Global Indianstory Global Indian ExclusiveHow young racers are putting Indian motorsports on the global map

How young racers are putting Indian motorsports on the global map

Written by: Charu Thakur

(May 5, 2023) The news of Indian racer Jehan Daruvala joining the reigning Formula 2 champions MP Motorsport for the 2023 season sent ripples of anticipation among motorsports fans, as he became the second Indian racer to join Kush Maini for the 2023 FIA Formula 2 Championship season as he races for Campos Racing. The sport, which found its popularity in India in the 90s, has spurred the racing aspirations of many.

Of course, the memory of Formula 1 great Michael Schumacher wheel to wheel with Jean Alesi in a tarmac crunch to the chequered flag at the 1995 Europe Grand Prix, is still among the most memorable moments for racing aficionados, etched in many minds. Finally, India too has taken to a sport that is not cricket. Many youngsters are training, learning, and being mentored to be the next Schumacher (or close), and it is a sign of the growing popularity of motorsports in India. Ten years after that 1995 scene, Coimbatore-born Narain Karthikeyan scripted history by becoming the first Indian to debut at Formula 1, inspiring the current generation to get behind the wheel of a mean machine that can go insanely fast around a corner.

Jehan Daruvala

The adrenaline rush, blind cuts, and need for speed keep every racer revving. However, the lack of sponsors and expensive gear often play spoilsport, thus nipping many dreams in the bud. Perhaps, this most expensive sport in the world is finding stable footing in India with a handful of young Indians revving up at the start line, and pushing the gas pedal on greater accomplishments.

The young blood

This April, 25-year-old Arjun Maini, and his team Haupt Racing got their first podium in the bronze category of the GT World Challenge Europe in Monza. Being his First Race of the Championship, getting a podium “meant a lot” to this young Indian racer.

The Bengaluru boy started with go-karts when he was eight, thanks to his racer dad Gautam Maini, who once participated in the national championships. It was in 2011 that the racer made headlines when he won the Sahara Force India’s One from a Billion talent, and since then there has been no looking back for this lad.

Arjun Maini

If Arjun is vrooming through unchartered territory with each of his races, his younger brother Kush Maini, too, is busy taking the legacy forward. He recently won his first-ever Formula 2 podium with a third-place finish in Melbourne. Sharing a photo, he tweeted, “P3 in today’s @Formula2 sprint race! Thank you @CamposRacing for the great car. Looking forward to the feature race.”

P3 in today’s @Formula2 sprint race! Thank you @CamposRacing for the great car. Looking forward to the feature race 🇮🇳👊🏽 pic.twitter.com/1659pCfrBH

— Kush Maini (@kmainiofficial) April 1, 2023

Following the footsteps of his brother, the 22-year-old began his journey with the national karting championship before graduating to cars in 2015. In no time, he made waves in the European racing circuits by competing in the Italian Formula 4 championship, and British Formula 3 championship. However, it was the 2021 Formula 3 Asian Championship where his team Mumbai Falcons did the unthinkable by clinching third place at Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi. “The year 2021 Asian F3 Championship has not been the smoothest of rides, had a lot of engine issues throughout the campaign and some unlucky moments but all the credit goes to @mumbaifalcons who never stopped believing in my capability and we finished off the championship strong with a podium. A historic moment for Indian motorsports and it’s been a pleasure to be a part of it,” he wrote on his Instagram after the historic podium finish.

A Universe of opportunities

If the Maini brothers found inspiration through their father, 20-year-old Formula 4 racer Yash Aradhya’s love for motorsport stemmed from his need for speed. The recipient of the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, Yash’s passion began at nine years of age, and despite no family background in motorsport, the teenager dived into the game out of sheer love. “I started with karting and here I am,” the Bengaluru-born teenager tells Global Indian.

Each year, new names crop up, and sponsors are at the heart of this expensive sport, and a deep bank balance too. “Motorsports is an expensive sport but I wouldn’t say the same anymore as opportunities are being given at the grassroots level. You have a chance of being picked up and taken forward as long as it’s backed by the performance that helps the sponsors and investors put their faith in you,” adds Yash, who has dreams of becoming a Formula 1 racer.

Yash Aradhya at French Formula 4 2020.

It’s been a decade since Indian racer Karun Chandok turned up the heat on the racing track in Formula 1, but new blood is now gearing up to test the waters by putting themselves on the biggest platform. It’s the plethora of opportunities that have made these youngsters confident in their skills and talent. “The new generation is quite lucky as there are so many opportunities for us in India, and the costs are low. We get the European standard of racing in India with European drivers coming in and giving us the best exposure and opportunity to prove ourselves and gain experience,” adds Aradhya.

