Launch of the Making Identity Count Project

The Making Identity Count (MIC) project is a constructivist, intersubjective database of national identities of mostly major powers (Brazil, China, Estonia, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, USSR/Russia, USA, and UK) at a gap of every ten years (1950, 1960, 1970, 1980, 1990, 2000, 2010, 2020).

The project was initiated in 2015 to address a theoretical and methodological issue at the heart of constructivist research in International Relations — while qualitative/interpretivist approaches were great at recovering/producing the richness of identity discourses, they could not preserve reliability across different spatio-temporal contexts, thus limiting their applicability. Conversely, positivist/quantitative approaches to identity relied on reductive, a priori generalisations that sacrificed validity at the altar of reliability. Thus, the project had a simple aim in mind: to build a method that recovers identity in a manner that preserves the semantic richness of interpretivist techniques along with the reliability of positivist research.

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A Campus that Reflects India: Diversity, Belonging and Community at Ashoka

Befittingly located in a sprawling campus where lush green trees whisper to each other, long corridors hum of youthful voices and the redbrick walls talk of excellence, 51��� stands tall in the Indian education fabric not only because of its interdisciplinary curriculum but also because it has intentionally cultivated a campus where students irrespective of ability, background, identity or language learn in an environment that respects the individuality thus fostering equity in thought and conduct.

51���, by its policy of inclusivity, has successfully engineered a sense of belongingness and community where students from different social and economic settings can comfortably blend in without being judged. It is no wonder that the campus reflects the diversity of India, where students of all backgrounds converge to interact and thrive with the common goal of becoming altruistic leaders.

Unity in Diversity

51��� has welcomed students from all educational boards, including JNVs, KVs, CBSE, ICSE, and state boards, staying true to its mission of providing a well-rounded education to a diverse range of learners, integrating them into a unified group of young leaders who take pride in their history while actively shaping their present for a brighter future. The admission process is quite comprehensive and considers not just academic excellence but also co-curricular achievements. The application considers a student's gradual academic progress from class 10 to 12, personal essays, a letter of recommendation and a one-to-one interview. What is satisfying is the nicely arranged timeline that gives a student ample time to make decisions and prepare for each aspect of the application process without feeling rushed. The conscious decision to have this mixed bag of students from rigorous and elite ICSE schools to rural-focused JNV is to allow a fluid mixing of thoughts and ideas to create the Ashokan brand: conscious of grassroots problems, critical of policies and creative in offering fresh, feasible solutions.

Unique Pairing

Ashoka offers an excellent housing policy wherein students from different countries, cities and languages are housed together, offering a beautiful blend of culture and perspectives. The Dorm Olympics, organised by the Resident Assistants once every year, is an interesting and unique ice breaker to bridge the gulf between cities, cultures and economic status. The vibrant common rooms conveniently located at every Residence Hall make it easy for one and all to mull around and find someone of a similar thought process. A year on campus definitely forges bonhomie among students from Nagaland to Kerala, from Ethiopia to Canada! Added to the above are 40 student-driven clubs and societies that offer something to cater to every diverse interest and aptitude, thus leading to the gradual building of a unique, creative and cohesive cohort.

Supportive Infrastructure

51���’s empathy is visible in the grand infrastructure conducive to students facing physical and mental challenges. Instructions are offered in braille across the campus, ramps and spacious elevators offer easy movement for students with disabilities, and the Office of Learning Support truly is supportive in its willingness to offer added help to students facing difficulties. The round-the-clock wardens cannot be disregarded as they often go out of their way to care for a sick child, offering much relief to worried parents.

An Ashokan never goes to sleep hungry. The innumerable eating joints on the campus and the vending machines enable a student to grab a bite if they have failed to go to the mess on time while preparing for a project or completing an assignment. Special mention for the excellent and well-equipped Sports Complex to keep the sporty students entertained and engaged.

Abolishing the Rural and the Urban

One of the most appealing factors of 51��� is its policy of offering scholarships to students of potential. Studying in a reputed university with a multifaceted curriculum is no longer a distant dream for students who want to make a mark in their lives. This policy helps the university to blend the rural and the urban thoughts and culture, thereby keeping the atmosphere of the campus much grounded and realistic.

Collaborative Campus Culture

The university calendar is filled with events that offer a throbbing platform for students of various backgrounds, languages and streams to come together to collaborate and deliver successful programs celebrating diverse cultural heritage. Initiatives like 'Haats' expose the international and non-local students to local Haryanvi culture and heritage, whereas 'Safarnama' allows the students to undertake a ‘safar’ or journey across Delhi exploring its rich history, culture and cuisine.

In conclusion, one cannot help but agree that Ashoka has opened the doors for a free flow of not just ideas but also perspectives to develop conscientious individuals who would learn how to coexist in harmony despite the differences.

The Melting Pot
~ Soha Brahma

Straight from school, piping hot,
Students are thrown into a pot.
Shades of red, green and yellow,
They are all kinds - boisterous, loud and mellow.

A common ground to blend,
They develop their unique trend.
With residue from their past,
They metamorphose fast,
To be individuals, more aware and new.
Like them, you will find very few!

