IIM Rohtak Organises Second Annual TEDx Event

Channelizing technology and innovation to help change the lives of others was the core idea at the second TEDx event organized by IIM Rohtak on Saturday, September 10, 2016. The theme of the event being “the First Flight”, the speakers reminisced their first encounter with passion and the incidents that spurred them to strive for a better world. Exploring subjects that ranged from topics such as the challenges faced in the battle to cure cancer to creating a model Wi-Fi enabled village, the speakers captivated everyone present with their insightful talks.

The speakers included Vishal Karungulam (Business Architect at Microsoft), Panki Sood (mountaineer and managing host at GHNP), Himanshu Patel (Sarpanch, Punsari village), Rajat Sethi (Political Strategist), Professor R K Grover (Director and CEO, Delhi State Cancer Institute) and Jaydeep Mandal (Founder and MD of Aakar Innovations). The event sought to bring out the different connotations of the word “First Flight” through their lives and works.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group.

TED is a nonprofit organization devoted to Ideas Worth Spreading, usually in the form of short, powerful talks (18 minutes or fewer) delivered by today's leading thinkers and doers.

Drawing the attention of the audience towards the technological shifts that are currently underway, Vishal Karungulam said that everyone of us must deliberately and consciously engage in the transformation. He remarked that we are not merely actors in this world but are now the creators.

Professor R K Grover, who has been at the front for over 30 years in the war against cancer, said that while machine might have left man behind but it is man who is the creator of machines. He urged the audience not to dilute their intentions and sincerity while adding that “Excellence is a continuous process and not an accident”.

The man behind transforming his village into a model of development, Mr. Himanshu Patel said the lack of basic amenities in his village and the myopic world in which the people lived, motivated him to stand for the Panchayat elections. His vision was providing access to all modern facilities while keeping intact the soul of the village.

Panki Sood, talking about First Flight in a personal context, said that support from family and hope are the greatest weapons in the fight against addiction. He added that from the dark alleys of drug addiction to being a managing host for tourists in one of the most beautiful places on earth, his has truly been a remarkable journey.  

The highly engaging and thought provoking talks were a perfect setting that encouraged a spirit of dialogue and left the audience with something to ponder upon.

TEDx IIM Rohtak is supported by NTPC, DocsTub, Kaafa and MDU Rohtak.