Dancing her way to glory: Vriti Gujral is taking Kathak to new heights
Compiled by: Team GI Youth
(December 11, 2022) It was just to attend a rehearsal for the upcoming event that Padma Vibhushan, Pandit Birju Maharaj – one of the most eminent Kathak exponents – had come to Delhi that day. However, the events that unfolded gave the country a young and exceptionally talented Kathak dancer, Vriti Gujral, who is now taking this Indian classical dance form to the world. Impressed by the grace of then eleven-year-old Vriti, Pandit Birju Maharaj invited the young artist to perform during his show at the World Cultural Festival – a solo, seven-minute-long Kathak recital.
Vriti Gujral, Kathak exponent
The dancer, who is 16-years-old now, has since performed on various national and international stages and has won numerous awards, including the prestigious Global Child Prodigy Award. “I have been performing kathak for the past eight years. So, it is like a part of me now. It’s not that when I practice kathak only then I’m into dance, but I instead carry it into my everyday life. I have learned many things from the dance form, and it undoubtedly affects my life,” the young Global Indian said during an interview.
Born to dance
Vriti’s journey as a dancer started at the age of six, when her mother enrolled her in a music institute. “My mother always wanted me to explore myself in areas beyond academics as well. So, she took me to an institute where they gave three classes – western dance, piano, and kathak. I liked the other courses, but I was fascinated by them when I saw dancers wearing ghungroo and performing kathak. That was precisely what started the spark in me. When I started learning it, I became more passionate about it. I began exploring other aspects of kathak, such as the chakras, footwork, and abhinaya,” the young dancer shared.
Soon, the youngster took to various stages and won the hearts of many maestros. However, it took a major turn in 2016, during the auditions for World Cultural Festival. Over 37,000 artists performed in Delhi during this festival, however, it was Vriti who grabbed the attention of Pt Birju Maharaj. However, all was not so rosy. The long rehearsal hours took a toll on the young dancer’s health. But, Vriti was determined to brave all the odds. On the day of her performance, the dancer went on the stage with a bandaged blister, her feet throbbing in pain. “I remember my blisters were painful. But once I was on the stage, and the spotlight fell on me, I forgot all about it,” she shared. Her performance at the Vasantosav festival ended with thunderous applause and earned her invitations to several other dance festivals.
Following her passion
Vriti’s perfection of mudras and flawless expression earned Vriti a scholarship from the Centre of Cultural Resource and Training (CCRT), India. In 2020, the youngster received the Global Child Prodigy Award, for her exceptional dancing talent in Kathak. A student of esteemed kathak exponent, Pandit Barun Banerjee, Vriti dreams of becoming a professional dancer, just like her idol Pt. Birju Maharaj, and take kathak to a level where today’s generation can not only enjoy it but also aspire for it.
“I want to be a professional classical dancer and a choreographer. I aim to take the Kathak dance form to the biggest international stages. We know that the young generation finds it difficult to relate to kathak and thinks it’s boring. I wish to break these stereotypes and ensure that they relate to it as it’s our heritage, and we have to take it ahead,” the young dancer said.
(November 22, 2024) Achyuta Rajaram, a 17-year-old senior at Phillips Exeter Academy, stood on stage in Washington, D.C., shocked as his name was announced as the top winner of the 2024 Regeneron Science Talent Search. His project, which developed a method to identify the decision-making components of artificial intelligence (AI) systems, earned him the competition’s $250,000 prize. It was a moment of recognition for years of disciplined effort in understanding machine learning and pushing its boundaries. “When they called my name, I honestly thought I might faint,” Rajaram recalled. “By the time they announced the first runner-up, I had fully accepted that I wasn’t in the top ten. I was genuinely happy for my friends and ready to celebrate their success.” Instead, the recognition was his. The Regeneron Science Talent Search, often referred to as the “Junior Nobel Prize,” is one of the most prestigious STEM competitions in the United States. It challenges high school seniors to develop innovative projects while demonstrating academic versatility and depth. More than 2,000 students applied in 2024, competing in what organizers described as the largest entry pool since the 1960s. Addressing a key problem in AI research Rajaram’s project addresses a key problem in
Rajaram’s project addresses a key problem in AI research: understanding how models process information. While AI systems have become ubiquitous—generating images, diagnosing diseases, or driving cars—their decision-making processes often remain opaque. This lack of transparency creates risks, from unfair biases to dangerous misclassifications.
