," he added.

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Shweta Pahuja: Popularising Indian snacks in Germany through Just Nosh

(April 6, 2024) In the serene fields of Bihar, the journey of the fox nut, also known as makhana, unfolds like a dance between tradition and innovation. Each year from September, the skilled harvesters begin wading through the tranquil waters of the region's marshlands, delicately plucking the mature lotus seeds from the blooms. Once harvested, the fox nuts are carefully sun-dried on bamboo mats and then each delicate shell is meticulously hand peeled revealing the white kernels within. This superfood - which is a good source of protein and fiber along with micronutrients - has become a favourite among health-conscious people not just in India but in Germany too, thanks to the efforts of entrepreneur Shweta Pahuja, the founder of Just Nosh. "I bring snacks with Indian influence to Germany. Being a snack lover, it inspired me to bring a snack with a purpose and good nutrition to the European market." Fox nuts or makhana have been a part of Indian household kitchens for decades now. She remembers her mom sauteing makhana on the pan for her during her growing-up days. That's how integral it has been to her diet and food habits and she is glad that with more

remembers her mom sauteing makhana on the pan for her during her growing-up days. That's how integral it has been to her diet and food habits and she is glad that with more people becoming health conscious, it is found at almost every grocery store. So, when she moved to Berlin with her packets of makhana, her friends in Berlin instantly fell in love with the superfood. This paved the way for her entrepreneurial journey. "The entrepreneur in me thought - why not introduce these nutritious snacks to Germany! This thought led me to find Just Nosh. We aim to provide everyone with a healthy snacking experience with our range of delicious, healthy snacks rooted in nature and culture," the Global Indian said.

Being someone with a sensitive stomach, she launched a company that attributes free of allergens which can be enjoyed by anyone who has trouble finding a product. "Just Nosh brings healthy, vegan snacks with an Indian influence that is truly good for you. We introduce lotus seeds that are an all-time favourite in India," she added.

Bringing healthy snack to Europe

Originally from Mumbai, Shweta moved to Germany in 2016 for love. She met her husband while studying, and marriage brought her to Berlin. Coming from an entrepreneurial family - her dad owned a company in the jewellery business, and she always wanted to start her own company. Having worked in a startup in the beverage industry, she had a fair idea of how things worked. When she moved to Berlin, she brought with her a bag full of Indian snacks - something that her new friends in Berlin gorged on. This led to the formation of Just Nosh in 2020. "A healthy and delicious diet is very important to me personally and I am firmly convinced that this is both possible together. India offers rich and, above all, healthy options, and I'm sure that with the right brand, many Indian snacks can be a hit in Europe," she said in an interview.

However, starting a business in the midst of the pandemic came with its set of challenges. "The prices for shipping from India were very high, which ultimately affected the profit margin. In addition, I neither had the opportunity to meet my producer in person nor was I able to carry out product tests in Berlin," she revealed adding that the first batch that was shipped to Germany was tasted by her parents for flavours.

[caption id="attachment_50556" align="aligncenter" width="539"] Just Nosh[/caption]

Making fox nuts mainstream

Explaining the process of harvesting lotus seeds found in ponds and rivers in eastern India, she elaborated that farmers harvest the seeds once a year. "They collect the seeds from the bottom of the pond, and after the farmers are done popping the seeds, they are then taken to the factories where the producers roast and season the makhana. Once they are seasoned and packed, they are sent to Germany." For Shweta,

Just Nosh, which is currently available in three flavours - one sweet and two savoury - is a completely Indian brand that's shifting the snack market in Europe. Since the snack shelves in supermarkets are just full of potato chips, Shweta wanted to make new snacks known in Germany by offering a better alternative. "That's why we chose the Lotus Pops as our first snack. They are a delicious and healthy snack hit in India and are now available in Germany for the first time. This superfood consists exclusively of plant-based ingredients, contains no sugar or additives, and is 100 percent naturally delicious," she said. Since production takes place entirely in India, Just Nosh also makes a social contribution to the people there.

Shweta Pahuja | Global Indian

"We support the communities in India, the products are produced in India - it's a way for me to give back to my country."

Shweta, who loves spending time with her family, exercising, and watching movies, believes that starting a new venture can be exhausting but it is worth it. Belting out advice to forthcoming entrepreneurs, she said, "Continue towards your goals, be persistent. It's not about the destination but the journey. It will have many hurdles but don't give up because you will see light at the end of the tunnel."

