Indians in UK | Ranjit Singh Veer | Global Indian

Global IndianstoryRanjit Singh Veer: The UK bus driver becomes a singing sensation

Ranjit Singh Veer: The UK bus driver becomes a singing sensation

Compiled by: Amrita Priya

(February 20, 2023) “Proud to be a bus driver’s daughter.️ His hard work made sure I had every opportunity in the world. Thank you, Dad!” commented Pam Kaur, Ranjit Singh Veer’s daughter as soon as his music video released on YouTube. The family didn’t know at that time that it would go viral. “It was when my friends started messaging, ‘we saw your father on TV and TikTok’, that we realised, whoa! he has gone popular,” remarked his son Jag.

UK-based Ranjit Singh Veer loves two things dearly – driving buses and singing. He combined both his profession and passion to come up with a music video. Still, he never imagined in his wildest dreams that he would turn into a singing sensation, attracting a fan following from around the world and media coverages from the likes of the BBC.

When he set out to create the video, Singh had intended to show his relatives back in India how he spends time with his colleagues while working for the National Express in the United Kingdom. The song, that he penned and sang, celebrates the diversity of his colleagues, his passion for his job, and the significance of health and safety.

Ranjeet Singh Veer

Singh had hired a video production company to create the sleek music video, featuring him and his colleagues. Before this viral video, his love for singing had led him to create another video two years back titled Corona Journey, which had garnered a lukewarm response. This time his creation managed to touch the chords harder.

Singh who is more comfortable in speaking in Punjabi said in an interview with BBC, “It was my dream to make a music video about my job so that when I retire, I can watch it back as a memento and reflect on how me and my colleagues used to drive buses together.”

The feel-good factor

The video reflects a sense of team spirit and the response has been overwhelming.

I wanted to celebrate the different communities we have at our depot and how we work together as one team. A music video was the best way to do that.

Sung in Punjabi, the music video has been praised for being entertaining while promoting the goodwill, peace and togetherness between people of different creeds and cultures who work together.

Singh has been working for the National Express in the UK for 13 years. The video was filmed at one of the company’s garages and West Bromwich bus station.

“Our staff really are our greatest assets,” said David Bradford, managing director for National Express West Midlands. “They all work incredibly hard to keep our customers moving, and to see the enthusiasm that they have for their roles in the company is great. Thank you to Ranjit and the team at West Bromwich for putting such a smile on everyone’s faces,” he added.

From Malaysia to UK

Before moving to the United Kingdom, the Global Indian worked as a priest at Gurudwara Sahib Butterworth in Malaysia. One of the people who knew him during those days commented on the video reminiscing how he has always been a good singer.

“He was known to perform some of the most beautiful and heart touching kirtans, lots of tears especially during weddings when he sang about daughter leaving her parents. I am tearing up now even 30 years later writing about this. I am so proud of you,” he commented on the video.

Ranjit Singh Veer with his colleagues

Breaking the language barrier

As the music video topped the charts, people around the world showered their love and appreciation on Singh and the Sikh community. The message conveyed is clear, even though many of his audience don’t understand a single word.

“I’m a young English lad living in London. The Sikhs are some of the hardest working people I’ve ever seen! I want to thank all those who work in the public transport sector regardless of their religion. Your hard work is what allows us to travel safely to work and to see family. Thank you for your efforts and for this beautiful music video!” remarked an overwhelmed British fan.

Overjoyed with his sudden stardom he could not contain his joy. “I am so happy and proud that so many people liked and gave such lovely comments,” the singing sensation told BBC News. “If you put your heart into your work, you will achieve great happiness. I like driving. There is a lot of joy in this job,” he added.

Watch Ranjit Singh Veer’s songs on YouTube

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Published on 20, Feb 2023

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Durga Puja, art, and activism: The world of Bhabatosh Sutar

(October 20, 2023) Bhabatosh Sutar is a highly skilled artist with two-and-a half decades of experience in Western painting techniques and a wide array of artistic expressions, including sculpture, and installation art which grace prestigious museums, galleries and public places. He is renowned as a Durga Puja artist, crafting exclusive themes for pujas that showcase not only his artistic design and sculpting expertise but also his architectural, sound and light acumen, and passion to highlight community based issues. This year Sutar achieved a significant milestone in his career with the creation of an exclusive fiberglass idol for a Durga Puja celebration in New Jersey. However, it’s not his first creation that went abroad, many of his works, mostly paintings and sculptures, have found place in homes of art lovers in distant lands like Germany and UK. In September-October, all of eastern India, and West Bengal in particular, comes alive with the festive energy of Durga Puja. The masterfully designed pandals and crafted idols of the Goddess are a spectacle to behold. In 2021, UNESCO recognised Durga Puja as an 'Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity', a source of pride for artisans, designers, cultural event organisers, as well as for the enthusiastic

-puja-inscribed-unesco-representative-list-intangible-cultural-heritage-humanity" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UNESCO recognised Durga Puja as an 'Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity', a source of pride for artisans, designers, cultural event organisers, as well as for the enthusiastic communities who celebrate this grand festival. The festival also holds a special place in the hearts of the diaspora worldwide. While artists and organisers in India have explored innovative themes, diaspora communities have largely stuck to traditional idols and designs.