Rajaram’s method automates the identification of which parts of a model contribute to its decisions. “You can think of it like identifying which neurons in a human brain light up when you look at an image,” he explained. “Except here, it’s an algorithm, not a brain.”
This work is particularly relevant to image recognition models, which are used in applications ranging from facial recognition to autonomous vehicles. Rajaram tested his code on an open-source AI model and found that it helped resolve a significant flaw: misclassifying images when conflicting text appeared nearby. For instance, an image of a red traffic light labeled with the word “green” would sometimes be incorrectly identified as green. Rajaram’s method pinpointed and addressed the problem by isolating the components responsible for the misclassification.
“As AI models grow more complex, analyzing them manually becomes nearly impossible,” he said. “My goal was to create a tool that could automate this process, making these systems more reliable and safer to use.”
Early Influences and Support
Rajaram credits his interest in computer science to his parents, who both worked in software engineering. “My parents met while working at IBM in India,” he said. “From a young age, they encouraged me to be around computers and learn coding.” This foundation gave him the confidence to dive into complex concepts and experiment with emerging technologies.
At Phillips Exeter Academy, Rajaram quickly stood out for his academic curiosity and leadership. He co-leads the school’s physics, chemistry, and chess clubs while maintaining a rigorous schedule. His interest in AI grew during his freshman year when he noticed that much of the research focused on natural language processing, such as chatbots, rather than image-based AI models.
“I saw a gap in the research and wanted to explore it further,” he said. “Images are central to so many AI applications, yet we don’t fully understand how these models interpret visual data.”
Rajaram’s project required more than curiosity—it demanded time, discipline, and expert mentorship. He worked closely with Dr. Sarah Schwettmann at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, spending three days a week in her lab. Each week, he dedicated 25 to 30 hours to refining his code and testing its applications.
“Dr. Schwettmann’s guidance was invaluable,” he said. “She helped me think critically about the practical implications of my work and encouraged me to push the boundaries of what the project could achieve.”
[caption id="attachment_40516" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] The winners of the 2024 Regeneron Science Talent Search[/caption]
A Practical Impact
The practical applications of Rajaram’s research extend far beyond the competition. His method could be used to improve the transparency of AI systems in industries like healthcare, finance, and transportation. For example, in medical imaging, his approach could help identify how algorithms diagnose diseases, ensuring that decisions are based on relevant features rather than spurious correlations.
“There’s so much at stake when it comes to AI,” he said. “Understanding how these systems work is the first step toward making them better.”
Rajaram is already looking ahead to the next phase of his research. After graduating from Phillips Exeter Academy, he plans to attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he will major in computer science. His goal is to apply his method to a broader range of AI models, particularly those used in critical applications like autonomous driving and facial recognition.
“This is just one tool in a larger toolbox for understanding AI,” he said. “The more we know about how these models work, the more we can trust them—and improve them.”
Beyond the Lab
Despite his academic achievements, Rajaram finds time to enjoy the typical pursuits of a teenager. He is an avid jazz drummer and a devoted fan of chess, often competing in school tournaments. He also enjoys spending time with friends, frequently visiting local restaurants.
“My favorite dish is the honey spareribs at Szechuan Taste,” he shared with a smile. “It’s the best way to relax after a long week.”
His ability to balance rigorous academic work with extracurricular interests reflects a disciplined but grounded approach to life.
Advice for Aspiring Innovators
Achyuta Rajaram is aware that his achievement will inspire other young scientists, and he is quick to offer practical advice. “Be curious about everything, not just your chosen field,” he said. “The more you explore, the more you’ll find connections between different ideas. Most things become fascinating when you dig deep enough.”
He also emphasized the importance of persistence. “Research can be frustrating. There were times when my code didn’t work, and I felt stuck. But every failure taught me something new, and that’s what kept me going.”
A Future in AI
Rajaram’s work highlights the potential of young scientists to contribute to some of the world’s most pressing challenges. By improving the transparency and reliability of AI systems, his research addresses concerns that have long plagued the field.
His success at the Regeneron Science Talent Search is just the beginning. As he prepares to join MIT, Achyuta Rajaram remains focused on pushing the boundaries of what AI can achieve—and ensuring it serves society responsibly.