Like Yash, Jehan Daruvala, too, was just nine when he found motorsports. Spanish Formula 1 driver Fernando Alonso kept Jehan glued to the Formula 1 track as a child. Now, a decade later, like his racing hero, he is all set to knock on the doors of Formula 1. At the cusp of achieving his childhood dream, the 24-year-old has come a long way. From excelling in karting championships across Europe in 2013 to transitioning to cars in 2015, he has proven his mettle time and again. So much so that he has found a fan in Arjuna Award-winner and racer Gaurav Gill. “Jehan is doing great at the world level in Formula racing,” says Gaurav Gill, who won the Asia Pacific Rally Championship thrice and Indian National Rally Championship six times.

The future is bright

It was in the early 2000s that Gill started competing at the national level, and in the past two decades, this 41-year-old racer has seen the Indian motorsport scene evolve. “Motorsport has evolved from being a hobby to a career sport, especially after my Arjuna Award. The younger generation can now look at it being a full-time job/sport,” says Gill.

Gill, who calls motorsports an ever-evolving sport, is excited about the future. “New technology, new drivers, and hopefully more corporate involvement are what we can expect in the future. We need to break away from cricket being sold as the only sport in India. We see so many Olympians now, and I hope to see lots more motorsport engagements soon,” says the racer who has started his school to groom aspiring racers to hone their skills.

As more and more Indian-origin youth foray into the world of motorsports, India is finally ready to get past the chequered flag once again in the international circuit. One race at a time.

Follow Yash Aaradhya on Instagram
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Published on 05, May 2023

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NYC dancer Jainil Mehta twirls into millions of hearts with the #MenInSkirts Campaign”

(September 14, 2023) How many of us are comfortable with dancing in public? And how many would do so without inhibition, to break gender stereotypes for art? 23-year-old Jainil Mehta has captivated Instagram, thanks not only due to his great dance moves but also because of his fashion choices! He has taken the streets of New York by storm, matching his steps to Bollywood numbers, and rocking them in colourful skirts. Mehta’s dance to Jume Re Gori from Gangubai Kathiawadi went viral with over 17 million views, while many of his reels including Saami Saami from Pushpa were widely appreciated. Mehta’s journey is much more than making an Instagram reel. It is about living a dream, shedding centuries old stereotypes and inspiring others to follow their passion, no matter the hurdles on the way. That he gets a million likes in the process is an added bonus! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jainil Mehta (@jainil_dreamtodance) Dancing star Jainil Mehta had quite a sheltered life due to health concerns which restricted his activities and diet. “Despite my initial shyness as a child, I never compromised on my deep-seated love for dance, which has been a

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Dancing star

Jainil Mehta had quite a sheltered life due to health concerns which restricted his activities and diet. “Despite my initial shyness as a child, I never compromised on my deep-seated love for dance, which has been a significant part of my life from a young age.” he recalls, in an interview with Global Indian.

At 18, the youngster relocated to the United States to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance at the USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance, part of the University of Southern California. Subsequently, he moved to New York City to work with the Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company, specializing in Contemporary dance styles. Currently, I am a freelance dancer, performer, teacher, and choreographer.

From Garba nights to the Glorya Kaufman School

As a Gujarati, Navratri has always held a special place in Mehta’s heart. “The festival's vibrant colors, richness, and the joy of Garba have consistently appealed to me. My dance journey began at the age of 5 when my mother enrolled me in Garba Folk Dance classes.” he reminiscences. He later transitioned to Shiamak Davar International, where he spent 12 years honing his skills in ballet, contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, and Bollywood.

One memory which puts a smile to the dancer’s face is recalling the times in his childhood, when he often put on living room performances for my family. He smiles, “I distinctly remember one performance where, in the middle of a twirl, I lifted one of my skirts above my head, holding it with my hands. My grandfather was so delighted that he gave me 500 rupees. This skirt performance was fueled by my fascination for skirts.”

[caption id="attachment_33068" align="aligncenter" width="602"] Jainil Mehta[/caption]

Embracing his true self

However, as Mehta grew older, he felt some uneasiness and insecurity about dancing in a skirt. It wasn't until he moved to New York in 2021 that he embraced wearing skirts again for his dance performances. “My first adult performance in a skirt was, fittingly, a Garba performance dedicated to Navratri, focusing on the theme of unified love transcending gender boundaries.” he shares.