In East Brunswick, New Jersey, the Utsov club, a prominent organiser of Durga Puja in Edison town, has taken a unique approach this year. To help them in their endeavour to do things differently, they engaged Bhabhatosh Sutar, the reputed Durga Puja artist acclaimed for his fusion of innovation and tradition, to conceptualise and create exclusive theme-based pujas, captivating audiences with experiential designs.

[caption id="attachment_46094" align="aligncenter" width="820"] Indian Art and Culture | Bhabatosh Sutar | Global Indian Bhabatosh Sutar[/caption]

“I chose to collaborate with them because they were seeking innovation, which aligns with the kind of creative ideas I specialise in,” says Sutar, as he connects with Global Indian. This collaboration marks a new milestone in the career of the artist who is now in talks with a UK based club for their next year’s celebration.

“For me, my Durga Puja creations go beyond mere economic benefits. They are a manifestation of my passion for conceiving exclusive Puja themes. This is why my focus is less on the foreign market as they tend to favour traditional designs," he adds.

Building a brand of his own

The esteemed Durga Puja artist, who has recently launched his second book, modestly remarks, "I have had the privilege of conceiving 50 one-of-a-kind pujas, each driven by original ideas, in collaboration with some of Kolkata and Odisha’s most distinguished clubs revered for their theme-based festivities.”

Durga Puja-related art consumes half of his year, while the other six months are dedicated to a diverse array of artistic pursuits. “I have not confined myself to single medium of art, rather love to explore different mediums to express my ideas to give voice to community issues,” he says. “I love challenging myself by redefining myself through my work,” he adds. Beyond his creative work, Sutar loves reading, writing, and actively engages in art for activism.

[caption id="attachment_46095" align="aligncenter" width="726"] Indian Art and Culture | Bhabatosh Sutar | Global Indian Bhabatosh Sutar with West Bengal CM, Mamta Banerjee in 2017[/caption]

His bilingual books Mathe Ghate Shilpo: Art on Ground Zero, written in two parts, is based on his experiences in the Durga Puja industry of two and a half decades. Talking about his second book that got launched this Mahalaya, he says “It’s a coffee table book illuminating the journey of artisans who migrate from villages to towns for three months during Durga Puja, showcasing how their indigenous art becomes an integral part of contemporary celebrations. It highlights the mutual learning and knowledge exchange that takes place between these artisans and the modern artists in town.”

Art for activism and beyond through Chander Haat

Bhabatosh Sutar is a key member of Chander Haat, a collaborative hub that supports cross-disciplinary endeavours, creating an expansive stage for community-driven art initiatives.

“Chander Haat has rapidly gained popularity for dedication of artists who are not just deeply committed to their craft but make use of it for making the society a better place by working on issues such as women’s empowerment, and empowerment of the downtrodden communities, and migrant labourers” he tells. They make use of art for activism.

“Both local community and art enthusiasts benefit from this holistic approach, enjoying the creative process without being confined to the exclusive sphere of the high-end art world,” he remarks.

Chander Haat's multi-faceted approach also includes engaging in Durga Puja festivals, where artists create idols that resonate with the wider community. It's not just about serving the gallery circuit; the primary focus is on enlightening the common people about the visual arts' connection to life.

[caption id="attachment_46114" align="aligncenter" width="517"] Indian Art and Culture | Bhabatosh Sutar | Global Indian Bhabatosh Sutar[/caption]

The course of life

Born in 1974 in Bangladesh, Sutar migrated to Kolkata as a seven year old. He and his siblings grew up in financial hardship as their father worked as a daily wage labourer.
“As early as the age of five, I realised that I had an artist within me. I loved to draw and paint” says the versatile artist, whose mother was creatively inclined and was very good at handicrafts and music.

Bhabatosh Sutar graduated from the Government College of Art and Craft, Calcutta in 2000, as a student of Western painting. After passing out, the talented artist did not remain confined to just painting, and built his speciality in a wider spectrum of artistic expression.

He has several unique art exhibitions in his repertoire, including the 2022 solo exhibition ‘Celebration’, which was a kind of a memorial to the difficulties faced by people like vegetable vendors, rickshawallahs and Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) workers during the pandemic. He recorded the stories of 64 such people and made their terracotta portraits. Their stories were even audible when one placed the ear near each portrait.

[caption id="attachment_46112" align="aligncenter" width="766"] Indian Art and Culture | Bhabatosh Sutar | Global Indian Bhabatosh Sutar's work[/caption]

Sutar’s works grace prestigious museums galleries and public places in Kolkata, such as the Behala Archaeological Museum, Open Museum, Eco Tourism Park, and the pavilion of prestigious hotel, ITC Sonar Bangla.

Since Durga Puja is a central focus of life in West Bengal, he developed expertise in crafting idols of the Goddess. “I am not just confined to creating clay idols but make use of a diverse array of materials like metal, wood, fibreglass and more,” he says.