“I want my work to have a real impact,” he said. “There’s so much we still don’t know about AI, and I’m excited to be part of the effort to change that.”
At a time when artificial intelligence is reshaping industries, Rajaram’s contributions stand out for their clarity and purpose. His journey serves as a reminder of the importance of curiosity, discipline, and a commitment to understanding the systems that increasingly shape our world.
(April 23, 2024) Growing up in the village of Keirak in Manipur, Elangbam Panthoi Chanu had no clue about football until she discovered the popular sport during a grassroots school sports festival at the age of 12. That got her instantly hooked. Cut to 2024, the 28-year-old has become the second goalkeeper from India to play for a club outside India, and the first Indian to play professional football in Australia. Excited for the opportunity, she said, "I've always dreamed of playing abroad and this is a great opportunity for me." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Women In Sports (@womeninsportsindia) Though she has begun her international inning with Metro United WFC in the South Australian League, she is set to undergo training with A-League outfit Adelaide United whose coach Adrian Stenta noticed her talent during the 'Women in Sports' elite footballs trials held in Kolkata in 2023. Serendipity led to her passion For someone who hails from a family that had nothing to do with sports, getting into football was a serendipitous encounter. It was the grassroots festival that turned out to be the perfect opportunity to try something new and she instantly knew
Though she has begun her international inning with Metro United WFC in the South Australian League, she is set to undergo training with A-League outfit Adelaide United whose coach Adrian Stenta noticed her talent during the 'Women in Sports' elite footballs trials held in Kolkata in 2023.
Serendipity led to her passion
For someone who hails from a family that had nothing to do with sports, getting into football was a serendipitous encounter. It was the grassroots festival that turned out to be the perfect opportunity to try something new and she instantly knew she had found her calling. Her coach had put her on the left wing but after the goalkeeper was left retired hurt, she decided to fill in her shoes, and that was the beginning of her journey in the world of football. Though she was new to the game and didn't understand the intricacies of it initially, her only aim on the field was to not let any ball through on her watch. "That was the beginning of my journey, and I have stayed on course since then. It has taken a lot of hard work and struggle, but that's what makes it worth it," she said in an interview.
Each day, she would take the 5 am bus from her remote village to travel 50 km to Imphal to reach the football academy for her training. A fast learner, she picked up the game quickly, and within a year of taking up the sport, she made it to the Manipur junior state team and the Indian junior national camp. Though she comes from a family of doctors and engineers, she found support in her parents and siblings. "I'm the only one who is in sports in my family. So, my father told me that it doesn't matter what I'm doing, that if I work hard at my profession, I will succeed and show the world what Manipur girls can do. My parents wanted me to be an example for the girls in my village," Panthoi had said.
Acing the game of football
Panthoi began her career at the Women's Football Academy in the Kakching district of Manipur, where she honed her skills for four years. Subsequently, she transitioned to Eastern Sporting Union in 2012 before joining Manipur Police. In 2014, she broke into the Indian national team, however, she had to patiently wait for a long time to find a permanent position because of the presence of other talented and experienced goalkeepers. But a shinbone injury in 2021 was a major setback as many had already written her off. But she was determined to return stronger. "Apart from the team training, I would do my individual training as well. Every day I reserve at least 30 minutes for running, and do my drills, conditioning, and training for two hours apart from the practice with the team," she said.
Over the past few years, Panthoi has risen as India's premier goalkeeper and was a key member of the team that secured the runner-up position at the Turkish Women’s Cup held in February. Her extensive experience in international football was a decisive factor for Metro United, who discovered her talent through the Women in Sports football clinic.
During her debut in Australia, Panthoi and her team conceded two goals. But she hopes to make a mark by the end of the season. "It is definitely exciting playing in Australia. This is a very important assignment for me and to do it well, I know I have to work hard. This is a stepping stone for me. But my dream is not restricted to playing in one country."