- Written by Soha Brahma, Economics and Finance Major, 51���

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Clubbing Entrepreneurially: From Campus to Community – The Making of Two High-Impact Rotaract Initiatives

This year, the Rotaract Club of 51��� Youth took on two major projects that, from the outside, may have looked like simple community service events: a 127-donor blood donation drive on campus and a 150-beneficiary health camp in Asawarpur village but behind the scenes, both were built entirely from scratch, requiring planning, coordination, outreach, problem-solving, and the mindset to create something where nothing existed before. What connects these initiatives is not just the impact they made, but the way they were designed and executed by Rotaractors who believed that meaningful work grows through intention, structure, and adaptation.

The Blood Donation Drive: Building a High-Trust Initiative on Campus
When you walk into a blood donation drive, you see the end product: volunteers at the registration desk, the medical team working calmly, and donors sitting in neat lines. What you don't see is everything before the first drop of blood is collected. The idea began with a simple observation: although blood shortages are a persistent issue in India, universities like Ashoka are rarely used as regular donation hubs. With a young and healthy student and staff community, the potential was obvious. Turning that potential into reality, however, required building the entire system step by step.

The planning stage involved aligning three ‘stakeholders’: the university administration, the Rotary Club of Sonipat Midtown, and the Rotary Blood Bank of Delhi, each having different concerns, requirements, and processes. Dozens of conversations were needed to sort out logistics, safety protocols, permissions, medical needs, and timing. At the same time, the team had to think about the student community and the question that mattered most: how do you convince people to donate? Communication became one of the most significant parts of the project. Posters, emailers, class announcements, and social media reels all played a role. The message that "one donation can help save three lives" became the backbone of our honest, simple outreach. Slowly, interest began to grow.

The real test arrived on the day of the drive. The RH2 Lounge, usually a quiet space, was transformed into a bustling pop-up medical centre. The pace was unpredictable from the moment the medical team set up. Lines formed faster than expected, volunteers had to switch roles constantly, and several parts of the layout had to be adjusted on the spot to keep the workflow smooth. Every few minutes, a new decision was required. This was where operations management principles suddenly became real; concepts like identifying bottlenecks, mapping processes, and balancing workload, taught in the classroom, became essential tools. When the registration table slowed down and an unexpected influx of donors arrived during lunchtime, volunteers divided tasks to keep things moving. When queues grew near the vitals station, the layout was shifted, and the entire team worked together to restore smooth flow.

By the end of the day, more than 180 people had shown up to donate, of whom 127 students and staff successfully donated blood, saving up to 381 lives. But the most valuable lessons were not numerical. The drive taught us how to plan under uncertainty, communicate with empathy, align multiple stakeholders, solve problems on the spot, and stay calm when things didn't go according to plan. These are skills associated with entrepreneurship, not only in the sense of starting a business, but in building something meaningful piece by piece and watching it come alive.

The Health Camp: Creating Access Where It Didn't Exist
A few weeks later, Rotaract stepped into a very different environment: Asawarpur village. Unlike the blood drive, which relied on familiar and well-understood campus systems, spaces, and community, the health camp placed us in entirely new territory. It was our first time organising something of this scale outside Ashoka, without the comfort of campus infrastructure or the predictability of our usual workflows. We did not know the location well, had no established sense of how people moved through the village, and had little idea of what unforeseen challenges might arise on the day.

We were working with a community that did not know us, did not recognise our systems, and had no prior reason to trust the services we were bringing. This made the project not just a logistical challenge, but a challenge of building relationships and trust with a new community. It required sensitivity, adaptability, and a willingness to step far outside the comfort and structure of campus life. And in doing so, it pushed us to grow in ways the blood donation drive never had to.

The idea came from recognising a gap in local healthcare access. Even basic screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, vision, or ENT issues are often unavailable or unaffordable in nearby villages. A health camp could fill that gap- but only if people showed up. Awareness-building quickly became a project in its own right. Volunteers walked through the village, put up banners and posters, and explained the camp's purpose in simple, clear terms. They addressed doubts, reassured families, and built personal connections. Making someone believe the benefits of attending a health camp, we discovered, is very similar to convincing someone to try something new: trust, clarity, and repetition matter far more than dramatic messaging.

T minus zero: the village community centre had been transformed into a temporary clinic, complete with stations for blood pressure checks, blood sugar tests, eye screenings, ENT and PFT tests, and general consultations. Volunteers sat at each table, guiding residents through the process, keeping records, answering questions, and ensuring the environment felt comfortable and welcoming. Challenges surfaced almost immediately.

The location, though spacious, was slightly farther from the main residential area, causing slower footfall. Instead of waiting passively, the Rotaract team returned to the village, going door to door and encouraging residents to come. Attendance picked up quickly, and soon every station was crowded. Throughout the day, the team had to adapt continuously. When registration slowed, roles were reassigned. When one station experienced a sudden rush, volunteers shifted to help with documentation or crowd management. Each adjustment brought greater ease and coordination. The operations management concepts we had practised during the blood drive resurfaced, this time in a very different setting, with its own challenges.

By the end of the camp, nearly 150 people had received check-ups. Many discovered health conditions they were previously unaware of, while others were grateful for the chance to receive guidance they had postponed for years. The impact was tangible, but the lessons were even more profound. We learned how to design an intervention in an unfamiliar environment, communicate with external stakeholders, adapt quickly, and coordinate a team under unpredictable conditions.

