Tedx talk "The Battle of Pen and Paper" by Asmit Walia highlights the extreme challenges faced by Indian soldiers stationed at the Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield. It emphasizes the harsh conditions—temperatures dropping to –60°C, deadly avalanches, and mental strain due to isolation and fatigue. The talk also honors historic acts of bravery, such as the Battle of Saragarhi, where 21 soldiers chose to fight to the end, and the Battle of Longewala, noted for strategic brilliance and courage.
These stories underscore the immense physical and psychological battles soldiers face beyond traditional warfare.
Asmit Walia, a third-year CSE student, understands the deep connection between the resilience of soldiers and the challenges of student life. Coming from an army background, he has grown up listening to firsthand accounts of brave soldiers facing adversity on the battlefield. This unique perspective has shaped his mindset, helping him navigate life's relentless challenges with discipline and determination. Asmit believes that the same mentality that drives a soldier through the darkest hours can empower students to overcome obstacles and strive for success. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
More from TED
- 11:13The crisis facing American mothers and what we can do about it | Kayla Elderkin | TEDxPacific AvenueNewborns need their mothers — but in America, most women are forced back to work just weeks after giving birth. With no federally mandated paid leave, rising childcare costs, and mounting mental health crises, the system is failing moms and children alike. Kayla Elderkin delivers a raw, personal account of how she escaped the impossible trap so many mothers face — and challenges us to question the cultural norms that call this "normal." Kayla Elderkin is a single mother who refused to choose between raising her children and providing for them. While on maternity leave, she started building a business from scratch—determined to create a life that allowed her to be both present and financially secure. Today, she’s grown a community of over 600,000 across her platforms and is on a mission to help other women do the same: stay home with their babies and still provide boldly. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 11:12Why do we drift from our true path? | Gottfried Prinz | TEDxKlagenfurtIn this powerful talk, Gottfried Prinz reveals three escalating signals life sends when we drift from our true path — signposts, silence phases, and crisis. Through personal story and with sharp insight, he invites us to reconnect with ourselves and rediscover purpose, before life has to shout!Gottfried Prinz is a serial entrepreneur, transformation coach, and helps people and businesses reinvent themselves. Since 2007, he has led over 80 successful corporate restructurings, built a thriving superfoods brand with Dattelbär, and coached more than 800 executives and entrepreneurs toward purposeful change. Gottfried blends sharp business acumen with deep human insight. He’s also an author, speaker, self-healer, farmer, and actor and above all, a proud father of three. His mission is to leave a meaningful mark on the world through courage, clarity, and gratitude. Whether in the boardroom or on the farm, Gottfried lives what he teaches: transformation is not just possible—it’s a practice. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