(October 6, 2022) Ten days ago, a post by writer Amitav Ghosh, who is quite the foodie, appeared on my Instagram feed. It was a glowing recommendation, along with a photograph, of a young chef, with Ghosh writing, "Great spread of pre-wedding Malayali food by Sarah Thomas and Hunter Jamison... If you are in the NYC area and longing for some spicy Malayali food." One assumes this would be the work of a veteran chef, Ghosh is, after all, one of the most celebrated names in the literary world. It was, however, a very youthful young woman who appeared on screen for the interview with Global Indian. "I'm 23 years old," Chef Sarah Thomas says. "I began my catering business in January 2021." Today, the young Global Indian works 20 hours on some days, making up to 50 dishes at a time. Growing up in New Jersey, where her parents moved from Kerala, Sarah's diet always comprised of home-cooked Malayali staples. "My mom would wake up at 5 am to cook for the whole family every day. It would make me angry then because it was distracting, I couldn't study and my clothes would smell. I never liked it." Soon
ry then because it was distracting, I couldn't study and my clothes would smell. I never liked it." Soon after college, however, when she moved away from home, she found herself craving her mother's cooking and simply couldn't find a suitable substitute. "What is available is either fusion or very high-end. The simple, traditional dishes were impossible to find. I simply wasn't tasting what I was getting at home," she says. Sarah decided to try her hand at it, setting up 'Sugar Dosa' on Shef, an online platform for people to order authentic, homemade meals made by local, certified chefs from around the world.
Straddling two worlds
Although her parents remained more or less rooted in their native culture, Sarah felt quite separated from it. "I'm only Malayali ethnically, I tell people that too. I don't speak the language as well as I should." She was a serious teen, studying medicine as so many Indian kids in the US do. Sarah realised soon enough that it wasn't what she wanted to do with her life and decided she would much rather teach yoga. "After I studied and did all my exams, I realised what I was doing didn't feel authentic to me. My parents worked hard to bring me here and the idea behind doing so was to see a different way of life - that's part of being American too." So, she turned to her decade-long association with yoga. "My father is a yoga teacher, he had studied at the Sivananda Institute. I learned from him when I was young and we would also teach together," she says.
In college, much to the alarm of her traditional parents, she chose a course in acting and creative writing. After that, she moved to NYC, signing up as a teacher with a yoga studio and working on writing short stories as well, in which she talked about life as an Indian growing up in America. "I found I didn't like the Western style of yoga, though. Here, the fear of cultural appropriation is a big deal, and yoga is seen as just a workout. Writing is also extremely competitive." Her three-year stint at the yoga studio ended unpleasantly when it became involved in a tax that "ruined the perception of yoga."
In 2020, when she created a platform for Malayali food on Shef, there was huge interest almost immediately. "I was the only one there making appams and egg curry," she smiles. She makes the batter by hand, substituting toddy, which she simply cannot get in the US, with yeast. "It works just as well," she says. The spice mixes are also hand-ground and she travels to New Jersey, which is home to a large Indian diaspora and major department stores that specialise in Indian ingredients, to buy what she needs. The Malabar Chicken Curry, appam and egg curry, and the famous Kerala beef fry (for private customers) are all in high demand.
Amitav Ghosh was among those who found her online. He ordered once and then again, after which he messaged Sarah, asking her if she would be willing to cater an event. "I didn't know it was the day of his son's wedding, he told me it was for a wedding party. I ended up catering this big meal for them right before they got married. It was also my first huge party." As she found her feet - Sarah is now expanding into a professional kitchen - she found, through yoga, writing, and cooking, a way to "tell my story without having to do anything out of the way. When I catered Mr. Ghosh's event, people already knew what I did and where I came from."
Sarah now plans to set up her own 'Malayali cafe' in the Lower East End, with doubles as a yoga studio. "That way, I can do both. To me, cooking is a form of yoga too. Here, yoga is a physical activity and is rarely paired with mindful practice, meditation, or the correct ways of eating," she says. Having studied meditation from former experts who learned from Osho back in the 1970s, Sarah's method of teaching yoga is to prepare the body for meditation.
"All of it is coming together for me," she says, as she concludes. "There are more South Indians here than ever before and I'm more emboldened now to share what I do and put a plate in front of someone. A lot of people come from India to New York and tell me they haven't eaten this kind of Malayali food for years. I'm happy doing this, instead of taking a more traditional path."