We also realised where we could have done better. Choosing a location closer to where most villagers lived would have made the camp more accessible, and it taught us that consumer convenience is not a minor detail; it can significantly shape turnout and participation. We also saw the need for clearer follow-up guidance. If someone was diagnosed with high blood pressure, vision issues, or abnormal sugar levels, what were their next steps? Which clinic should they visit? How urgent was the condition? Creating an effective system for directing people toward further care is now recognised as essential. These reflections have become a crucial part of our learning and have prepared us for our next health camp.

Two Projects, One Philosophy
Although the blood drive and the health camp took place in very different environments, they were united by one underlying philosophy: the belief that meaningful impact can be built from the ground up. Both initiatives started as simple observations about gaps in access. Turning those observations into functioning projects required initiative, structure, creativity, adaptability, and teamwork. This year, Rotaract didn't just run two events. We built two full-fledged models- one for campus blood donation drives and one for community health camps. Both can now be refined, scaled, and carried forward by future teams. What we built together is larger than the events themselves, and the impact will continue long after this year's team has moved on. Yet, beyond the systems and structures, the objective measure of impact was far more tangible: in the smiles of the villagers, the gratitude in their words, and the blessings shared by elders who left the camp. These moments make every effort worthwhile and remind us why this work truly matters.

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51��� Centres Expo 2025

51��� hosted the second edition of the Centres Expo on 18 November 2025, bringing together all the research and practice centres at Ashoka to the Mess Lawns. Themed ‘Unlocking Potential’, this year’s Expo invited the Ashoka community to discover the remarkable initiatives, interdisciplinary collaborations, and meaningful work being undertaken by the diverse centres.

The Expo featured stalls from 18 centres, including Archives of Contemporary India, Ashoka Centre for a People-Centric Energy Transition, Centre for China Studies, Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability, The Centre for the Creative and the Critical, Safexpress Centre for Data, Learning, and Decision Sciences, Centre for Data Science and Analytics, Centre for Digitalisation, AI and Society, InfoEdge Centre for Entrepreneurship, Centre for Health Analytics, Research and Trends, Centre for Interdisciplinary Archaeological Research, Centre for Social and Behaviour Change, Centre for Social Impact and Philanthropy, Centre for Studies in Gender and Sexuality, Centre for Translation, Isaac Centre for Public Policy, Koita Centre for Digital Health, and the Research and Development Office.

Each stall highlighted the centre’s ongoing projects, upcoming programmes, and avenues for student engagement - from internships and research opportunities to volunteer roles and event collaborations.
To make the experience more interactive, two engaging student activities - the Centres Expo Passport Challenge and the Ultimate Treasure Hunt were organised in collaboration with the Resident Assistants and Jazbaa, respectively. Both activities saw enthusiastic participation, encouraging students to visit multiple stalls, solve clues, collect stamps, and note down interesting insights along the way. The participants got a chance to win Blue Tokai coupons and also gain a deeper understanding of the pioneering work being done by the University’s centres.

Overall, Centres Expo 2025 saw active participation from Ashoka’s faculty, students and staff members, in line with the University’s collaborative spirit and shared commitment to advancing knowledge and creating meaningful social impact. The event concluded with a strengthened resolve to work together towards meaningful outcomes.

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“My Journey at Ashoka Began with Opening a Door”: Navvya Rahate

Reflecting on life, people often describe it in terms of doors: opening one, closing another, or choosing between them. Doors represent a choice, an opportunity. For me, my journey at Ashoka also began with opening a literal door. I was excited about college. I did not know many people, but I knew I would fit in.
On the very first day I moved in, my heart was full of excitement. But the moment my parents left my room, reality sank in. I was all alone. I knew just one person on my floor, so I clung to her. That evening, Ashoka hosted its game night for freshers. The two of us decided to go. We were torn between the karaoke room and the Mafia room, and finally chose Mafia. That decision changed everything.

As soon as I opened that door, I noticed two equally overwhelmed faces. We struck up a conversation and ended up having dinner together afterwards. Those two strangers became my best friends. In them, I found deep friendship, love, and support: a sense of belonging and motivation that shaped the way I experienced Ashoka.

I often think back and wonder what might have happened if I had not opened that door. Out of all the choices and mistakes I made here, I will always remain grateful for that one. By opening that door, I found the people who made Ashoka my home, and that made all the difference.

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“Growth is Stitched Together by Countless Moments that Change You”: Shivam Adhikari

From St Joseph’s College in Nainital to Ashoka in Sonipat, my journey has been one of profound personal transformation. Coming from the tranquil ‘Lake City’ of Uttarakhand, I carried anxiety and uncertainty, unsure how I would fit into a place that would be my home for four years.

At Ashoka, I have learnt that growth isn’t tied to one milestone; it’s stitched together by countless moments that change you in ways you can’t predict. As Antoine de Saint-Exupéry wrote, “Well, I must endure the presence of a few caterpillars if I wish to become acquainted with the butterflies.”

My Caterpillar Moment came when I was cast in the play Salome. Performing in the Black Box Theatre allowed me to express myself like never before, giving me the confidence to break down the barriers I had built around myself. That courage carried me through other defining experiences- whether serving as Deputy Fest Secretary of Samaras, our inclusive sports fest, or sharing quiet moments of exploration with friends.