Having become a market fit in Germany, Just Nosh is now planning to expand and bring in more snacks with good nutritional value and quality with Indian backgrounds. "It is important for us to bring the Indian culture in which I grew up closer to the people of Europe."

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An altruistic ‘liver’y: Dr Tom Cherian enhances liver care across India

(February 17, 2022) He is known for performing the first 10 liver transplants in Andhra Pradesh. This dedicated doctor is also a charitable powerhouse. Giving liver care state-of-the-art facilities across India is an aspiration he is slowly achieving. The enterprising Dr Tom Cherian, with a 30-year career, has 20 exhaustive years as a liver transplantation specialist. With many firsts to his credit, the doctor was also behind the first successful split liver transplant in AP too. Called a “Legend in Surgery” by a national newspaper, Dr Cherian has so far published 84 papers, done 100 international presentations, and has many awards and grants to his name. [caption id="attachment_20045" align="alignnone" width="1080"] Dr Cherian has performed 675 liver transplants in India and the UK.[/caption] He continued his parent’s legacy Founder, MD, South Asian Liver Institute, Hyderabad, the Hippocrates oath is at the heart of his long and brilliant career. The doctor, who was in the UK for 17 years, decided to come back (2014), and serve the country. A decision that was tough to make. UK saw him at the crux of cutting-edge medical advances. Twelve years on basic and specialist surgical work with the all-important liver transplantation specialty at Queen Elizabeth

was tough to make. UK saw him at the crux of cutting-edge medical advances. Twelve years on basic and specialist surgical work with the all-important liver transplantation specialty at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, King’s College Hospital came next, Europe’s best liver transplant centre.

The happily married surgeon with a stellar career was happy to see his children study in the best London schools. He himself studied at Baldwin Boy’s High School, then Christ College (in Bengaluru).

The boy, who studied at King's College London later, has always wanted to emulate his father. That responsibility to take forward his cardiac surgeon Padma Bhushan awardee father’s legacy and his pediatrician mother was very important. His parents, who passed away, still guide him on his altruistic initiatives. August shoes to fill, Dr Cherian’s father, Dr Jacob Cherian won the Padma Bhushan for charitable work in Tamil Nadu. “After him, I am the president of the charitable missionary society that serves without making a penny. There are good people who take care of day-to-day functioning of all - an engineering college, a polytechnic, two nursing colleges, an arts college, and two schools, catering to over 6,000 students. There is also a 275-bed hospital,” he informs in an interview with Global Indian.

Leading by example

The magnanimous personality of his father finds life in the doctor’s philosophy. Dr Cherian now nurtures the dream of ushering in the most advanced and cheaper liver care facilities across India. “It is ridiculous that out of 29 states, only seven states can boast of liver transplantation facilities. India has rudimentary liver care systems. In cardiology, we are one of the best but in liver care, we are worst. There is a great need for good quality liver care services. I am hoping to achieve this through the South Asian Liver Institute. If you can have an airport everywhere why not liver transplantation services?” he questions.

“Ever since childhood, I wanted to be a surgeon,” smiles the good doctor, who has performed 675 liver transplants, 400 in the UK and 275 in India. To his credit are also over 250 complex liver cancer resections. His first stint in India was as head of liver transplantation and liver surgeries at Global Hospital, Hyderabad. Two years on, he became national director of liver surgery and transplantation, Care Group.

[caption id="attachment_20046" align="alignnone" width="1080"] Dr Tom Cherian | liver transplant | state of the art healthcare Highly acclaimed for his work, Dr Cherian was named the 'Legend in Liver Transplant Surgery'[/caption]

Liver care for charity

Charitable initiatives are ingrained in him, and this led him to do his first liver transplants at Hyderabad’s prestigious government hospitals - Osmania Medical College, Nizam’s Institute of Medical Science, and GB Pant Hospital for free; serving the lowest strata for five years at a stretch. “At Nizam’s, I slowly trained people, and am now a professor there,” he mentions.

Playing a pivotal role in making liver surgery available to the common man across India, 13 liver clinics were started as specialist liver transplantation facilities were non-existent – at Siliguri, Guwahati, Bhubaneshwar, etc. “Eastern India has very poor liver care facilities,” he observes. Creating a network for appropriate medical guidance, and cost-effective treatment has been his sole objective.