(July 19, 2023) It was in the spring break of 2022 that the then 16-year-old Uday Bhatia embarked on a school project. His destination was the village of Bichpuri in Uttar Pradesh, where he aimed to mentor 30 students on financial literacy and ways to earn a sustainable livelihood. Little did he know that this endeavour would profoundly impact the lives of the village residents. It all began when his students turned up without homework the following day. When inquired, he learned about the frequent power outages plaguing the area, lasting between 6 to 8 hours each day, making it impossible for the students to finish their assignments. "The only alternative they had was kerosene lamps, which I found was harmful due to the release of carbon monoxide and sulphur dioxide. Additionally, they posed risks of respiratory problems and eye irritation," Uday tells Global Indian. Motivated by the discovery, Uday delved into research and found that an inverter costs ₹10,000, the amount equivalent to the average income of many households in the village. This pushed him to find a low-cost solution, which he did with an emergency inverter bulb capable of providing 10 hours of power backup. The ground-breaking invention,
emergency inverter bulb capable of providing 10 hours of power backup. The ground-breaking invention, that has illuminated 5000 households till now in five states, earned him the Diana Award 2023.
[caption id="attachment_32012" align="aligncenter" width="547"] Uday Bhatia is the founder of Uday Electric[/caption]
A low-cost solution for power outages
Initially, he had no sense of direction but only a strong will to find a low-cost solution for people of Bichpuri. This led him to comb through reams of information and explore varied options like solar panels and hydropower before zeroing in on power storage system - a technology he describes simple yet complex. "I started using a lithium-ion rechargeable cell. How the bulb works is that when it's connected to a power source, the energy gets stored in the cell. During a power outage, the stored energy from the cell powers the bulb, ensuring it continues to glow," reveals Uday, who reached the solution after working on seven-eight prototypes.
However, one problem still loomed large - the limited backup time of three hours. That's when he tapped into his expertise in computer science to devise a solution. Leveraging his skills, he developed a pulse width modulation technique in conjunction with dynamic lumen technology. By implementing this approach, he found a way to extend the backup duration. "The algorithm enables one to adjust the bulb's brightness according to their requirement. The lower the brightness, the longer the backup. For instance, if someone desires a brightness level of 9 watts, they could adjust the bulb's settings from 12 watts to 9 watts, thereby granting them the freedom to control the brightness and the backup duration," says Uday who is happy that his technology caters to people across all demographics.
“For a longer backup, we decrease the brightness of the bulb. The algorithm helps the user have an optimum level of brightness based on his needs. If someone needs a 9-watt brightness, they can move it from 12 watts to 9 watts, thus giving them the freedom to control the brightness and the backup," adds Uday who is happy that his technology caters to people across all demographics. "In Uttar Pradesh, people are using it at a lower brightness, while in the Himalayas, since a new hydropower plant has come up, people are using it at a higher brightness."
The beginning of Uday Electric
It was after 24 prototypes that Uday arrived at the 10-hour backup. However, the journey over the past year has been nothing short of captivating for Uday. It all began with his humble experiments conducted on his terrace, eventually culminating in the establishment of Uday Electric in June 2022. The brand name was chosen as a blend of Uday's luminous technology and a personal touch, inspired by the meaning of his name, which signifies the rising of the sun. "I thought people in the villages would easily connect with it."
The dire situation in Bichpuri served as a catalyst for Uday's journey into sustainable energy solutions, leading to the birth of Uday Electric. Their tagline, "Bijli gul fir bhi ujaala full," encapsulates their mission. The initial six months were dedicated to intensive research and development, and later they organised their first donation drive in Kabadi Bazar in Dehradun, followed by another collaboration with the Aasra Foundation.
Uday was only 16 when he started Uday Electric, and for the most part has been the sole army behind the work, apart from an outsourcing company that helps with manufacturing. But now he plans to get an in-house team into place and start full-fledged manufacturing.
Creating brand value
Being a teenager, age did play a spoiler, however, the entrepreneur recognises the significance of brand value as a crucial stepping stone for any business. "In order to gain trust, we would offer one-year warranty for our bulbs, surpassing the standard six-month warranty provided by others. Though we were a loss-reading company initially, we distributed free bulbs to retailers for testing purposes." His resilience proved instrumental in navigating the challenges, ultimately illuminating 5000 households across Uttar Pradesh, Uttrakhand, Rajasthan, Haryana and Kerala. As a novice, he pursued three strategies - cold calling retailers in different markets to gauge demand, advertising on platforms like India Mart and conducting on-location surveys in places like Manesar industrial area and Kabadi Bazaar in Dehradun.