With his magnificent fusion of tradition and innovation, and meticulous attention to detail, Bhabatosh Sutar has been crafting Durga idols that are not just religious symbols but also exquisite works of art. His idols are known for their lifelike expressions and striking aesthetics, capturing the essence of divinity and feminine strength. The themes surrounding these idols stimulate contemplation for both the locals and the tourists who flock in lakhs to witness the festivities.

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

Follow Bhabatosh Sutar on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube
Visit his website for additional information

Reading Time: 5 mins

Ramayana’s global odyssey: Cultural adaptations and twists

(November 8, 2023) Ramayana, the ancient Indian epic, and the most revered text of Indian mythology stands as a timeless narrative that has transcended borders and evolved in multiple versions. The universal tale of the Indian mythology ventured into distant lands from India, in places like the heart of Indonesia to the exotic temples of Cambodia, and even the archipelagic Philippines. These adaptations, weave the lasting influence of the Ramayana on different cultures. Global Indian uncovers the footprints of the Ramayana in locales outside India, and how this has led to twists on the story of the timeless epic. Kakawin Ramayana: The Indonesian twist on an Indian epic The Ramayana arrived in Indonesia in the 8th or 9th century, and is known there as the Kakawin Ramayana. It has deeply influenced Indonesian culture, particularly among the Javanese, Balinese, and Sudanese communities, serving as a moral guide and a form of artistic expression. Traditional Wayang puppetry, including Wayang Golek and Wayang Kulit, helped integrate the Ramayana and Mahabharata into Indonesian culture. [caption id="attachment_46580" align="aligncenter" width="679"] Indonesia's artists depicting the story of Ramayana on stage[/caption] While the Kakawin Ramayana shares many characters with the Indian version, it also incorporates indigenous Javanese deities

dian.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/EejQYwdUEAAgmg_.jpg" alt="Indonesia | Global Indian " width="679" height="452" /> Indonesia's artists depicting the story of Ramayana on stage[/caption]

While the Kakawin Ramayana shares many characters with the Indian version, it also incorporates indigenous Javanese deities like Semar and his four sons. One notable difference is the portrayal of Sita, who is depicted as a strong and assertive figure in the Kakawin Ramayana, in contrast to the demure and patient Sita in the Indian version.

Ramakien: Thailand's unique take on the Ramayana

In Thailand, the Ramakien, meaning the 'glory of Rama,' has become a national epic. King Rama VI played a crucial role in popularising it. The origins of the epic can be traced back to Vishnu Purana, Valmiki's Ramayana, and the Hanuman Nataka. While the original epic portrays Lord Hanuman as acting alone when setting Lanka on fire, Ramakien tells of how he led a monkey army in the attack on Krung Longka (Lanka). Hanuman used his magical powers to create a bridge for his monkey soldiers to overcome the water barrier.

[caption id="attachment_46569" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Ramayana in Thailand | Global Indian Thailand's artists depicting the story of Ramayana[/caption]

Unlike the original Ramayana, which primarily focuses on Lord Rama and his virtues, Ramakien delves deeper into the character of the demon king, Tosakanth. Ramakien admires Ravana's resourcefulness and portrays his abduction of Sita as an act of love, evoking sympathy.

Reamker: Cambodia's enduring Ramayana influence

The Cambodian rendition of the Ramayana, known as 'Reamker' or 'Ramakerti,' traces its roots in Cambodian culture as far back as the 10th century AD. Ancient Hindu temples in the region contain early references to the Ramayana, while the famous Angkor Wat temple showcases various episodes from the epic. In Reamker, Lord Ram is referred as 'Preah Ream,' Ravana as 'Krong Reap,' Sita as 'Neang Seda,' and Lakshman as 'Preah Leak,' while Hanuman retains his name with a slight pronunciation variation.

[caption id="attachment_46570" align="aligncenter" width="667"] Ramayana | Global Indian Artists of Cambodia depicting the story of Ramayana on stage[/caption]

The influence of the Ramayana on Cambodian culture is strong the story is depicted on Angkor's bas-reliefs and temple frescoes. It's a central theme in the traditional shadow play, ‘Sbek Thom’ and also forms the basis of the popular masked dance Ikhon Khol. Cambodians revere the character of Ram not only from a Hindu perspective but also as an embodiment of the Buddha himself, adding a unique layer of significance to the epic.

Hikayat Seri Rama: Malay adaptation of the Ramayana

Hikayat Seri Rama is the Malay adaptation of the Hindu Ramayana, believed to have been written between the 13th and 15th centuries. It's one of Malaysia's oldest known manuscripts and quite likely the oldest illuminated Malay manuscript. While the core story remains faithful to the original Sanskrit version, some aspects were adjusted to fit the local context, including names' spelling and pronunciation.

[caption id="attachment_46572" align="aligncenter" width="643"] Ramayana | Global Indian Malaysia's artists depicting the story on stage[/caption]

Over time, numerous branch stories emerged in the Malay adaptation of Ramayana, elevating minor characters or introducing new ones. For instance, in some variations, Laksmana takes on a more prominent role, often overshadowing Rama. Rama, though virtuous, is sometimes seen as less decisive, with the younger Laksmana admired for his courage and assertiveness.

