In a world where everyone is busy defining us, “Decode Yourself” is about reclaiming our own identity. It’s about honoring the struggles, experiences, and values that shape who we are. For me, it reflects the belief that true success begins when we understand ourselves—our strengths, our flaws, our dreams—and transform them into purpose. Ujjwal Kumar Shriwastav, born into a modest middle-class family in Bihar, where dreams were often shaped by stability, not passion. My parents, both educated, hoped I’d become an officer — someone society listens to with respect. While I followed the conventional path of education and government exam preparation in Patna, my soul was pulled elsewhere. From childhood, I was encouraged to speak in English at school events — even before I knew the language. Those nervous speeches, those early applauses — they planted a seed of performance and storytelling in me. Despite being an average student, I was always seen as the “sharp one” in my village and family. But my true transformation began when I joined an English-speaking class — not for fluency, but where i discovered my stage presence. 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

This talk explores how students can overcome FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) and shift their focus from chasing external validation to building true personal growth by “living like a product.” Through relatable examples of different student paths, the speaker emphasizes that growth is not about joining endless organizations, winning competitions, or stacking up achievements, but about intentionally developing skills, values, and features that align with one’s life goals. Using the RISA framework (Relevance, Innovation, Strategy, Adaptability), the talk encourages the audience to understand their context, choose the right processes, and commit to a timeline that fits their energy and purpose. Drawing from personal experience — from being a freshman with clear goals, to graduating in 3.5 years, winning awards, and earning a scholarship abroad — the speaker shows how rejecting FOMO leads to sustainable growth. Ultimately, the talk challenges the audience with a powerful closing question: “What kind of product do you want to become?” a lifelong learner and the kind of speaker who doesn’t just talk change, he lives it. From leading Bank Indonesia scholarship movements to initiating impactful student training, Arvin embodies what it means to serve through knowledge. On our stage, he’ll unravel a narrative about trusting yourself in silence, adapting like a product, but never compromising your core. His journey? It’s a lesson in sociology and selfhood all at once. 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

Dr. Suman Chakraborty is a world-renowned mechanical engineer and research leader who stands at the forefront of microfluidics and nanofluidics innovation. As a distinguished professor at IIT Kharagpur and Dean of Research and Development, he bridges the gap between cutting-edge scientific research and practical healthcare solutions that can transform lives globally. His expertise lies in manipulating fluids at microscopic scales - a field that has profound implications for medical diagnostics, drug delivery, and biotechnology. Dr. Chakraborty's most impactful contribution has been translating complex fluid dynamics principles into affordable, accessible healthcare technologies. His development of COVIRAP (COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Point-of-care) represents a paradigm shift in pandemic diagnostics, providing rapid, cost-effective testing solutions that can reach underserved populations. His pioneering work in lab-on-a-chip diagnostics miniaturizes entire laboratory processes onto single chips, enabling sophisticated medical tests to be performed anywhere - from rural clinics to home settings. This democratization of advanced diagnostics has the potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery, particularly in resource-constrained environments. The scientific community has recognized his exceptional contributions through the most prestigious honors in Indian science, including the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize (India's highest science award) and the Infosys Prize. His international recognition includes fellowships from the American Physical Society (APS), Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), and American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), along with the UNESCO TWAS Award in Engineering and Computer Sciences (2026). Dr. Suman Chakraborty, a distinguished professor of Mechanical Engineering and the Dean of Research and Development at IIT Kharagpur, is a pioneering figure in microfluidics and nanofluidics. His groundbreaking innovations, particularly in developing affordable healthcare technologies like COVIRAP and lab-on-a-chip diagnostics, have significantly advanced medical accessibility and diagnostics. Recognized for his exceptional contributions to science and technology, Dr. Suman Chakraborty has been honored with prestigious awards, including the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize, the Infosys Prize, and esteemed fellowships from the APS, RSC, and ASME, along with the UNESCO TWAS Award in Engineering and Computer Sciences (2026). 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

