Is Humor the Antidote to Hate? | Falah Faisal | TEDxBangalore
What happens when you create India's first Muslim superhero whose catchphrase is "Jai Shree Allah"?In this experimental conversation format moderated by Sahana Srikanth, Falah Faisal, creator of the comic series Musalman, reveals how humor can be more powerful than hatred in healing a polarized society, while seamlessly switching between his role as comic creator and embodying Musalman the superhero, who also joined the stage.Growing up in an India where neighbors shared biryani on Eid and burst crackers together on Diwali, Falah witnessed the slow disappearance of the multicultural fabric that once defined the country. Through his irreverent comics, he fights back, not with violence, but with wit, creating a superhero who is "equally offensive to everybody" while challenging every stereotype about faith, identity, and belonging.Discover how this unconventional creator uses "gonzo journalism" through comics to capture the essence of modern India and why he believes fiction can show us the way forward.This isn't just a story about comics, it's a masterclass in using creativity as activism and laughter as resistance. Falah Faisal is an Indian writer, comedian, and filmmaker known for creating Musalman, India's first Muslim superhero, and Falahdeen, a modern twist on the Aladdin story . His work blends satire, cultural commentary, and personal storytelling to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity. 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
- 9:43From Clay to Canvas | Ninad Kadam & Vijay Pakhare | TEDxRAPodarCollegeArt is not just creation—it’s transformation. Vijay and Ninad share their story of shaping raw, unformed clay into vibrant canvases of possibility. Their talk bridges tradition and innovation, showing how art can mold perspectives, break barriers, and paint new horizons for human expression. Ninad Kadam is the founder of Gandharva Kalamancha and a versatile artist — writer, poet, actor, director, and voiceover artist. He has directed Zee Natya Gaurav award-winning plays for two consecutive years and appeared on shows like Marathi Paul Padte Pudhe and Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega for Mallakhamb. Crowned Mr. University 2018 by the University of Mumbai, he also worked as a task producer and writer for Bigg Boss Marathi Season 5.Vijay Ramkrishna Pakhare is a sculpture and painting artist, and an alumnus of R. A. Podar College. He has won a Silver Medal in Cartooning and a Bronze Medal in Clay Modeling at the Youth Festival. With a Diploma in Animation, he has worked as an animator at Laksha Digital Animation Studio. He now runs his own Ganesh idol-making business and also works as a freelance sculpture and painting artist. 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
- 17:02Living finite on a finite Earth | Chetan Singh Solanki | TEDxRAPodarCollegeThe planet is running on borrowed time and so are we. Chetan highlights the pressing dilemma of sustainability in a world of limited resources. His talk is a call to rethink consumption, redefine progress and make conscious choices before our finite Earth can no longer support infinite ambitions. Popularly known as the Solar Man of India, Prof. Chetan Singh Solanki is a professor at IIT Bombay and the founder of the Energy Swaraj Foundation. Leading the Energy Swaraj Yatra, a 11-year journey in a solar-powered bus, he promotes solar energy and climate action across India. With global recognition, multiple patents and a deep commitment to sustainability, he is a powerful advocate for energy independence and environmental responsibility. 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
- 13:57Self-discovery for youth in transition | Manasi K G | TEDxSt Pauls CollegeWho am I? This timeless question becomes especially powerful during youth, a stage of constant change, discovery, and transition. In today’s fast-paced world, young people face unique challenges of identity, belonging, and purpose, shaped by social media, cultural expectations, and global uncertainties. This talk explores the journey of self-discovery during adolescence and young adulthood, highlighting both the struggles and opportunities that come with it. By reflecting on resilience, authenticity, and the courage to embrace change, it invites us to view youth not as problems to be solved but as possibilities to be nurtured. Manasi K G is the Founding Partner of NarrateIndia, a platform dedicated to capturing and amplifying authentic, grassroots narratives. A firm believer in the power of personal storytelling to shape collective futures, Manasi works closely with young people to help them discover voice, purpose, and agency. Her work lies at the intersection of youth development, civic identity, and narrative justice. 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