The concept for his first video came during Navratri, when he wanted to show the love between Radha and Krishna as one. In the video there are two guys wearing skirts and Mehta was one of them. “You cannot identify who is Radha and Krishna. And that was the whole magic of that.” he notes. That video birthed his popular dance series #MenInSkirts.

Blurring boundaries

Twirling in brightly coloured skirts, Jainil Mehta has chosen the garment as his signature outfit. “I chose skirts for their flowing and graceful qualities. When I dance, the skirt acts like wings, adding a beautiful texture to my movements with its flares.” he says. He picks up skirts based on multiple criteria - the song he is performing, the vibe of the music and the texture of the garment.

When Mehta first started performing in public places wearing a skirt, he was quite apprehensive about people's reactions. Therefore, his initial skirt dance videos were shot in a studio, even though people would ultimately view them on Instagram. He says, “However, my love for outdoor performances gradually made me more carefree about dancing in public while wearing a skirt. Building confidence took time, but I now relish the experience, despite occasional challenges like traffic and weather conditions. Dancing in a natural environment is truly exhilarating for me.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jainil Mehta (@jainil_dreamtodance)

Emerging stronger

With his videos garnering millions of views, not all reactions are positive. There are homophobic comments as well as those who belittle the dancer. Mehta’s reaction is matter-of-fact and he says, “While I have encountered negative and hateful comments more recently, I choose to focus on the positive feedback and consider these negative comments as distractions. Many people draw inspiration from my choice, which fuels my determination to keep going.”

The artist’s biggest challenge initially was reaching his audience effectively. He states, “There were periods when my videos struggled to reach the intended viewers. Over time, I've learned that conveying my message in various ways can resonate with the audience.”

His confidence is evident as one scrolls down his social media feed. He appears more comfortable, in sync with his passion and at ease with the camera. Even the content has transformed – while initially, it primarily revolved around dancing, now he shares insights into his life, preferences, attire, and experiences.

Exploring the profound through art

Ask him why he does what he does and Mehta says, “If even one person is influenced by my journey, I am eager to share it.” A dedicated workaholic, his passion for dancing has been a constant driving force throughout his life and his current focus is to travel and establish a professional dance education program in India that higher education opportunities for students pursuing dance as a career.

[caption id="attachment_33069" align="aligncenter" width="683"] Jainil Mehta in NYC[/caption]

Fueled by passion and creative, Mehta’s journey is an inspiration. Navigating life's challenges, seeking truth and self-realization, his medium of expression is a profound exploration not only for himself but for his millions of viewers.

His advice to youngsters who want to follow their dreams? With passion, it's crucial to maintain a degree of dispassion to develop compassion. Continue doing what you love and invest in your training. Turning your dreams into reality is not a mere fantasy; it's a goal you can actively work towards achieving.

Follow Jainil Mehta on Instagram

Reading Time: 5 mins

Maanasa Mendu empowers the world: A teen’s mission for global electricity access

(December 20, 2023) She was all of 14 when Ohio-born Maanasa Mendu made it to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, making her the youngest person ever to achieve the feat. But behind this recognition was an invention that could be a potential answer to the global energy crisis. The same innovation won her the grand prize in the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge and $25,000. It all began when she first visited her grandparents in rural India for her summer break, and witnessed persistent blackouts. Seeing children huddled over a single kerosene lamp made her sit up and take notice of the grave issue at hand, and decided to make a difference. That's when she designed Harvest – an energy harvesting device that combines piezoelectric effect that harvests energy from sun, wind and precipitation. [caption id="attachment_34746" align="aligncenter" width="549"] Maanasa Mendu[/caption] The trip to India played an pivotal role in helping her search for answers. Upon her research, she spent hours at length digging deep into information and found that 88 percent of the energy supply comes from non-renewable sources, which are not only harmful to the environment but also depleting. A renewable source was the answer. However, its

ation and found that 88 percent of the energy supply comes from non-renewable sources, which are not only harmful to the environment but also depleting. A renewable source was the answer. However, its high cost played a spoiler. That's when Maanasa decided to design an "inexpensive and potentially globally application energy solution."

"Imagine a place where life ends after dark, where there are no electric lights for school work or refrigeration for perishables. This is not part of some dystopian society – it’s a part of our world today. Over 1.2 billion people lack access to electricity," Maanasa said in TedX talk.

When she was 11 years old, she learned about something called the piezoelectric effect, which is when certain materials create electricity when pressure is applied. She discovered this while reading about a railway station in Japan with floors that produce electricity from people walking on them. This got her excited about finding a renewable energy solution.