Guided by the philosophy of ‘learn, unlearn, and relearn’, I remain grateful for the new paths Ashoka continues to open for me.

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“Challenge Yourself With the Things You Fear”: Vaishnavi Saumya

When I first arrived at Ashoka, I was a quiet, hesitant first-year, convinced I would fail at anything I tried. For a long time, I held myself back, believing that everyone around me was far more talented. My Caterpillar Moment came when I began saying yes to things that once scared me: playing volleyball - a sport I had never tried before, and joining clubs and projects far outside my comfort zone.

Each small step I took - showing up to practice, planning an event, sitting down to code for my project - became a milestone of confidence. I learnt that growth doesn’t come from being the best, but from daring to begin. There will always be someone more skilled than us, and that’s okay; what matters is giving our personal best. Over time, these small steps built my confidence, allowing me to move from timid participant to campus-wide leader, first as Events Head of SLAB and later as Co-President of FarmFresh.

To anyone reading this, I would say: challenge yourself with the things you fear. Whether you are learning, teaching, or simply trying, every experience adds up in ways you can’t yet see. Sometimes, the very things that once intimidated you become the spaces where you feel most at home.

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“I Realised that Transformation Itself is Continuous”: Avinash Rai

When I first stepped into 51���, I thought I had already pushed past my comfort zone. In school, I had pushed myself into leadership roles, debates, and responsibilities that constantly challenged me. I arrived here believing I had already undergone that transformation.

But Ashoka quickly showed me that growth isn’t a one-time shift. It’s not about breaking out of your shell once and for all, but about recognising new shells forming and choosing to break them again and again. Whether it was speaking up in a class full of brilliant peers, navigating entirely new disciplines, or learning to balance failure with resilience, I realised each stage demanded that I stretch further than before.

What struck me most was how this cycle doesn’t end. Just when I thought I had grown, I would encounter a new experience that pushed me to rethink, relearn, and reimagine myself. And instead of seeing that as exhausting, I began to see it as the very essence of growth, an ongoing process that keeps you open to the unfamiliar and the uncomfortable.

My Caterpillar Moment wasn’t about one dramatic event, but about realising that transformation itself is continuous. At Ashoka, I’ve learnt that each time you think you’ve fully grown, there is another version of yourself waiting to evolve.

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From Hackathon Organiser to AI Researcher: Medini Chopra’s Journey

When Medini Chopra first joined the RedBrick Hacks organising team in 2022, they could not have anticipated how profoundly the experience would shape their academic and professional trajectory. Currently pursuing a master's degree in computer science at Northwestern University, Chopra reflects on how organising one of their university's most ambitious hackathons became a cornerstone of their personal and professional development.

The Genesis of a Vision

Medini's involvement with RedBrick Hacks began during the early conceptual discussions in 2020-2021, when the idea of hosting a university-wide hackathon was first taking shape. They subsequently assumed the role of Media and Outreach Coordinator for RedBrick Hacks 2022, playing a crucial role in bringing the event's visual identity to life. Their contributions spanned promotional materials, lanyard design, and standees that would become iconic elements of the event.

The transition from online planning to in-person execution during the summer of 2022 presented unique challenges. Chopra recalls the intense heat and extended shifts that characterised the organising period, alongside the remarkable team spirit that emerged from these demanding conditions. "We all got really close as an organising committee," they remember, "having to do the long shifts, wake up really early, and everyone's kind of all over the place, tired." Despite the exhaustion, the team found moments of joy and connection—including the FuelZone mango milkshake breaks that became a cherished tradition.

Beyond the Event: Skills That Transfer

Chopra's contribution to the event's broader visual and organisational framework proved to be more than a creative exercise. The experience became a masterclass in project management, communication, and rapid problem-solving under pressure.

"I learned a lot of transferable skills," Chopra explains, "like project management, how to talk to people, how to think quickly, because there was a lot of logistical stuff that had to be figured out." The collaborative and often informal nature of the organising team meant that everyone undertook various tasks, fostering a versatility that would prove invaluable in their future endeavours.

Perhaps most significantly, the hackathon provided Chopra with direct exposure to the innovation ecosystem they would later join as a researcher. As they note, "I'm also part of The Garage @ Northwestern, it's their startup space." Interacting with participants throughout the event offered inspiring glimpses into the dedication and creativity that drives technological innovation. "It was very inspiring to see everyone's drive to build something and just kind of be up all night with their teammates trying to fix some bugs," they recall. "The atmosphere was really fun."

Academic Pursuits and Research Excellence

Chopra worked as a Research Assistant on several projects under the Mphasis AI & Applied Tech lab. The impact of this research extended far beyond academic circles when their findings were published in ThePrint's premium offering, reaching a readership of over 13 million people. This publication represented a significant achievement in translating complex computational research into accessible insights for public consumption.

This foundational research experience, combining machine learning, natural language processing, and social media analysis, established Chopra as a researcher capable of tackling large-scale data problems with real-world implications. The organisational and interpersonal skills developed through RedBrick Hacks, combined with this substantial research portfolio, positioned them perfectly for their subsequent master's program at Northwestern University.