- 9:16From Scribbling Notes to Writing Change | Sandesh Bhingarde | TEDxRAPodarCollegeWhat starts as scattered thoughts in the margins can become movements that shape society. Sandesh takes us through his journey of transforming everyday scribbles into purposeful action, showing how the smallest words can grow into voices that rewrite systems and inspire meaningful change. Mr. Sandesh Bhingarde, an alumnus of R. A. Podar College, is the founder of Team Vision Foundation - an NGO led by visually impaired individuals to empower their community. With a Master’s in Political Science and a certification in Disability Studies, he combines expertise with lived experience. His impactful initiatives, like audio libraries and tactile education tools, are transforming accessibility in education. A passionate advocate for inclusion and systemic change, he brings a powerful voice to TEDx. 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
- 15:58From Fear to Freedom | Eswar Moorthy | TEDxHimalayan International School YouthFear hides behind logic and masks itself as caution, timing, or even perfectionism. But at its core, fear is the silent force that keeps us from speaking up, from taking risks, and from stepping into leadership. It’s what causes bright minds to dim their voices and great ideas to stay buried in notebooks. Practical way forward through what Dr Eswar called as “Fear to F.R.E.E. Framework” which he developed through his experience. * Face It – Begin by acknowledging fear instead of avoiding it. Naming it is the first courageous act. You cannot change what you refuse to face. * Reframe It – Shift your internal dialogue. Instead of “What if I fail?” ask “What might I learn? or what if I inspire someone?” * Engage With It – Don’t wait for confidence. Take action. Action creates evidence. And evidence builds confidence and belief * Empower Through It – Once you grow, help others rise. Share your story. Encourage someone who’s hesitating. Be the spark. Great leaders does not only grow themselves but helps other grow This framework gives clear roadmap and practical steps — especially for those of us navigating change, leading teams, or simply wanting to grow without letting fear drive our choices. Fear may not disappear, but it doesn't have to dominate. What we need is not fearlessness — but the courage to take one step forward even when fear is present. One that starts with a single decision to move — despite fear — toward freedom and sustainable growth. He mentioned that growth and success lie on the other of the fear most of the time. He encouraged audience develop the mindset of feel fear and do it anyway. He concluded with a question to audience “what fear are you ready to face today?”"Dr Eswar Moorthy brings over 30 years of corporate experience and current serves in a Leadership role in the area of IT Project Management & Delivery. He is a Leadership Architect to develop leaders and Author. He holds an engineering degree complemented by advanced qualifications, including master’s degrees in Management, Human Resources, and Leadership, as well as Doctorate in Management and Leadership. Dr Eswar is deeply passionate about teaching, mentoring and coaching professionals, empowering them to develop essential leadership and life skills. His philosophy focuses on achieving holistic success, fostering happiness, and enabling individuals to lead purposeful and fulfilling lives. Dr Eswar blends his extensive corporate experience, industry research and academic insights and guide professionals on a transformative journey towards mastery in all facets of life." 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
- 13:52AI in Education | Sukhvinder Singh | TEDxHimalayan International School YouthBy 2027, classrooms will no longer be shaped by textbooks alone—they will be driven by artificial intelligence. From personalized learning paths to AI-driven assessment and real-time feedback, the way students learn is transforming faster than ever before. But what happens if teachers fail to adapt? In this talk, we’ll explore why educators who resist AI risk becoming outdated, and how embracing AI can empower—not replace—teachers. Discover how AI can reduce administrative burdens, unlock creativity in lesson design, and give every student a truly personalized education. This isn’t about replacing teachers with machines—it’s about reimagining the role of teachers as guides, mentors, and innovators in a world where AI is the new chalk and blackboard Sukhvinder Singh is a distinguished Indian entrepreneur, educator, and renowned for his contributions to the fields of international education and youth development. 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