Uday firmly justifies the price of ₹250 for his bulbs, emphasising that he is not in direct competition with other bulbs on the market but rather with expensive power storage systems. "You either buy an inverter which costs a lot in comparison to the price of the bulb." At the onset, he bootstrapped the business, starting with an initial investment of ₹17,000 from which he produced the first 100 bulbs. "Initially, we started with the profit-making incentive and later used the sales reserves to do donation drives, since we wanted to check the consumer response first."
Making an impact
In a short span, Uday Electric has made a significant and positive impact on the lives of individuals in rural India. His vision as a value creator is to ensure that every household in rural areas has access to sufficient lighting. "And in places where electricity is yet to reach, I want to illuminate them with the help of renewable energy," he says, adding, "Uday Electric is not just a bulb but I see ourselves getting into renewable energy soon."
Uday recently received the prestigious Diana Award 2023, and while he is grateful for the recognition, he believes that the true validation for his work lies in the number of households he has illuminated. Since third grade, he was keen to run a business, as he was inspired by his dad and uncle, both entrepreneurs. "Uday Electric is my second venture, my first venture was an edtech marketplace for finding a tutor called FindOurTutor.com that I started during the pandemic," says the teenager who wants to do a double major in economics and computer science.
Uday loves to gym, run and swim in his free time, and is keen to take Uday Electric to new heights in the near future. He advises youngsters "to put your best foot forward and never give up. That's how you make a successful business."
(May 15, 2024) Coming from the family of the Indian multinational snack food company and restaurant chain, Bikanervala, entrepreneurship runs in the blood of Mishthi Aggarwal. The fourth-generation entrepreneur is the only female specialty coffee roaster in India, a certified Q grader, and an authorised SCA trainer. As the founder and CEO of 93 Degrees Coffee Roasters, Mishthi oversees the production of bespoke blends innovated and developed in her organisation’s research and development centre. “During my travels across the world, I was inspired by the rich coffee culture and it led me to venture into the coffee industry,” Mishthi tells Global Indian. “While India is the seventh largest producer of coffee in the world, most of it is exported. I want to inculcate the specialty coffee culture in our Indian lifestyles. This will not only allow us to enjoy our high-quality homegrown coffees but at the same time promote the flourishing agri-economy,” adds the Harvard University alumna. [caption id="attachment_37808" align="aligncenter" width="590"] Mishthi Aggarwal[/caption] 93 Degrees Coffee Roasters At 93 Degrees Coffee Roasters, each coffee batch undergoes gentle roasting in high-quality equipment to capture the fullest flavours from every bean. This meticulous process helps in discovering the window of peak
At 93 Degrees Coffee Roasters, each coffee batch undergoes gentle roasting in high-quality equipment to capture the fullest flavours from every bean. This meticulous process helps in discovering the window of peak flavour, resulting in a perfect roast. When a coffee achieves the desired mark, it is served at cafes and made available on shelves as whole beans.
Established in the year 2022, the organisation is based out of Gurugram, Haryana. “Being born in a business family, you pick up all the traits and values that are discussed in the household. I think I imbibed the qualities of diligence and entrepreneurship from my family very early on in life,” Mishthi tells. “My family always supported me in my venture and with their constant encouragement I have been able to lay a strong foundation at 93 Degrees Coffee Roasters.”
As the sole owner of 93 Degrees Coffee Roasters, the 27-year-old leads a team of 15 dedicated individuals who share her passion for specialty coffee. “While I am the primary decision-maker and visionary for the company, I deeply value the collaborative effort and diverse perspectives that each team member brings to the table.” Together the team strives to uphold the highest standards of quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction in every aspect of business operations.
93 Degrees is Mishthi’s first business venture. “It has been a transformative journey so far,” she remarks. The decision to embark on this path was not taken for the heck of getting into business following her family’s legacy, rather it was a result of her deep passion for coffee and a desire to make a meaningful impact in the coffee industry of India.