“What worries me is that even when I am using the latest techniques used in hospitals like Kings College London, hundreds and thousands of people are dying as they are unaware of the distinct options of care available,” he explains. Cost-effectiveness is also a huge challenge, something he tackled on a war footing. “I brought down liver transplantation costs from Rs 30 lakh to Rs 21 lakh at the Care Group. At South Asian Liver Institute, we have designed treatment in such a manner that room costs are saved. We do as few hospital admissions as possible, and let patients go back after surgery,” says Dr Cherian.

The institute has been in partnerships with the Wockhardt Group and Manipal Group, who have in turn outsourced liver care services for entire Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, respectively. Apart from these, there are associations with other medical chains to help penetrate markets in northern Karnataka and Telangana now.

[caption id="attachment_20044" align="alignnone" width="3744"] Dr Tom Cherian | liver transplant | state of the art healthcare Dr Cherian with his family[/caption]

Having a doctor as his wife ensures medical talk is dinner table conversation at the Cherian home. He met his wife, Dr Lekha Cherian, a gastroenterologist in London. The couple has two boys, Ryan and Aiden. The older one is studying biomedical engineering at Oxford.

Away from his surgical scrubs, he has a creative gene too. He loves strumming the guitar. “I enjoy jam sessions with my boys who are good at the piano. I am a semi-professional photographer, and have sold photographs to some UK magazines too,” he concludes.

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Guiness record holder and royal scion: Dr Lakshyaraj Singh Ji Mewar is preserving the legacy of Udaipur

(December 17, 2024) It is early afternoon, and the royal scion Maharaj Kumar Sahib Dr. Lakshyaraj Singh Ji Mewar of Udaipur walks in briskly, radiating energy and fresh off a round of meetings. Born into the illustrious Mewar royal family with a legacy stretching back 1,500 years (and with the illustrious Maharana Sanga and Maharana Pratap as ancestors), the first thing one notices about him is how comfortable he is in any setting—be it a ballroom in London or playing cricket with his childhood friends in Udaipur! Multiple Guinness World Record holder, inspirational TEDx speaker, and a philosopher, his biggest achievement has been safeguarding and powering the cultural legacy of Udaipur ahead. The City Palace at Udaipur remains a hallmark for conservation/restoration and a sustainable model for how museums can be run. Through his relentless dedication, it remains a global destination for weddings, luxury, and art. It is his universal outlook that makes him a true Global Indian. [caption id="attachment_61823" align="aligncenter" width="453"] Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar[/caption] A royal childhood "Growing up in the palace was a unique experience," he reflects. "There was space—literal and metaphorical—that most children could only dream of. I am very blessed and fortunate to have expansive grounds

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A royal childhood

"Growing up in the palace was a unique experience," he reflects. "There was space—literal and metaphorical—that most children could only dream of. I am very blessed and fortunate to have expansive grounds to play in and an environment that nurtured curiosity and personal growth."

His upbringing, while steeped in grandeur, was remarkably grounded. His parents, as he fondly recalls, were ‘walking, talking books’ who imparted wisdom through example rather than instruction. Cooking with family was a cherished memory. "My dad would be sitting, and the pot needed to be stirred. So you would be that machine that would stir the pot. But you didn't realize at that point that these were ways of instilling qualities and interests within you—adding masalas, stirring, lifting things."

His father (the formidable Shriji Arvind Singh ji Mewar of Udaipur) instilled discipline and introduced him to hobbies that would shape his multifaceted personality. "Aero modeling was something I really enjoyed," Lakshyaraj shares. "My father was a radio-controlled flyer who graduated to flying real aircraft. I inherited some of his models, and these experiences taught me about hard work, discipline, and the joy of creation."

His mother (Princess Vijayaraj Kumari of Kutch) brought a different dimension to his upbringing. "She taught us to be kind, to be rooted, to be spiritual," he says. "She emphasized that the greatest things in life don't need external embellishments. The most profound lessons were about understanding that life is about continuous improvement, not about proving something to others."

"The idea is never to prove, but to improve," he reflects, encapsulating the values imbued in him during those formative years. It reflects in his deeply holistic approach towards life—he is equally dedicated to designing modern hotel amenities or showcasing 500-year-old Mewar paintings.