Maharadia Lawana: Ramayana's Philippine influence

The famous Filipino 'Singkil' dance, rooted in the Ramayana, is a cherished folk dance of the Maranao people of Lake Lanao. The Hindu religion reached the Philippines from the Majapahit Empire between the 17th and 19th centuries. During this time, the epic integrated into the Philippines' folk literary tradition.

[caption id="attachment_46574" align="aligncenter" width="705"] Ramayana | Global Indian Phillipines' artists depicting the story of Ramayana on stage[/caption]

In the Maranao tribe, the Ramayana takes on a unique form known as 'Maharadia Lawana,' narrating the tale of an immortal ‘monkey-king’. This local dance style encapsulates the Ramayana's story, although certain elements are adapted or omitted. Notably, details about Lawana's (Ravana's) birth, death, and his motivation for kidnapping Sita are excluded. The fate of Lawana after combat remains ambiguous. In this version, Vibhishana's character is absent, and Hanuman and Lava-Kusa merge into a single character, Lakhsamana.

Sri Lanka's Ramayana journey: Echoes to heroic Ravana

Although there is evidence of early poetic works related to the epic within literate circles in Sri Lanka, especially in Kumaradasa's fifth-century Janakiharana, it wasn't until the 14^th century that a substantial influence of the Ramayana became apparent in Sri Lanka. During this time the story got amalgamated with the Sinhala Buddhist folklore, literature, and temple practices. Ravana, in this version, is celebrated as a heroic figure, renowned for his exceptional warrior skills and compassionate rule, accompanied by remarkable intellect. Additionally, some even assert that Ravana may have been the first to pioneer aviation, centuries prior to the Wright brothers' achievements.

[caption id="attachment_46581" align="aligncenter" width="771"] This is considered to be the remnants of Ravana's Fort in Sri Lanka[/caption]

Sri Lanka and the Ramayana share a deep-rooted connection since the island nation has a significant mention in the Ramayana. It is believed to be the kingdom of Lanka, where the episodes of Lord Rama's quest to rescue Sita unfolded. The interlinking of Sri Lanka with the epic has made the tiny island nation an integral part of the larger Indian cultural tapestry.

The multiple adaptations of Ramayana illuminates the power of storytelling and the ability of one epic to resonate with diverse societies, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. These adaptations have enriched the world literature and has helped India’s epic tale gain global significance.

Reading Time: 5 Mins

Behind the lens: Artist Vishal Punjabi’s path to wedding filmmaking stardom

(April 21, 2024) During the filming of the song Kabira in the 2013 film Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani actress Deepika Padukone was directed by Vishal Punjabi. It was then that she had mentioned to him that she would like him to shoot her wedding when it happened. Five years later in 2018, when she got married to actor Ranveer Singh, she called the photographer to remind him. The name behind the stunning wedding visuals of several Bollywood celebrities, Vishal Punjabi is a persona with many dimensions. And now the artist, whose firm The Wedding Filmer is a favourite with celebrities to shoot their wedding memories, has a captivating storytelling and cinematic style with offices in India, London, and soon New York. The globetrotter Vishal grew up in Ghana, and while his parents split when he was under 10, it did not stop him from soaking in its rich cultural and musical vibes. He then hopped over to London for studies, and finally, Mumbai stole his heart when he chased down a job with Shah Rukh Khan (SRK) when times were simpler. [caption id="attachment_50892" align="aligncenter" width="555"] Vishal with Shah Rukh Khan[/caption] “Along the way, from hustling as a waiter to building

stole his heart when he chased down a job with Shah Rukh Khan (SRK) when times were simpler.

[caption id="attachment_50892" align="aligncenter" width="555"] Artist | Vishal Punjabi | Global Indian Vishal with Shah Rukh Khan[/caption]

“Along the way, from hustling as a waiter to building computers in my dad’s garage to chasing my film-making dream, life's been a wild ride. I was born Hindu but wasn’t exposed to it much. I found myself diving into the Bible with my mum, initially out of curiosity, which led me to embrace Christianity. It was a beautiful read that kept me entertained. Then, love happened, and marrying a Muslim meant I happily welcomed Islam into my life. It's been a journey of faith, love, heartbreak, and second chances, all while learning to tell my own stories through a camera lens,” the artist says. His career took off when he had the opportunity to work with SRK’s Red Chillies Entertainment and he credits SRK, Farah Khan, and Santosh Sivan for helping him learn about filmmaking and visual art.

Wedding bells

Being an ace in visual art he started his firm The Wedding Filmer as the photographer believes that weddings are like live theatres teeming with stories about unity and stunning visuals that you just don't see anywhere else.

Artist | Vishal Punjabi | Global Indian

“There's something magical about capturing two people in love, amidst their nearest and dearest, coming together despite all odds. Honestly, it was at a wedding that I found love again, seeing firsthand how these events could bridge worlds, mend fences, and bring families closer together. When I shoot weddings, I’m like a fly on the wall—observant and unobtrusive, yet deeply involved and sometimes playing the part of a therapist during interviews with the couple, family, and friends. We navigate through lifetimes in those conversations, piecing together films that are not just memories but bridges. The way I see it, these films do something extraordinary; they pull people together, creating a bond that’s about more than just the festivities,” the artist explains.