After a year of researching and reading, she got the idea for a device shaped like a leaf that could harness energy from the wind and rain. The inspiration came to her while watching tree branches sway during a storm. These branches looked like piezoelectric materials to her—tiny devices that generate power through vibration. This motivated her to start working on her first design.

Initially, she wanted to focus only on using the wind for power, but she ended up creating a prototype that can harness energy from both the sun and the wind, as well as the vibrations from raindrops. Her device has three solar "leaves" that act like solar panels but also move with the wind and rain. She built the prototype using recycled materials for only $5. Her design won her the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge.

"The issue with the energy crisis lies not in the fact that we lack ideas or solutions to solve it, but rather in the fact that we are unable to get these solutions to the people who need it the most,” said Maanasa.

When she started designing the device, she was only thinking about using the wind for energy, especially in cities where traditional wind turbines don't work well. However, as she worked on it, she realized that there are other sources of untapped energy around us, like the sun and rain. She thought, "If my device only depends on one specific thing, the amount of power it produces might change throughout the day. But if it depends on multiple things, like how sunny it is, how fast the wind is blowing, and whether it's raining, all these factors together could make a more steady source of power with more energy."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MEDvTJT5o7Q

Maanasa reveals that Harvest can power a 15watt LED bulb after three hours of charging. It took her three years to come up with Harvest, that has the potential to be the answer to the global energy crisis, and she says that it was curiosity that led her to the solution. Currently studying Neuroscience and Global Health and Health Policy at Harvard College, Maanasa is an aspiring physician and public health researcher. Apart from developing a renewable energy device to address energy poverty, she is also identifying video-based biomarkers for delirium, exploring heart-brain neural circuits in zebrafish, and studying cancer incidence among people with HIV in Botswana.

Follow Maanasa Mendu on X

Building CITTA: How Akanksha and Tanay Sharma are shaping baby care in India

(February 21, 2024) The baby care industry in India has seen significant growth over the last few years, driven by increased consumer awareness rising disposable incomes, and is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 14.02 percent from 2022 to 2027. Parents want safe, natural and cruelty-free products for their babies, as overall trends move towards healthier, more sustainable lifestyles. Indian brands have risen to the challenge, bringing modern innovation together with a deep understanding of local and cultural nuances, and India's age-old traditional remedies. CITTA, co-founded by 24-year-old Akanksha Sharma, her mom, Monisha Sharma and brother, Tanay Sharma, is a Pune-based baby care brand that reached a turnover of Rs 1.2 crore within two years. [caption id="attachment_36018" align="aligncenter" width="613"] Akanksha and Tanay Sharma with their mother, Monisha[/caption] ‘Nushke’ to building a brand When Akanksha was studying in the US, her mom and grandma would call her all the time, lovingly giving her advice or ‘nushke’ like 'drink turmeric milk,' and 'use rosewater when you're out in the sun'. Around this time, a well-known baby care brand received a lot of bad press for using unsafe ingredients in their baby powder. Akanksha, who was always entrepreneurial, teamed up with her

you're out in the sun'. Around this time, a well-known baby care brand received a lot of bad press for using unsafe ingredients in their baby powder. Akanksha, who was always entrepreneurial, teamed up with her mom and brother to create a safer alternative, and CITTA came to be. Both siblings were abroad - Akanksha was studying Apparel Industry Management at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in LA, while Tanay was doing a Bachelor's at the University of Toronto. Eventually, they returned home to build their business.

Business in their blood

"I was born and raised in a business family," Akanksha tells Global Indian. "I have witnessed their struggles, growth and expansion. Entrepreneurship is in my blood. My parents are my biggest inspiration since I saw them during their struggling years and I see them now and all that they have accomplished. It pushes me to do better everyday." A quiet and shy child, Akanksha grew into a confident young adult, going on to become head girl at Lexicon School in Pune, where she also participated in co-curricular activities, played basketball, volleyball, took part in debates, elocutions and lots more.

Akanksha and Tanay, who are currently 24 and 22 respectively, grew up in a joint family of 10 members where struggles were common in the early years. "I would see all the adults in my family work very hard till late. They made a decision to start a school together in which there were only 16 students in the first year, out of which three were me and my two sisters," she says. Today, the school has 10,000 students, and holds a valuable lesson for Akanksha and Tanay. "Anything is possible with consistent hard work and dedication," says Tanay. "It pushed me to do better. I got into the University of Toronto and did my undergrad there along with running my own small business."

