In this deeply personal and inspiring TEDx talk, Manav Parmar—spiritual storyteller and founder of Cocoon’s Library—takes us on a transformative journey from self-doubt to soulful purpose. Growing up introverted and unsure of himself, Manav didn’t follow a set path or five-year plan. Instead, his life was shaped by a series of uncertain steps, unanswered questions, and an inner curiosity that refused to die.Through the lens of vulnerability, Manav shares how asking “Who am I?” became the spark that led him to abandon societal expectations and discover his true voice. What began as a random act of curiosity—clicking photographs at a wedding—slowly turned into a path of spiritual storytelling, where he now retells India’s ancient epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata in a way that resonates with today’s youth. His story is not about a perfect life—it’s about embracing the imperfect unknown. Manav reminds us that not having it all figured out is not a weakness, but an invitation to grow, connect, and create. This talk is a call to everyone who has ever felt lost or unheard: your path begins where the world’s script ends. Manav Parmar is the founder of Cocoon’s Library, a spiritual storytelling platform that brings India’s ancient wisdom to life through soulful narratives and engaging podcasts. As a passionate storyteller and podcast host, he shares the timeless teachings of the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhagavad Gita, and tales of deities like Shiva, Krishna, Hanuman, and Devi in a way that resonates with today’s generation. Manav’s gift lies in simplifying deep spiritual truths into relatable life lessons, inspiring listeners of all ages to embrace values like empathy, courage, and inner peace. His work isn’t just about storytelling—it’s about spiritual reconnection, cultural revival, and healing through heritage. 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
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- 12:50Museums must give back what they stole — here’s why | Dorota Blumczynska | TEDxWinnipegWhat does it mean to hold stolen history? Museum CEO Dorota delivers a powerful call for accountability and transformation within the cultural sector. Drawing from her experience at the Manitoba Museum, she exposes the legacy of colonialism that still lives in museum vaults—through artifacts taken without consent, displayed without context, and separated from the communities they belong to.With clarity and conviction, Dorota urges institutions to go beyond symbolic gestures: to return sacred objects, share authority with Indigenous communities, and become true allies in truth and reconciliation. This talk invites us to reimagine museums not as neutral spaces, but as platforms for justice, healing, and co-creation. Dorota Blumczynska, CEO of the Manitoba Museum and Vice-President of the Canadian Museums Association, advocates for museums as spaces of truth, reconciliation, and social justice. She shares her vision for transforming museums to foster healing and understanding. 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