ALSO READ | Ace photographer Nitin Rai’s journey was a roller-coaster ride

Motivation cues

The artist is the name behind the captivating wedding films of Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma, Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh, Kiara Advani and Sidharth Malhotra, and recently Jackky Bhagnani and Rakul Preet Singh. The photographer’s deep-seated desire to make a positive impact on others’ lives is a great motivator for him. The ability of creating opportunities, crafting stable and rewarding careers for those who are not just talented but also embody loyalty and fairness is also a driver.

[caption id="attachment_50894" align="aligncenter" width="561"] Artist | Vishal Punjabi | Global Indian Viahal with filmmaker Farah Khan[/caption]

Prod him and he smilingly says, “A cheeky part of me always jokes that the incredible food I get to enjoy at weddings is a big motivator. And let’s not forget the chance to dress up! There’s no stage quite like a wedding to showcase your best attire. But when I peel back the layers and really think about it, the core of my motivation is my family, especially my son, Sufi. He’s such a big part of why I wake up every morning—so much so that we honoured him in our logo animation when I started The Wedding Filmer. It was a time when I was searching for a greater purpose, something significant I could build not just for me, but for him. His arrival was a catalyst, pushing me to create something meaningful, something that could make a real difference. There’s immense satisfaction in knowing that, through my work, I’m able to contribute to someone else’s growth and happiness.”

Celeb connect

Shooting celebrity weddings has been an exhilarating journey for him as each one unique and full of moments that are both intimate and grand. “What makes these experiences unforgettable isn't just the glitz and glamour, but the raw, heartfelt emotions that bubble beneath the surface. There’s this beautiful universality in weddings - whether it's a celebrity's or not - the nervous smiles, the teary-eyed parents, the laughter, and the dances, they all weave into the timeless story,” the artist says.

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One of his best experiences recently was capturing a princess who was getting married at a temple built by her ancestors. “It wasn’t opulent, local flowers were used but what stood out was the simplicity of her love story, a narrative that resonated with anyone who believes in the magic of love. Here were two people finding love again, for all the right reasons. The highlight is always the small, unguarded moments between the couple - a whisper, a glance, a smile. In my films, I strive to weave the personal anecdotes shared by family and friends, the cultural nuances, and the couple’s journey into a cohesive story that not only celebrates their union but also touches the hearts of anyone who watches it. It's about transcending the boundaries of tradition and culture to highlight the universal language of love. This storytelling approach transforms each film into a personal heirloom,” he explains.

Being resilient

For someone who has been deported, divorced, and discarded he has always bounced back. Overcoming challenges has been a cornerstone of his journey, deeply intertwined with the art of embracing and fighting through failure.

Artist | Vishal Punjabi | Global Indian

“Each setback, each stumble, has been a lesson, shaping not just my career but my very approach to life and storytelling. Failure, in its daunting shadows, often carries the seeds of growth and innovation. By facing it head-on, acknowledging the lessons it offers, and using them as stepping stones, I have found new pathways to success that were previously obscured by the comfort of the familiar. In my work, this translates to a relentless pursuit of authenticity and innovation. When a film doesn't capture the essence of the story I aim to tell, or when a creative risk doesn't pay off as hoped, I take it as a cue to delve deeper, to refine my vision and technique,” the artist expresses.

ALSO READ | Photographer Omer Khan, who loves to shoot life, on his lucky escape from Afghanistan

Looking ahead

His mantra in life is simple - if you lose the job, you will find a better job, and if you lose the girl, you will find a better girl, and if you get sick, you will learn to stop putting rubbish in your system.

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“Embrace failure. Make it your greatest ally. For the moment they think you’re finished; that’s when your success is assured,” he says. A voracious reader and an avid cook he admits that he is a beautiful time waster. “I have the exceptional ability to do nothing for extended periods of time,” the artist smiles. His plans going forward is to make The Wedding Filmer affordable and extendable so that every bride and groom can have a memory worth cherishing. A memory that brings them closer together.

Follow Vishal Punjabi on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and his Website

Reading Time: 6 mins

Shinjini Kundu: Bringing cutting edge AI engineering to medical diagnosis

(May 3, 2024) “After many years of research, I developed a new AI technique called Transport-based Morphometry which is like a smart Sherlock Holmes sniffing out subtle clues,” Shinjini remarked in a TEDxGateway talk a few years back. A physician and computer scientist at The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Shinjini is known for using her unique expertise at the intersection of engineering and medicine to detect diseases currently imperceptible to humans. For her enormous efforts to transform medical diagnosis with the help of AI, the physician and scientist has earned international acclaim. She was named in the Forbes 30 under 30 list in 2018, and was in the MIT Technology Review's 35 innovators under 35 list for creating an artificial-intelligence system that can analyse medical images to find patterns undetectable by the naked eye. The World Economic Forum Young Global Leader has also earned the Carnegie Science Award for her research work. [caption id="attachment_51242" align="aligncenter" width="559"] Shinjini Kundu during Carnegie Mellon University's Tartans on the Rise awards ceremony[/caption] Renowned for her expertise in diagnosing diseases from medical images at an early stage, even when imaging options like MRI scans fail to reveal human-identifiable abnormalities, Shinjini has utilised artificial intelligence to make

lt="Indian Scientist | Shinjini Kundu | Global Indian" width="559" height="706" /> Shinjini Kundu during Carnegie Mellon University's Tartans on the Rise awards ceremony[/caption]

Renowned for her expertise in diagnosing diseases from medical images at an early stage, even when imaging options like MRI scans fail to reveal human-identifiable abnormalities, Shinjini has utilised artificial intelligence to make previously unnoticed patterns discernible. Her contributions have significantly impacted the field of diagnosis.