CITTA began with a mission to create safe and nurturing baby care products. As they researched the industry, they found it needed gentle but effective skincare solutions for both infants and their parents. They expanded into the skincare segment too, along with baby care products. "We are proud to be free from toxins, harsh chemicals, parabens, sulphates, silicones, talc, mineral oils, allergens, petroleum jelly and other potential irritants," the duo say. "This ensures that are products are gentle on sensitive baby skin." The CITTA product range includes a Moisturizing Baby Balm which uses eight natural oils, including Shea butter and vitamin E. Their talc-free baby oil is made with corn, oats and kaolin, which prevents rashes. Their foaming baby wash and baby shampoo are soap-free and tear-free.

Made for the Indian consumer

As homegrown baby care brands now flood the market, CITTA caters to the specific demands of the Indian consumer. "Whether it's developing eco-friendly packaging, incorporating advanced technologies into our products or introducing unique formulations, we strive to set ourselves apart in a crowded market," Akanksha and Tanay explain. They invest heavily in sustainability, ensuring that every part of the supply chain is rooted in integrity, from the ethical sourcing of raw materials to minimizing their carbon footprint every step of the way.

Building CITTA came with its share of challenges and successes. "Each contributed valuable lessons that will significantly shape our plans and strategies moving forward," they say. There have also been numerous shifts in consumer preferences and lifestyles, which has taught them to invest more in R&D practices as they navigate the complexities of the global supply chain. "Disruptions brought about by external factors have emphasised the need for resilience and adaptability," say the siblings. "We have learned to proactively diversify our sourcing strategies, build strategic partnerships and implement agile inventory management systems." They are also working on enhancing their online presence, creating user-friendly interfaces and building robust e-commerce infrastructure.

The sibling journey

Akanksha and Tanay remain at the forefront of CITTA and use their sibling rapport to their advantage. "It's fun and nice," Akanksha smiles. "Tanay, as a brother and working partner, is always supportive. Whether in a meeting, during decision -making or facing any difficulties, you always know that there's support from someone who is equally invested. Despite my emotional nature, Tanay is calm, so we complement each other." Arguments are par for the course, but those are always sorted out in the end.

"Tanay agrees."I had always pictured working with my sister when I was younger and I really like doing so because she gives me immense support and strength," he smiles. "I get to be my goofy self around her and we get to laugh a lot together," he laughs. They strike a balance by talking shop only at the office and just being siblings at home.

It's a unique dynamic that has made for an exciting and fulfilling journey, bolstered by a deep understanding of each other and complementing one another's strengths and shortcomings. "There is a natural synergy that goes beyond business - it's a family affair infused with shared passion and dedication," say the siblings. "We celebrate victories together, learn from setbacks and constantly push each other to innovate. It's not just a partnership, it's a shared adventure that makes every success even sweeter."

Follow Akanksha Sharma and CITTA on Instagram

Reading Time: 6 mins

PM Rashtriya Bal Puraskar awardee Shreenabh Agrawal is a man on a mission

(January 31, 2024) Shreenabh Agrawal is a powerhouse of talent. His work, spread across diverse areas, stands testimony to that. Now 20-years-old, Agrawal has authored two books, wrote over 200 scientific articles in various publications, is an innovator who presented his work through seven research papers and a coder who has contributed to multiple projects. And all this is only one part of what he does. His scholarly achievements aside, the youngster has positively impacted many lives with his extraordinary ideas. To top it all, he is the recipient of the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2021, the highest civilian honour for children in India. “Physics, Quantum Technology and the latest developments in the world of Robotics and AI interest me the most,” smiles Shreenabh, in an exclusive chat with Global Indian. [caption id="attachment_35559" align="aligncenter" width="618"] Shreenabh Agrawal[/caption] Currently pursuing a degree at IISC Bangalore, a course which involves a comprehensive study of the subjects mentioned above, Shreenabh’s diverse interests is what makes him stand out among the rest. “Being presented an award by PM Narendra Modi was a moment of immense honor and pride. It reflected recognition for my contributions, particularly in the field of innovation,” says the 20-year-old. The experience further

verse interests is what makes him stand out among the rest. “Being presented an award by PM Narendra Modi was a moment of immense honor and pride. It reflected recognition for my contributions, particularly in the field of innovation,” says the 20-year-old. The experience further motivated him to pursue excellence in his endeavours and contribute meaningfully to the society.