At Northwestern, Chopra embraced the institution's philosophy of "CS plus X"—the integration of computer science with other disciplines. Working under the Human-AI Collaboration Lab, advised by Prof. Matthew Groh, they focused on studying the creativity of humans in the landscape of generative AI. They are also part of the Design, Technology, and Research lab, which focuses on experiential computing and visualising key differences in how the same human experiences are realised across geographical locations.

They have gained comprehensive expertise across data science, natural language processing, human-computer interaction, and full-stack engineering. Additionally, they hold a bachelor's degree in Kathak and have developed creative cross-disciplinary thinking by connecting their two passions: computer science and music.

Advice for the Next Generation

Drawing from their diverse experiences, Chopra offers valuable guidance for current computer science students. Rather than focusing solely on memorising algorithms, they advocate for developing strong problem-solving paradigms and pursuing projects that genuinely inspire passion and commitment.

"Don't silo yourself," Chopra advises, emphasising the importance of gaining transferable skills that extend beyond pure technical expertise. Their journey from hackathon organiser to AI researcher exemplifies this philosophy, demonstrating how experiences that might seem peripheral to one's primary field of study can become foundational to future success.

Lasting Impact

Chopra is currently interning in the financial technology sector as an AI Analyst at Cboe Global Markets. This role represents the perfect synthesis of their academic research background and the practical application of AI technologies in real-world financial systems.

Their unique combination of computer science excellence, dance training, and hackathon organising experience exemplifies the power of interdisciplinary thinking in today's technology landscape. As they continue their work in human-AI collaboration at the intersection of finance and technology, Chopra carries forward the collaborative spirit and innovative mindset that defined their RedBrick Hacks experience. Their journey serves as an inspiring example for current students of how embracing diverse opportunities and developing transferable skills can open pathways to meaningful and impactful careers that transcend traditional boundaries.

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Breaking Barriers: Tackling Educational Accessibility on International Platform

Vaanee, a student researcher at 51���, has achieved international recognition for her innovative accessibility technology project at the 27th International Conference on Human-Computer Interaction in Sweden (June 2025). The project, called "Dots," addresses a critical educational challenge by making visual STEM concepts accessible to visually impaired students through real-time tactile conversion. The system transforms visual elements like graphs and data representations into tactile formats using two key components: a live-action camera that captures visual content and a machine that converts this information into Braille output in real-time, enabling visually impaired students to participate fully in classroom learning.

The project emerged from Vaanee's longstanding interest in accessible technology and a pivotal conversation with Professor Debayan Gupta, who presented the challenge of helping blind students understand graphs taught in class in real-time. This user-centered approach became the foundation of the project, with Vaanee emphasizing that working in accessibility requires a design process that extends far beyond prototyping. While existing software solutions can simplify graphs using screen reader software and Braille displays, these technologies are often expensive and not readily available. Dots aims to democratize inclusive technology by making it accessible to everyone, addressing both the technical and economic barriers that prevent widespread adoption of assistive learning tools.

The project's impact extends beyond the classroom, with Vaanee gaining valuable insights into user-first design principles that inform all aspects of her laboratory work. The real-time conversion capability distinguishes Dots from existing solutions, ensuring that visually impaired students can engage with visual content simultaneously with their peers, rather than receiving processed information after the fact. This approach supports a more integrated and inclusive educational experience, addressing the fundamental challenge of ensuring equal access to visual learning materials in STEM education.

The conference presentation has opened significant opportunities for Vaanee, including publication in a peer-reviewed journal and feedback from international experts in human-computer interaction and accessibility technology. These professional connections have expanded her post-undergraduate opportunities while validating the project's potential impact. The project remains in the prototype stage, with plans for development in the digital makerspace and eventual classroom deployment. Vaanee's commitment to advancing this work is evident in her decision to continue Dots as her undergraduate thesis, positioning her to further refine the technology and explore its broader applications in inclusive education.

 The success of this project demonstrates how student-driven research can address real-world challenges while building expertise in emerging fields like accessibility technology and human-computer interaction.

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“Microscopes Aren’t Just Tools of Discovery, They are Windows Into the Unknown”: Dr Hari Shroff

Dr Hari Shroff is a globally recognised leader in advanced optical imaging and microscopy. Currently a Senior Group Leader at the Janelia Research Campus (HHMI), he is best known for developing high-resolution, live-cell imaging tools that have transformed how scientists observe biological systems in real-time. After completing his Ph.D. in Biophysics at UC Berkeley, Shroff worked alongside Nobel Laureate Eric Betzig at Janelia, contributing to the development of super-resolution techniques such as PALM. He later led the Section on High‑Resolution Optical Imaging at the NIH, where he continued to push the boundaries of light microscopy. In this engaging conversation at 51��� - part of the Lodha Genius Programme's Great Ideas Seminar series - Dr Shroff shares his journey from building his first instrument as a teenager to leading pioneering research, reflects on the power of interdisciplinary collaboration, and highlights the inspiring energy of India’s next generation of scientists.

You’ve worn many hats - physicist, computer scientist, biologist. How do you personally define your identity as a scientist? What do you call yourself?
Hari: In my work, I'm kind of uncomfortable with labels because our work spans a great number of things, as you've just said. You know, my bread and butter is sort of taking tools from physics and engineering and building tools to inform biologists about things that they can see. If I had to call myself something, I guess I would say I'm a microscopist. I like to build microscopes. And I'm passionate about applying them to image biology.