Accolades along the way

“Eight years after graduating with my PhD, I was thankful to be back in Pittsburgh over the weekend to attend the Carnegie Mellon University 2024 Tartans on the Rise awards ceremony. Grateful to be named one of this year's alumni awardees,” Shinjini Kundu shared joyfully recently.

In the past she has given talks on the impact of AI on healthcare at prestigious platforms like TEDx, World Business Dialogue and the United Nations. She has authored or co-authored close to 20 peer-reviewed articles for journals like Nature Medicine and Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and has also presented her research work at the International Conference on Acoustics, Speech, and Signal Processing.

In 2018, Kundu spoke at the United Nations AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva, Switzerland. Her advocacy for transparent AI in medicine played a significant role in its adoption as a priority area under Sustainable Development Goal 3.

[caption id="attachment_51243" align="aligncenter" width="521"] Indian Scientist | Shinjini Kundu | Global Indian Shinjini Kundu received Carnegie Mellon University 2024 Tartans on the Rise Award[/caption]

The physician and scientist has also contributed to the emerging digital health policies of the American Medical Association, and the digital privacy policies at the Observer Research Foundation. She was recognised as Pittsburgh Magazine's 40 Under 40 in 2016.

Using AI to address a pressing need

One of Shinjini’s research projects successfully detected knee osteoarthritis three years before symptoms manifested. Her research centres on her innovative creations - Transport-based Morphometry (TBM), which utilizes machine learning techniques to detect underlying diseases that may not be easily identifiable through traditional imaging methods such as MRIs.

“My thought is that there's more information in the images than meets the human eye. We can find this information and make sense of it using artificial intelligence in a lot of problems. There are hidden changes in the images that are invisible to the naked eye that a computer can find. It's important to find these because sometimes they can indicate the imminence of disease, sometimes it can help you predict disease years before we ever knew that we could,” she said in an interview after winning the NRI Award - Times Now's annually televised Indian awards show recognising achievements by those of Indian descent.

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

AI - the Sherlock Holmes in medical diagnosis

It has been her curiosity that has fuelled Shinjini’s journey to uncover many invisible clues in the field of medical diagnosis. Her work centres on analysing medical scan images (Xray, MRI, CT scan reports), with a focus not on what is visible, but on what remains hidden within those images.

“It's not long ago that surgery used to be the only way to see inside. Images are one of our fastest growing sources of medical data today and there are even newer imaging technologies coming up. Images are interpreted by a medical doctor like me trained in radiology,” she remarked in one of her talks, “But I am not here to talk about the visible side of imaging, I am not here to talk about the side of imaging that everybody sees. I am here to talk about the dark side of imaging, the side that we haven't been able to see and the side that we didn't even know existed until recently,” she revealed.

Highlighting her quest to uncover the invisible, she illustrated a scenario in a TEDxGateway talk, telling audiences to imagine playing cricket, where a ball strikes a person on the head, leaving him feeling dizzy. Upon returning to the game after resting, his team members notice a decrease in reaction time. A visit to the doctor confirms a concussion, which slowed the player’s responses. Despite examining 10 other concussion patients that day, the doctor cannot discern any visual patterns in the variations of reaction times of those patients.

Such hypotheses led her to ponder if hidden complexities exist beyond a medical professional’s perception, potentially unlocking insights into otherwise cryptic diseases. This curiosity led her to delve into the 'dark side' of imaging and devise unique methods like 3D Transport-based Morphometry. “It can crack cases like a smart Sherlock Holmes, sniffing out subtle clues and solving the mystery even before humans can,” she remarked

A solid background

When Shinjini was in high school, she used to find great interest in assisting her father, a computer engineer, in dismantling computers. This in fact, influenced her academic path - she went on to earn her bachelor's and master's degrees in electrical engineering from Stanford University. During her time at Stanford, she also served as editor-in-chief of the university's undergraduate research journal.

It was during this time that a class on medical imaging sparked Shinjini’s interest in the medical field, motivating her to polish her expertise to expedite patient diagnoses. As a result, she enrolled in the Medical Scientist Training Program jointly conducted by Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh, and then went on to do PhD.