He was presented the award for his achievements in the field of agriculture, which benefitted thousands of farmers across Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. Shreenabh’s innovation “Neer Setu farming” helped reduce the consumption of water manifolds leading to an increase in the productivity of crops. Both farmers and scientists lauded the innovation.

Books

His first book, "Thank you Modiji," was published in 2015, followed by "A Young Explorer's Journey of Science" in 2017.

“Currently, I am considering ideas for a third book,” informs Shreenabh, who has written over 200 scientific articles in Twinkle Star Magazine of the Hitavada, Science India Magazine, and Science Reporter. These articles covered a wide range of scientific topics and have been recognized in the India Book of Records and Asia Book of Records.

His essays on Global issues have won awards at competitions organized by GOI Peace Foundation, Japan; NASA, Pendle War Poetry Competition, London, UN Information Centre for India and Bhutan, Korean Cultural Centre India, Embassy of the Republic of Korea; PRL-ISRO, Spaceport India Foundation, etc.

As a coder, Shreenabh Agrawal contributed to multiple projects. “I can code in Python, Java, C, Arduino, and Web Dev Languages. I am also proficient in Cloud Computing and Machine Learning. I have developed two open source projects as well,” says the multi-talented youngster, who along with a team of like-minded Math enthusiasts, also organized IGMO 2020, which is the world's second-largest virtual math open.

Lock Bore Hole Protection

One of his inventions is the triple lock bore hole protection lid. He came up with this invention after coming across multiple reports of children losing their lives after falling into open borewells. Since 2009, at least 40 children have lost their lives after rescue operations failed.

“The Triple Lock Bore Hole Protection Lid was designed to prevent accidents and save lives by securing bore holes. The innovation aims to provide a robust solution to an often-overlooked problem, emphasizing safety and protection,” points out Shreenabh, who was moved by the gruesome and slow deaths of children.

As an innovator, he has published and presented his innovative research work (7 research papers) on reputed National and International platforms. He even represented India at the International Science and Engineering Fair, 2020.

Oldy-Goldy club

Among his humanitarian missions is the Oldy-Goldy club, which he came up with when he noticed the plight of elderly citizens who felt ignored and shunned by the society. “I visited 16 libraries and convinced them to allow their facilities to be used for a weekly life skills session. I requested the elderly citizens to make use of their experience and knowledge and conduct weekly sessions for children.”

Awards

He was invited to Tokyo, Japan, by the Goi Peace Foundation for an award in the international essay contest for his project "Oldy Goldy Clubs." Adjudged first among participants from more than 162 countries, it was a significant achievement for him. He traveled to Sweden on being selected for the Elite Scholarship camp organized by IVL Sweden, which he describes as a truly life-changing experience. “These international exposures have enriched my perspectives and contributed to my personal and academic growth,” says Shreenabh, who also won the prestigious Princess Diana Award for humanitarian work.

His other awards and accolades include world rank one in International Youth Maths Challenge, nomination as Youth ambassador for Radio Chico Switzerland among others.

Nagpur boy

Born and brought up in Nagpur in December 2003, Shreenabh astonished his parents, Dr. Moujesh Agrawal and Dr. Tinu Agrawal, with his razor-sharp memory, creativity and unique abilities ever since he was a three year old. He could memorise and recount lengthy and complex scriptural passages and churn out stunning pieces of art.

“My parents serve as constant inspirations with their distinguished careers in shaping the younger generation by way of research, developing new products to simplify learning and mentoring,” says the youngster, who studied from Class 1 to Class 12 in an ICSE board school, Chanda Devi Saraf School and junior college, Nagpur.

While Dr. Moujesh Agrawal is a consultant for ICAD group of Institutes in Nagpur and a profound Mathematician who trains students worldwide for prestigious Maths Olympiads, Dr. Tinu Agrawal is a researcher and director of Prarambh Advanced Training and Research Centre.

Academics

As a student, he displayed his academic proficiency by securing the All India Rank 3 (99.2%) in his ICSE Grade 10 Board Examinations and All India Rank 136 in KVPY SA. In Grade 11 (ISC), he again scored 99% marks and went on to secure World Rank 1 in IYMC 2020.

“My interest in science sparked early on and was nurtured through various experiences,” says Shreenabh, who cleared the KVPY exam in class 11, which led to admission in the UG BS program at IISC Bangalore. He completed two online courses in Physics from IIT Kanpur. “These courses ignited my passion for physics and contributed significantly to my academic journey.”

He also won the title of Himalayan-2016 by acing the Vidyarthi Vigyan Manthan (VVM), a scientific talent search examination held at IIT Delhi.