You’re based at the Janelia Research Campus - a name that sparks curiosity but doesn’t immediately reveal what the place is about. Could you tell us more about what Janelia is and what makes it unique as a research environment?
Hari: Janelia Research Campus is part of the larger Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), which is the second-largest nonprofit biomedical funder in the world after the Wellcome Trust. In the early 2000s, HHMI was thriving and primarily supported labs across the United States through grants. At the time, with its endowment performing well, the institute had a choice: either expand its funding to support twice as many university scientists or explore a new direction for impactful investment.

They chose the latter, establishing a dedicated research campus designed to foster a "biological Bell Labs" environment. The goal was to create a space where scientists could pursue ambitious biomedical questions that often fall outside the scope of conventional funding. What began as a rough idea sketched on a napkin eventually took shape in 2005–06. The building was completed in 2006, and I was among its first employees.

As for the name "Janelia", it’s a unique one, and there's a charming story behind it. The campus is located on several hundred acres in Virginia, about an hour outside Washington, D.C. The land was originally a historic farm, owned by a farmer who had two daughters named Jane and Cornelia. When the property was sold, one condition was that the name "Janelia" (a blend of Jane and Cornelia) be preserved. The campus was initially called the Janelia Farm Research Campus, though over time, the "Farm" was dropped.

Janelia brings together physicists, biologists, and computer scientists - all under one roof, collaborating closely. What does a typical day look like for you in such an interdisciplinary environment?
Hari: One of the most unique aspects of Janelia is that it was intentionally designed to bring biologists and tool builders together - a collaboration that doesn’t always come easily in traditional academic settings. Although the campus is relatively small, with fewer than a thousand people, everyone works in a single building. This setup fosters a high frequency of spontaneous interactions, what we like to call "collisional" exchanges - between physicists, biologists, and other scientists. My day typically involves a mix of activities: mentoring and supporting my team, pursuing our own research, brainstorming ideas with colleagues, and collaborating across labs. I also share access to my microscope to help others advance their work — it’s a very collaborative and dynamic environment.

Do you incorporate AI in your work, particularly in tracking brain development or analysing biological systems?
Hari: Yes, we do use AI to some extent. Microscopy often involves difficult trade-offs - for instance, to see finer details, you need to shine more light, which can damage the sample. Or if you want to capture images faster, you reduce the signal in each frame, lowering the signal-to-noise ratio. These physical limitations make things challenging. That’s where AI, particularly deep learning, becomes valuable. That said, a key caveat remains: AI is only as good as the data it's trained on. Like arge language models, these tools can "hallucinate" when faced with unfamiliar inputs.

So while they’re powerful additions to our toolkit, they must be used with care and a clear understanding of their limitations.

You started incredibly early - I believe you built your first scientific instrument when you were just 16. That’s quite different from what most teenagers are doing at that age. What led you down that path?
Hari: I may have been a bit older, but yes, I built my first instrument around that time. I was fortunate to have an unconventional academic journey. I enrolled early in a special programme at the University of Washington that allowed students to skip high school and begin college. It was the right fit for me - traditional schooling wasn’t quite meeting my academic needs.

It was a lucky and formative experience. I had the freedom to try things, to turn theoretical concepts into something real. That early exposure to hands-on research - using what I’d just learned to explore something unknown - was probably what sparked my lasting fascination with academic science.

What stood out to you about 51���?
Hari: On the academic side, I toured several labs and was genuinely impressed - the facilities and quality of research here are on par with top U.S. universities, and in some cases, even better funded. For example, your light microscopy facility, which is free to use, is extraordinary - even at Janelia, we have to allocate lab budgets to access similar equipment. On the student side, it’s been a joy engaging with such bright, motivated individuals. It’s inspiring to see young minds come together, network, and explore cutting-edge tools and ideas. Opportunities like this are rare, and my advice to anyone here would be: make the most of it.

What is the message that you would like to give to youngsters who would like to explore the micro world?
Hari: I think it's a great time to be a microscopist, and the wonderful thing about exploring the micro world is that there's plenty of room. So, you know, if you decide to go into science, if microscopy is a large part of your world tool, chances are very, very good. You will see something that nobody has ever seen before. So let that be, maybe, hopefully, an inspiration to you to use microscopes in your work.

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“No One Owns the Sky, It’s Shared by Everyone”: Brian P Schmidt and Raja Guha Thakurta Talk About Cosmos

51��� hosted two globally renowned astrophysicists - Nobel Laureate Professor Brian P Schmidt and Professor Raja Guha Thakurta, Chair of Astronomy at UC Santa Cruz. In a wide-ranging conversation, they spoke about dark matter and dark energy, surprising moments in their research journeys, and the importance of nurturing curiosity in young minds. From cosmic mysteries to personal reflections, the dialogue offered a rare glimpse into the human side of science.

Astronomy is mysterious in many ways. Brian, your work focuses on the expansion of the universe, which you say is happening at a rapid rate. How does that impact our lives, and how would you explain this concept to someone who isn't an astrophysicist?
Brian- It turns out you can explain it to a lay audience quite effectively, but it takes about 50 minutes! I’ll actually be giving one of those talks here on Wednesday night. You need to take people through the history of how we got to where we are today. The story of the universe is actually quite intuitive, with a few surprises along the way. It's very appealing and starts to make sense once you hear it.