Saim Bhat is a versatile Indian artist who has carved a unique niche in the music industry by pioneering the fusion of Sufi spirituality with contemporary rock music. Born in Kashmir, he has become a cultural bridge builder, seamlessly blending the mystical traditions of Sufi music with modern soundscapes to create what is now recognized as "Sufi rock." His musical journey began with rigorous classical training under renowned maestros including Ghulam Hassan Sofi and the legendary Pandit Jasraj Ji, giving him deep roots in traditional Indian classical and Sufi music. This foundation enabled him to innovate respectfully, creating a new genre that honors tradition while appealing to contemporary audiences. As the founder of the band Vibrationz, he made history by organizing Kashmir's first Sufi rock concert in 1999, marking a pivotal moment in the region's musical landscape. His breakthrough came with popular tracks like Sufi Tere Pyaar Mein, Aye Khuda, and Phir Mohabbat, which showcase his ability to infuse spiritual depth into accessible melodies. His Bollywood career took off with Jai Veeru and gained significant recognition with Murder 2. Beyond entertainment, Saim embodies the philosophy that "Music is my love, but contributing to society is my Dharma." His philanthropic work includes environmental conservation efforts, particularly his recognized contribution to saving Dal Lake, and community unity initiatives. Through his Sufi Academy, he mentors emerging talent, ensuring the continuation of his musical legacy. Saim Bhat, an Indian playback singer, composer, and writer, is known for soulful tracks like Sufi Tere Pyaar Mein, Aye Khuda, and Phir Mohabbat. Hailing from Kashmir, he pioneered Sufi rock, blending tradition with modern sounds. Starting with his band Vibrationz, he led Kashmir’s first Sufi rock concert in 1999. Trained by legends like Ghulam Hassan Sofi and Pandit Jasraj Ji, he made his Bollywood debut with Jai Veeru and gained fame with Murder 2. Beyond music, Saim is a philanthropist, honored for saving Dal Lake and uniting communities. Through his Sufi Academy, he nurtures young talent. “Music is my love, but contributing to society is my Dharma. 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

Trupti Jain is a visionary leader in sustainable agriculture and water management, with over three decades of expertise in gender-focused development across India, Southeast Asia, and Africa. She is the innovator behind Bhungroo, a revolutionary rainwater harvesting system that has enhanced food security, empowered women farmers, and mitigated the challenges of droughts and floods. Her pioneering work has earned her prestigious accolades, including the Cartier Women’s Initiative Award (2017) and the Gender Just Climate Solutions Award (2018). A Fulbright Scholar and UN speaker, her efforts highlight the transformative potential of innovation and equality in fostering global progress. Trupti Jain is a visionary leader in sustainable agriculture and water management, with over three decades of expertise in gender-focused development across India, Southeast Asia, and Africa. She is the innovator behind Bhungroo, a revolutionary rainwater harvesting system that has enhanced food security, empowered women farmers, and mitigated the challenges of droughts and floods. Her pioneering work has earned her prestigious accolades, including the Cartier Women’s Initiative Award (2017) and the Gender Just Climate Solutions Award (2018). A Fulbright Scholar and UN speaker, Trupti’s efforts highlight the transformative potential of innovation and equality in fostering global progress. 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

Ms. Madhulita Mohapatra is a celebrated Odissi dancer and cultural ambassador who has dedicated her life to preserving and elevating this classical Indian dance form. As the founder of Nrityantar, she has created a platform for nurturing Odissi tradition while innovating within its classical framework. Her artistry combines technical mastery with profound expressive depth, particularly evident in her abhinaya (dramatic expression). Her performances have graced prestigious stages from the ancient Konark Festival in Odisha to international platforms like the Johor Bahru Arts Festival, demonstrating her ability to connect diverse audiences with India's classical heritage. Her choreographic work reflects both reverence for tradition and contemporary sensibility. Recognition of her contributions includes the Sangeet Natak Akademi's Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar (2018), acknowledging her as a promising young artist, and recent honors like the IIW She Inspires Award at the UK Parliament (2024) and the Devi Award (2024), highlighting her role as a cultural leader and inspirational figure for women in the arts. A distinguished Odissi dancer and the visionary founder of Nrityantar, Ms. Madhulita Mohapatra, has played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Odissi. Her performances at the Konark Festival and Johor Bahru Arts Festival have showcased her choreographic brilliance and expressive abhinaya, earning her widespread acclaim. Her dedication to the art form has been recognized with prestigious honors, including the Sangeet Natak Akademi's Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar (2018), the IIW She Inspires Award at the UK Parliament (2024), and the Devi Award (2024). As a Doordarshan ‘A’ grade artist and ICCR empaneled artiste, she inspires generations through her artistry and dedication to cultural excellence. Her story of passion and perseverance is inspiring and resonates globally. 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