“My interests extend beyond academics,” informs the prodigy, who has won a gold medal in the IGEM competition, worked on robotics and AI projects with companies like Open AI and served as the Corporate Relationship Committee head for Pravega, India's largest fest. “I’m inspired by the achievements and values of legendary Indian Scientists, which makes me strive for excellence in my endeavours.”

Daily routine at IISC Bangalore

His daily routine is a balance of rigorous academic commitments, involvement in extracurricular activities like leading the Corporate Relationship Committee for Pravega, and personal pursuits. “The experience at IISC has been transformative, providing a holistic learning environment and shaping my academic and personal growth.”

Future plans

Shreenabh Agrawal says his future plans revolve around research in Physics. “I aim to continue my pursuits in Robotics, Quantum Technology at world's best labs as my summer internship projects in near future. Then, I would go for PhD while exploring opportunities for further academic and professional growth,” he informs.

Diverse interests

Beyond science, Shreenabh has diverse interests. “I enjoy exploring books related to finance, complementing my core subjects,” he says. Music too holds a special place. “I love playing the keyboard and exploring various genres.” Travel is another passion. “ I've had the opportunity to visit Tokyo, Japan, and Sweden for international awards and scholarship programs, both of which were life-changing experiences,” shares the youngster.

Madhalasa Iyer: The Princeton student merging literature and science to change mindsets

(March 15, 2024) Indian-origin, Texas-based Madhalasa Iyer was appalled when she learned that in her district, a 13-year-old African-American boy was forced by his peers to drink his own urine. They even recorded the inhuman incident while yelling racial slurs at the victim. As she read the news and discussed the hate crime with her friends, Madhalasa learned of many more instances of discrimination and racism in her own district. In 2019, to help change societal mindsets, she founded Team Motley, an initiative emphasising the importance of solidarity for human equality. As part of her drive, she wrote a book titled 'Motley' to drive home the message of social equality. Later, the scope of her organisation expanded to include advocacy for environmental action. In addition to her work on social discrimination and the environment crisis, Madhalasa is working on a manuscript on phytomedicine to emphasise the benefits of ancient medicinal techniques. [caption id="attachment_36623" align="aligncenter" width="539"] Madhalasa Iyer[/caption] The author, researcher, speaker, and environmentalist has received several awards for her multifaceted talent, including recognition for her writing by the Alliance for Artists and Writers and the New York Life Foundation, as one of the six teen artists and writers chosen across

| Global Indian" width="539" height="539" /> Madhalasa Iyer[/caption]

The author, researcher, speaker, and environmentalist has received several awards for her multifaceted talent, including recognition for her writing by the Alliance for Artists and Writers and the New York Life Foundation, as one of the six teen artists and writers chosen across the US.

In 2023, as one of the Coca-Cola Scholars, Madhalasa Iyer was awarded a $20,000 college scholarship for her contributions to bring positive change in her community. She is currently pursuing neuroscience at Princeton University.

“I work on things that I am genuinely passionate about and this keeps me motivated,” Madhalasa tells Global Indian.

What does Team Motley do?

As an international initiative, Team Motley distributes books, stories, and artworks promoting acceptance, inclusion, and biodiversity to children and youth worldwide. These materials are created by teenagers who aim to share positive messages on these themes with children across the globe.

“We started by publishing our own children’s book, Motley, which discusses discrimination on a broader level, seeking to combat racism and bias in our society,” Madhalasa shares.

She and her team have successfully established Team Motley’s chapters in Texas and Washington State in the US, Nigeria, India, Pakistan, and Ismailia and Cairo in Egypt.

Talking about Motley’s other branch, environmental advocacy, Madhalasa remarks, “It was already a big part of my life considering I grew up watching my grandmother build our own greenhouse. I have participated in environmental advocacy since 2018 but added it to Team Motley in 2022.”

[caption id="attachment_36605" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Cover image of Madhalasa Iyer's book Motley[/caption]

Supported by grants from nonprofits such as Discovery Education, American Service Alliance, the Hershey Foundation, USC Shoah, and the National Century Foundation, as well as through community fundraising, Team Motley now has more than 2,500 participants in five countries.

Emphasising on changing mindsets for making life of youngsters easier, Madhalasa remarks, “Children are often the most susceptible to society’s opinions and social influences. Therefore, building a community of acceptance will promote inclusion for future generations, regardless of their skin colour or ethnic background.”

For its impactful work, her Team Motley has received several awards and recognition from organisations such as the Plano ISD Diversity and Inclusion Board.