[caption id="attachment_51246" align="aligncenter" width="524"] Indian Scientist | Shinjini Kundu | Global Indian Shinjini Kundu at launch party for Bosch Center for AI at her alma mater CMU in 2018[/caption]

Talking about her doctorate programme the Global Indian shared in an interview, “My PhD was the hardest thing I have ever done. There is so much uncertainty and you are trying to explore uncharted territory and to create a research contribution that nobody has ever explored before. So, you don't know if it's going to work. You could be working on it for three months and it could lead to nowhere and that can be demoralising and at the same time you could be working on something and have a breakthrough and that could be really energising. So, just keep going, no matter what the ups and downs.”

Talking about her motivation during those years she remarked, “My thought was that if you can diagnose it years before that bone damage and that pain develops then maybe there's a chance that you can sort of halt the process or maybe even slow down the trajectory and that was the motivation for it.”

She looks at technology as an enabler for the medical diagnostics and treatments in current times. “I want to be an enabler of the technology and I also want it to be on the other side and see the impact that I had on patients. So that's why I decided to do an MD and a PhD,” she shared.

While growing up Shinjini was not only interested in STEM. She also trained as an Indian classical dancer and even performed at reputed places like the Madison Square Garden, a multi-purpose indoor arena in New York City.

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To know more about her visit her website

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Dr Kalyani Gopal: Empowering sexual abuse and human trafficking victims globally

(April 24, 2024) “My team and I are in the process of exploring the purchase of a five-acre plot of land, which I plan to convert into an eco-village. Dedicated to my late mother it would help give a peaceful environment to victims of human trafficking and sexual assault,” Dr Kalyani Gopal tells Global Indian. She has already thought of the name of the project as SAFE Village - Unnati Sewa. It would be a unique residential restorative model to bring back the dignity of victims of human trafficking and sexual assault. With over three decades of experience in addressing issues such as child sexual abuse, human trafficking, and labour trafficking, the Indian-origin psychologist has garnered international recognition and is now giving back to her native land. Dr Kalyani Gopal is the first woman of colour and Asian American to earn the presidency of the Illinois Psychological Association which oversees the State of Illinois’ psychologists. She is also the first Asian American President of Division 12 of the APA, Society for Clinical Psychology, and has recently finished her term on the Committee of State Leaders, APA. [caption id="attachment_50926" align="aligncenter" width="475"] Dr Kalyani Gopal[/caption] In her service spanning continents, the ace

Asian American President of Division 12 of the APA, Society for Clinical Psychology, and has recently finished her term on the Committee of State Leaders, APA.

[caption id="attachment_50926" align="aligncenter" width="475"] Indians in USA | Dr Kalyani Gopal | Global Indian Dr Kalyani Gopal[/caption]

In her service spanning continents, the ace psychologist developed a Clinical Treatment Manual for Mongolian psychologists and clinicians, treated grieving Myanmar families during war, and created a tool for identifying potential victims of trafficking in Ukraine, and other regions.

In 2014, Dr Gopal established an initiative called, SAFECHR - SAFE Coalition for Human Rights through which she has worked for trauma patients and victims in the United States, Europe, and India.

Finding the purpose

After completing her postgraduate studies at Delhi University and the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore Dr Kalyani Gopal moved to the US for her doctorate. She aspired to pursue intellectual and cognitive neuropsychology. However, fate had some other plans in store. Dr Gopal encountered a case of sexual abuse involving a seven-year-old girl with whom she had grown acquainted. This experience brought the issue of child sexual abuse into sharp focus for her, redirecting her career trajectory.

Training professionals worldwide

In her three-decade career, the clinical psychologist has provided training to a diverse range of professionals, including foster parents, adoptive parents, administrators, judges in the US and the DRCongo Supreme Court, law enforcement agencies such as the FBI and police officers, attorneys, case managers, first responders, advocates, nonprofits, and ministries. She also trained government representatives of Albania, Uganda, and India.

“I have educated human trafficking experts and clergy on psychological trauma and issues concerning infants, children, adolescents, and adults,” tells the Indian-origin psychologist who is also associated as a consultant psychologist with SuDatta, an adoption agency in India that trains adoptive parents on helping their children come out of traumas.

[caption id="attachment_50928" align="aligncenter" width="706"] Indians in USA | Dr Kalyani Gopal | Global Indian Dr Kalyani Gopal at one of Illinois Psychological Association's Legislative Committee meeeting[/caption]

In fact, she introduced the term ‘Displacement Trauma’ to describe the intricate psychological effects that are the result of ‘frequent disruptions of bonds experienced by foster care youth and children separated from their parents’.

Awards and recognitions

In recognition of her extensive work, she was awarded the Indiana Lake County Award for Excellence in 2004 and the Indiana Attorney General’s Voices for Victims Award in 2015. She received the Congressman Danny T. Davis MEATF Medal in 2019 as the Top 20 Global Women of Excellence. In 2023, Dr Gopal earned the APA Presidential Citation Award for Human Rights.

Starting young

The psychologist discovered her calling when she was quite young - starting her journey at the age of 18 while engaging with human trafficking victims for a college research project.

At that time, she was pursuing her bachelor’s degree in India. One of her research works exposed her to the grim reality of young girls her age becoming victims of human trafficking. This revelation weighed heavily on her, even though she did not realise the severity of the problem completely, given her young age.