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The Australian Odyssey

At 18, Lakshyaraj Singh’s royal journey took him to Australia, where he pursued a degree in tourism and hospitality management. However, the most transformative aspect of this experience was not academic but cultural. "There were over 35 nationalities on our campus," he recalls with nostalgia. "The greatest learning wasn't about technical skills like cooking temperatures or sauce ingredients. It was about cultural integration, understanding perspectives, and respecting differences."

This period was a profound lesson in global citizenship. "You learn how the same event can be viewed through multiple lenses," he explains. "Everybody has different opinions about the same thing, often with remarkable conviction. This allows you to think, to grow. I learned there that the idea is not to go through life but to grow through life."

The anonymity of being one among many did not faze him. "Anonymity or being known makes no difference to me," he states. "Success, perceptions, baggage—these are reflections of others, not me. I choose to respond, not react."

Back to his roots

Returning to Udaipur at 22, he immersed himself in the family business. Initially overwhelmed, he spent years understanding the intricacies of an institution built over generations. His early responsibilities ranged from hospitality to cultural initiatives, all central to the family’s commitment to uphold Mewar’s legacy.

"For the longest time, I was running from pillar to post like a headless chicken," he admits. "It took me a good year or two to settle down, to understand, to absorb, to feel, and to identify the intricate workings of an institution that had been running for generations."

His interests are wonderfully diverse—ranging from Ragamala paintings and die-cast model collecting to playing tabla and exploring Sufi poetry. "I'm not a person confined to one genre," he explains. "Whether it's hospitality, art, technology, or cultural activities, I find inspiration in multiple domains."

Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar | Global Indian

Central to his worldview is what he calls the "GGGN" formula—the Greatest Good for the Greatest Number. "Whatever you do in life should be for the greatest good," he elaborates. "First, ensure your actions benefit the collective. Then, have the ambition—the healthy greed—to expand that benefit to the maximum number of people possible."

It is this philosophy that has guided him over the years. To ensure that the same attention is given to running a school as to ensuring that new facets of Mewar’s life (like the recently opened arms and armory section of the museum) are showcased to the public.

This belief also extends to his approach to challenges and success and keeps him grounded during the ebb and flow of life’s ups and downs. "Life is a constant challenge," he says. "But more importantly, people today struggle to handle success. Everyone performs well in failure, but success often brings out the worst in people. The real test is how you behave when you're at the pinnacle."

Legacy and continuous learning

As a representative of Indian royalty in today’s time, Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar sees his role as a cultural ambassador. "It's the duty of every Indian to represent our culture, both within the country and abroad," he states. "Our task is to make traditions relevant in the 21st century and set the right example for future generations."

This ethos drives initiatives like restoring heritage sites, promoting sustainable tourism, and engaging with the local community. His efforts aim to keep Mewar’s legacy not just alive but thriving. Perhaps most inspiring is his commitment to lifelong learning. Despite once hating academics, he's now pursuing a PhD in stress management. "Things change, and that's the beauty of life," he reflects. "Keep improving yourself; keep getting educated. Learn, grow, and remain open to possibilities."

It is this evolution that helps him marvel at the palaces, sculptures, and textiles that define Mewar’s artistic living heritage while at the same time indulging in activities that interest him, like recreating traditional Rajasthani recipes.

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A royal perspective

Looking back with gratitude, Lakshyaraj Singh states, “Every day I am thankful to God for giving me the family that he has and where I have been born. And every day I pray that I am worthy, and I kind of do the work that is expected of me, for 1500 years that the work that the family has done.”

Beyond his public work, the royal is an accomplished artist, chef, photographer, and aeromodelling enthusiast. He is a collector of die cast car models and formulated a unique perfume that represents the house of Mewar with its fragrance and ingredients.

His vision for the future revolves around sharing Mewar’s rich heritage with the world. From museums and cultural events to academic pursuits, he embodies a new archetype of royalty that sees immense potential to inspire and educate. "There is no greater joy than sharing your culture and traditions," he says.

As he balances his roles as a father, a cultural custodian, and a modern entrepreneur, the royal scion remains rooted in his core philosophy: to grow through life while staying true to the legacy he represents. For him, the journey is as significant as the destination—an enduring testament to the timeless spirit of Mewar.

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