Mishthi started her business venture in 2022 while she was still a student of Harvard. “Managing the day-to-day operations of 93 Degrees while pursuing my management studies at Harvard has been both demanding and rewarding,” she remarks. “Thanks to the flexible learning options offered by Harvard, I was able to strike a balance between my academic commitments and the responsibilities of running a business. Leveraging technology and effective time management strategies, I ensured that the company continues to thrive in my absence,” she tells, highlighting that the insights gained from her course enriched her decision-making ability and contributed in running the business even from abroad.
“Each day brings new challenges and opportunities for growth, and I am grateful for the invaluable lessons learned along the way.” While there have been hurdles to overcome, a sense of fulfilment derived from building something from the ground up makes every obstacle worth it for Mishthi.
Blending legacy and innovation
“Coming from an esteemed business family, entrepreneurship was the most natural progression for me. I have enjoyed the process of establishing 93 Degrees Coffee Roasters. Also, I have learnt to respect traditions in businesses even while innovating and discovering new trends in the industry,” says the fourth-generation entrepreneur. She looks at her grandfather, as a visionary entrepreneur who instilled in her the qualities of integrity, persistence, and diligence towards excellence from a young age.
Drawing inspiration from his entrepreneurial journey Mishthi learned to blend tradition with innovation, respecting the rich heritage of her family business while pioneering new ventures in uncharted territories.
“Throughout my entrepreneurial endeavour, I have been fortunate to have the support and guidance of my family members. They are the mentors and advisors of my journey. Their experience, wisdom and the values that they instilled in me has shaped my identity as an entrepreneur,” she remarks.
Visionary leaders in the coffee industry who have reshaped the landscape of specialty coffee globally are also people who inspire Mishthi Aggarwal, fuelling her ambition to make a meaningful impact in the world of specialty coffee.
Beyond business
As an entrepreneur, Mishthi’s aspirations for 93 Degrees Coffee Roasters extend beyond mere profitability. She envisions her brand becoming synonymous with exceptional quality, sustainability, and social responsibility in the coffee industry. “By cultivating strong partnerships with local farmers, we aim to create a positive impact at every stage of the coffee supply chain. Ultimately, I strive to elevate the coffee experience for our customers while contributing to the greater good of society,” she tells.
93 Degrees Coffee Roasters is deeply committed to empowering local coffee farmers through initiatives aimed at promoting fair trade practices, sustainable agriculture, and community development. “Partnering with coffee-growing communities and advocating for their rights and well-being, we aim to create a more equitable and sustainable coffee industry for generations to come,” Mishthi shares, talking about her aspirations.
On the path of leadership
Before enrolling in the master’s in management at Harvard University, Mishthi completed her bachelors of science in economics from the University of Nottingham, and a three-year diploma course in coffee skills from Specialty Coffee Association of Europe (SCAE), one of the world's largest coffee trade associations.
“As an authorised AST (Authorised Specialty Coffee Association Trainer), certified by the SCAE, I possess the necessary credentials to educate and train others in the art and science of specialty coffee,” she mentions. Her Q Grader Arabica certification, awarded by the Coffee Quality Institute makes her an expert in evaluating and grading coffee beans - a unique position as a female leader in a male-dominated industry.
She has served as a jury member with the National Coffee Board for the National Latte Art Championship and National Barista Championship in the past. Winners went on to participate in global competitions. As a jury member she evaluated and critiqued the performance of contestants based on criteria such as taste, technique, and presentation. The entrepreneur and trainer loved being in the judge's shoes. She looks at it as an opportunity to contribute towards the advancement of the coffee industry of India on a global scale.
“As a budding entrepreneur, I have encountered numerous challenges along the path to building and growing 93 Degrees Coffee Roasters. From navigating the complexities of supply chain management to overcoming financial hurdles and fierce competition, each obstacle has tested my resilience and determination,” she remarks adding, “However, I firmly believe that challenges present opportunities for growth and innovation. I have been able to overcome the obstacles and emerge stronger than before.”
The entrepreneur, who has just returned after completing her masters at Harvard, aims to make her venture bigger and contribute wholeheartedly in the specialty coffee industry of India as a certified Q grader, and an authorised SCA trainer.
The winners of the 2024 Regeneron Science Talent Search[/caption]
Panthoi Chanu[/caption]
Sarah's Beef Ularthiyathu[/caption]
Uday Bhatia is the founder of Uday Electric[/caption]
Mishthi Aggarwal[/caption]