Archana Jaju engages in a timeless reflection on her journey—a path marked by countless challenges, rejections, and moments of reinvention. She did not get any formal education but honed her craft through years of dedicated practice and unwavering hard work, ultimately propelling her and her artisan craft to the forefront of the design world. In a world where dreams often take shape in the quietest corners, her journey began in a small garage with just one master and two artisans, supported by her family. That humble beginning laid the foundation for a thriving enterprise that now empowers over 200 families. This talk isn’t just momentary; it is a powerful reminder that hard work is not optional but essential. It speaks to a deeper truth—that in life, one must place unwavering faith in their parents, their efforts, and the universe itself. Opportunities will come, often in unexpected ways, and it is only through preparedness, persistence, and belief that one can truly seize themArchana Jaju is a celebrated Indian fashion designer known for reviving India’s traditional textile crafts through her fabled work. From dependence to independence, her journey shaped a brand built on sustainability and artisan empowerment, where every piece is handcrafted, eco-conscious, and rooted in cultural heritage This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Archana Jaju is an acclaimed Indian fashion designer, celebrated for her revival of traditional crafts and textiles, particularly in handloom and sustainable fashion. With a deep commitment to preserving India's rich cultural heritage, she blends traditional weaving techniques with contemporary aesthetics to create timeless collections.Her brand has become a symbol of luxury in Indian ethnic wear, admired for its ethical practices and dedication to supporting artisanal communities, making her a prominent figure in the fashion industry. 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

Nitin Gokhale offers us his valuable insights on how he took on life, unexpectedly becoming a journalist and author, through inspiring anecdotes and memories. He explains how fleeting moments in his life led him to make unpredictable decisions and take up life-changing opportunities as a sports and war journalist, making him who he is today. His enthusiasm and dedication to stay curious and remain a student throughout his life is inspiring, and stands as a testament to the innumerable learnings he acquired by, in his own words, “putting up his hand for everything”.As one of India’s leading strategic analysts today, Nithin Gokhale is proof that a combination of hard work and diligence along with passion for your line of work, be it a planned or unplanned one, can take you further than you think. “Carpe diem” is the motto he lives by; he believes that life is about its ups and downs, and the only thing you can control is knowing how to seize the moment. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Nitin A. Gokhale is a renowned national security analyst, author, and media entrepreneur with over three decades of expertise in India’s defense, security, and strategic affairs. He has reported from the frontlines of numerous conflicts and authored several pivotal books, including Securing India the Modi Way and Beyond NJ 9842, offering valuable insights into India’s military strategy and geopolitical challenges.As the founder of BharatShakti.in, a leading defense platform, Mr. Gokhale has shaped critical narratives in defense and security, drawing from his vast experience in journalism across print, television, and digital media. His work continues to influence public discourse on India’s strategic interests in an increasingly complex global landscape. 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