Most people go through the explanation and come out thinking, “Wow, this is the universe I live in.” We’re just a tiny speck in this vast universe, and yet we’re somehow able to understand so much about it. Of course, some mysteries remain, but we’ve made tremendous progress in understanding our place in the cosmos. That’s very empowering and captivating. In the end, it’s a story that gives people a sense of what humanity is capable of.

We have a lot of problems to solve, and staying optimistic isn’t a bad thing right now. It’s also humbling to realise how minuscule we are, and that the universe doesn’t particularly care about us. But that’s useful knowledge too.

How would you differentiate between dark matter and dark energy?
Raja- I use a one-liner when I talk to my students: “Dark matter sucks, and dark energy is truly repulsive.” They have opposite effects. Dark matter pulls things in; its gravity works just like the gravity of ordinary matter, like that of the Sun or the Earth. But dark energy has an anti-gravity character; it pushes things outward. In Einstein’s equations of general relativity, they appear on the right-hand side but have opposite effects.

Brian- About 95% of the universe seems to be made up of dark matter and dark energy. As Raja mentioned, they have competing effects but are unified by the term “dark.” The reason they’re called “dark” is that the only way we know they exist is by observing how they affect the universe on large scales. We can't detect them in labs on Earth, at least, not yet. We’d love to, but for now, we know of them only through astronomy.

Would you say astronomy not only leads to technological spinoffs but also helps us understand our past and possibly our future as well?
Brian- Yes, absolutely. Another important aspect of astronomy is that it's global. No one owns the sky, it’s shared by everyone. Humanity has rallied around the skies for our entire existence. Even today, Russian and American scientists can collaborate on space research, even if they can’t work together in other fields. So astronomy is also a kind of global commons, something very few other subjects have achieved over hundreds of years. It adds yet another dimension to its value.

Raja, you moved your focus from our own galaxy to Andromeda. Why did you choose Andromeda, and what makes it so fascinating?
Raja- One of the challenges in studying our own galaxy is that we’re stuck inside it. We don’t have a long enough selfie stick to see ourselves from the outside! Andromeda gives us that vicarious "selfie stick." We can see individual stars within it, but also the entire structure as a whole.

The analogy I like to use is this: imagine being stuck in your bedroom your entire life. The walls are translucent, you can kind of see into the next room, but not clearly through the whole house. You don't really know what your house looks like from the outside. Your best bet is to look out the window and observe the houses nearby. If you live in a condo complex, chances are those houses are similar, so by studying your neighbour’s house, you learn something about your own. That’s what Andromeda is for us: a neighbouring galaxy that helps us understand our own.

While making your observations or extracting data from telescopes, have you ever come across a surprise that made you go, “Wow, I didn’t see that coming”?
Brian- Yes! I remember one such moment clearly. I was out observing supernovae in 1994, and I got a call from a man named Brian, he's since passed away, who worked with the IAU Circular, the team that tracks comets and asteroids.

He said, “I need you to point your telescope at this patch of the sky and tell me what you see.” So I did. I took a picture, and there were seven puffy balls in a row in the image. I had never seen anything like it. I called him and said, “What on Earth is this?” He laughed and said, “Oh, it’s real.” Turns out, it was a comet that had passed by Jupiter and broken up into a string of fragments, which later became known as Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9. He asked me to immediately report all the positions of those fragments. So that picture I took became one of the confirmation images of the comet, an unforgettable surprise.

Raja, did you also witness that moment? Or have you had a similar experience?
Raja- I do remember the Shoemaker-Levy 9 moment very well. The Hubble Space Telescope captured incredible images of the impacts. What happened was, Jupiter’s differential gravity broke the comet into pieces, like beads on a string. As each piece crashed into Jupiter’s atmosphere, Hubble took images and spectra to study the resulting chemical changes.

It was like watching a live experiment unfold in space. Jupiter was essentially throwing rocks at itself, and the comet fragments broke apart and were swallowed one by one. That year, 1994, was my only year working at the Space Telescope Science Institute. Hubble had just been repaired in December 1993 and received its corrective optics. The images of those temporary dark spots on Jupiter’s surface were amazing. It was like seeing ripples in a pond gradually fade away. The chemistry and physics of that ripple fascinated me. Very few things in astronomy happen on human timescales, but this was one of those rare exceptions.

Since astronomy is so mysterious, there are often myths around it. What are some common myths or misconceptions you hear about astronomy and astrophysics?
Brian- There are many misconceptions, but one of the biggest involves black holes. For example, if the Sun were to suddenly, by divine intervention, turn into a black hole, the sky would go dark, but Earth would continue in its orbit unchanged. That's because the gravity of the black hole would be the same as the Sun’s, assuming it had the same mass.

People often think black holes suck things in like a vacuum cleaner, but they don’t. They’re not any more “hungry” than the Sun. Now, you can get a lot closer to a black hole before weird things happen, so yes, some extreme phenomena can occur. But the core gravity itself is not some magical force.

Raja- Another thing I encounter a lot, especially coming from India, is people confusing astronomy with astrology. One is a predictive belief system, and the other is a rigorous scientific field.