Madhalasa attributes the success of her initiatives to her team members at Team Motley.

Merging science with writing

Although Madhalasa is currently pursuing Neuroscience at Princeton, she is passionate about creative writing as well. She has attended the Iowa Young Writers Studio and the Sarah Lawrence Writing Camp (sponsored by the National Anthony Quinn Foundation with a merit-based scholarship). In these programmes, the budding writer got an opportunity to develop her writing skills by garnering tips and advice from the luminaries from the world of writing.

Merging her interest in science and her passion for writing, Madhalasa Iyer has published scientific work at IEEE, Journal of Student Research, Mentoring in Medicine Journal, and the Curieux Academic Journal.

[caption id="attachment_36611" align="aligncenter" width="593"] Madhalasa Iyer while receiving an award[/caption]

With the purpose of bringing the benefits of phytomedicine (herbal medicine with therapeutic and healing properties) to the fore; she is working on a manuscript on the subject. “It explores use of phytomedicine techniques in the ancient Chinese traditional medicinal practices, Vedic Indian scriptures, Native American treatments and mediaeval medicine practices,” she mentions.

An avid researcher, Madhalasa has presented her scientific research findings at esteemed platforms like the International SusTech Conference, the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the Southern California Undergraduate Conference (SCCUR), the Harvard Research Club at NYC, the Harvard Science Research Conference, and the Texas Science and Humanities Symposium. She has also given talks at TEDx and EarthX (world's largest green gathering held annually around Earth Day in Dallas, Texas).

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Writing for change

For her work as an author, environmentalist and social justice advocate Madhalasa has been recognised by national organisations of the US like the Discovery Education, YoungArts, Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, Leyla Beban Author’s Foundation, Anthony Quinn Foundation, Century Foundation, University of Washington, New York Life Foundation, National Rifle Association (NRA), the Coca-Cola Foundation, and Elks Organization among others.

Her literary works (prose and poetry) have been published in journals like the Cathartic Literary Magazine, The Weight Journal, Scars Publications, Literary Yard, Poetry Nation, Plain View Magazine, Bluefire Magazine, amongst others.

The numerous awards and recognition that she received for writing, has motivated Madhalasa in using the power of the pen to cultivate change. “Each of us have the ability to use our words or work of art to illustrate positive messages and ideas to our community and we should use it” she mentions.

[caption id="attachment_36610" align="aligncenter" width="423"] Madhalasa Iyer after receiving one of her awards[/caption]

Stronger than Hate Challenge

In 2021 when Madhalasa was still in high school, she bagged first place and won a $6000 scholarship in the ‘Stronger Than Hate Challenge’. Created to inspire middle school and high school students, the annual competition is conducted for students aged 13 and up in the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada.

Since the event emphasises the role of social-emotional learning in empowering students to overcome hate, and encourages young people to use their voices to connect with the community, Madhalasa had got interested in participating.

Inspired by, Madhalasa had created the multimedia poem titled ‘Where Were You’ emphasising the significance of standing up for what’s right in order to stop history from repeating itself.

“If we can all speak out against discrimination, our war on division the holocaust survivor Tamara Branitsky is won and acts such as genocide and atrocities would only be present in the pages of history,” Madhalasa believes.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4n0s0fmVH-s

Rising above odds

Although the Texas-based youngster has written several literary pieces and scientific research papers, and given talks at platforms like EarthX and TEDx, her journey of developing into a confident communicator has not been a smooth ride.

She was born in California but spent the first eight years of her life in Nepal and India. As an eight-year-old with a strong Indian accent, when Madhalasa moved to the US, she was looked down upon for her cadence and tone. “During my early schooling years, I struggled at grammar and writing tests. It took me years of continual accent therapy to rebuild the confidence that I had lost,” Madhalasa shares. But a creative bent of mind, dedication towards self-improvement, and love for reading kept her going in her self-enhancement initiatives.

“A combination of determination and support from my parents, family, and friends enabled me to overcome my speech and writing challenges, ultimately paving a way for me to become an author and a speaker,” she remarks.

[caption id="attachment_36609" align="aligncenter" width="645"] Madhalasa Iyer with Scholastic Art and Writing Awards[/caption]

With the attitude and experience of rising above challenges, Madhalasa Iyer aspires to create a world ‘where equality isn’t a question and where people sow the seeds of environmental action for the betterment of the future generation’. “As a citizen of the world, I wish to be an active contributor towards these changes.” She signs off.

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