Later as a PhD scholar coming across a sexually abused little girl changed her career trajectory completely. She found herself drawn into the field of child sexual abuse.

“I was inspired by the trust placed in me by many other girls whom I met after that. They were victims too.” It was then that her professors in the US encouraged her to pursue the path of working with sexually abused children. Deeply immersed to uplift their lives as a young professional she had even started accompanying children she worked with when they needed to testify in court. The more she immersed herself in this work, the more intrigued and committed she became.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ioNF2a6NI0M

Strong initiatives

Dedicating many years to victims of sexual abuse and trafficking Dr Gopal came across many harrowing instances of exploitation. In one of the most gruesome cases, she came across a family with four children in Indiana where the parents were trafficking their kids by making them perform indecently on their home-based stage, earning $10 per person from people who came to watch the performance.

“My efforts dragged the parents to court and for the first time in history in Indiana, parents got a life sentence in jail for 56 years,” she shares. That was her first independent case.

That proved to be the beginning of her image as a messiah of children who were being exploited. She started getting cases of child sexual abuse from across the United States. “A lot of the perpetrators were in powerful positions, even relatives of judges and politicians.” But Dr Gopal stood strong to fight for justice for young victims.

Author of bestsellers

She went on to write bestsellers - ‘The Supportive Foster Parent’, and ‘Foster Parenting Step-by-Step: How to Nurture the Traumatized Child’ and co-edited, ‘Handbook of Sex Trafficking: Feminist Transnational Perspectives’. Dr. Gopal has published several workbooks on the Child Sexual Abuse Series, including the grief and loss workbook ‘In My Heart’.

[caption id="attachment_50936" align="aligncenter" width="403"] Indians in USA | Dr Kalyani Gopal | Global Indian One of Dr Kalyani Gopal's books[/caption]

Associations with the United Nations

The psychologist with a knack for writing went on to write a chapter titled ‘Reducing Human Trafficking by 2030 and Beyond’ for the United Nations book, ‘Behavioural Science in the Global Arena: Addressing Timely Issues at the United Nations and Beyond’.

She has also co-chaired the United Nations Psychology Day highlighting the role of psychology in addressing concerns of global importance.

Other Illustrious associations

Until recently Dr Gopal served on the APA Commission on Accreditation. She is on the boards of Indiana’s Lake County Child Protection Team and Lake County Child Fatality Team, served as the Chair for the Illinois Psychological Association’s Working Committee on Hate and Harassment, specialises in gender-based violence, and served as Chair of the IPA Women’s Section. She has been serving on the Board of Directors of the Society of Clinical Psychology, American Psychological Association, and as Div. 12 Advocacy Chair.

“As the President of Mid-America Psychological and Counseling Services, I oversaw the management of mental health clinics in Indiana and Illinois,” she shares.

[caption id="attachment_50927" align="aligncenter" width="602"] Indians in USA | Dr Kalyani Gopal | Global Indian Dr Kalyani Gopal with Eyes Open International founder, Harold D'Souza[/caption]

Also Read | Fight against Modern Slavery: How Harold D’Souza brought the derailed American Dream on track

Uniting nations through SAFECHR

Dr. Gopal’s nonprofit organisation, Safe Coalition for Human Rights (SAFECHR) was formed in 2014 in response to the realisation that the voices of victims in foster care needed to be heard.

The non-profit has been hosting annual events since 2014 raising the number of participant countries from 10 nations in 2014 to 73 nations in one of its latest conferences.

“SAFE Conferences bring together organisations from around the globe working ceaselessly to form collaborative national and international coalitions from rescue to the rehabilitation of victims of human trafficking and violations of human rights,” she informs.

SAFE iACT Program – first to get global accreditation

The ace psychologist has created an evidence-based, international credentialing program to certify advocates, clinicians, attorneys, and law enforcement as trainers in human trafficking which she has named as the SAFE iACT Program. Ever since its inception, she has facilitated the training of over 20,000 people from more than 10 countries. It has become the first programme to get accredited globally.

In December 2020, she developed and implemented a program, THRIVE for adults from ACEs populations (childhood vulnerabilities) to provide wrap-around therapeutic services in transitional supportive housing. Victims get discharged after getting stable employment.

During COVID-19, Dr Gopal also launched an e-learning school-based program called SAFE Schools for the prevention of high-risk behaviors among youth by improving resiliency and teaching socioemotional skills.

[caption id="attachment_50935" align="aligncenter" width="613"] Indians in USA | Dr Kalyani Gopal | Global Indian Dr Kalyani Gopal at a Consulate General nof India, Chicago event[/caption]

More psychologists required for victims of abuse

Highlighting the field of child sexual abuse, and human and labour trafficking that she is working in Dr Gopal points out that there are not enough psychologists who work in the area looking at it as a social work issue.

“Traffickers treat the victims so poorly that they lose their identity and develop fragmented personalities.” To address their problem effectively Dr Kalyani Gopal has even modified existing treatments which have proven to be effective.

She believes that people who are victims of trafficking and other abuses have been manipulated so much that they need psychological help to feel confident and pull themselves out of the situation.

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