I know almost nothing about astrology, so I can’t comment on its methods, but I know enough to say they are completely different disciplines. In fact, I’ve stopped using the word "astronomer" and prefer saying "cosmologist" or "astrophysicist" because of the confusion.

Brian- But then you have the problem of people confusing cosmologists with cosmetologists! Which is funny because I know absolutely nothing about hair. There’s danger in every direction!

Raja- Yes, cosmetology and cosmology are both about the effects of time and gravity, just on very different scales!

Raja, have you ever been involved in a video game or any popular media?
Raja- Yes, actually! I was consulted for a game called ‘Mass Effect: Andromeda’. I’ve never played it, but during development, they asked me questions about the Andromeda galaxy. I was pleasantly surprised to see that what they wrote down from that interview was super accurate. They clearly valued factual precision and understood what we discussed very well. But to Brian’s point, I encourage people to be curious. Movies are meant to inspire imagination, not to be taken literally. They do a great job at that, and that’s their strength.

Brian- Exactly. I enjoyed Interstellar. I wasn’t sitting there thinking, “Let me write to Christopher Nolan and correct him.” You just have to accept it’s not a scientific journal, and that’s fine.

It can be hard for students, or even adults, to distinguish between science and fiction, especially if they haven't been educated in astrophysics. In India, for example, astrophysics isn’t widely taught in schools. So, when do you think students should begin learning about astronomy?
Raja- The foundational subjects for astronomy are math, physics, and a bit of chemistry, which are taught well in most school systems around the world, including India. Personally, I got interested in astronomy just by picking up a book at the library. The first one I read was Stellar Interiors by Ivan Novotny. It was way too hard for me at the time and should have discouraged me, but it didn’t!

My advice to students is: study beyond your school curriculum. Don’t let your education be limited to board exams or syllabi. The things you learn on your own, driven by your passion, are the ones that stick with you for life.

Self-paced learning is powerful. When you turn the page because you want to, not because the teacher told you to, that’s when real learning happens.

Brian- I completely agree. Astronomy can be a great hook, especially for younger students, to get interested in science, physics, math, and the broader scientific method. In Australia, astronomy is part of the primary school curriculum, especially for ages 5 to 12. It’s a great time to plant those seeds of curiosity. But in high school, it may not always fit into the standard structure. Still, there are plenty of ways to learn outside school. And there are many other free courses out there.

Like Raja said, it’s important to learn because you love it, not because you’re preparing for an exam. Learning shouldn’t feel like you're staring down the barrel of a gun. That’s not the way I was raised to learn, and I hope students everywhere can discover joy in curiosity.

Brian, what stood out to you about 51���?
Brian- I’m brand new here, but I’ve been very impressed. Ashoka represents a new kind of Indian university, one that focuses on the liberal arts, social sciences, and critical thinking, in addition to STEM. India already has strong institutions in engineering and science, but to build well-rounded leaders, you need universities like this, pan-disciplinary institutions that prepare students not just for jobs, but for thoughtful leadership.

Ashoka is only ten years old, and yet it already feels like it’s shaping a new path. My own university is just turning 80, which is still young by global standards. I’m very curious and hopeful to see where Ashoka will be in 15 or 20 years. India needs many more such institutions to meet the challenges and aspirations of the next generation. And I believe Ashoka is just the beginning.

Raja, you've been involved with Ashoka and the Lodha Genius Programme, especially through partnerships with high school students. What stands out to you about the University and the programme?
Raja- This is actually my third visit to Ashoka, and every time I come here, I think, I wish I had this kind of education when I was in college. My experience was the opposite: I studied only three subjects, physics, chemistry, and math. I didn’t have the breadth or space for liberal arts or critical thinking.

Ashoka students are getting that chance through the university, and now also through the Genius Programme. We're partnering through both Shadow the Scientists and the Science Internship Program, and for the first time, four students from Ashoka will be travelling to Santa Cruz this summer. They'll spend seven weeks doing real research with peers from around the world. I can’t wait to hear about their experiences; it will shape how we scale this in the future.

What’s one life lesson you’d like to share with young listeners? Something that helped you in your own journey?
Raja- I’ve been lucky to follow my heart, not just in astronomy, but also in education and art. My love for astronomy came from deprivation. I grew up in Calcutta, where you couldn’t see the night sky. So I found the stars in books and at the planetarium.

My advice? Don’t give up on your dreams. The path won’t be linear, and it won’t be easy. But if your heart's in it, it’s worth it.

Brian- I’ll echo that: have confidence in doing what you love. Don’t worry too early about whether it’s practical. When I started astronomy, I didn’t think I’d be an astronomer; I thought I’d gain useful skills, and I was right.

There isn’t one right path in life. There are many good ones. Every hand can be a winning hand if you play it well. So be bold, be curious, and trust yourself to shape the journey as it comes.

51���

“Follow Your Passion, Even If It’s Chasing Satellites in Pyjamas”: In Conversation with Nobel Laureate Sir Paul Nurse

Sir Paul Nurse - Nobel Laureate, former President of the Royal Society, and one of the world’s most respected geneticists - believes that all great science begins with wonder. From chasing Sputnik 2 across the night sky as a child to decoding the fundamental mechanisms of the cell cycle, throughout his career, Sir Paul has always had a deep love for discovery. During his visit to 51��� as part of the Lodha Genius Programme, he spoke candidly about his early fascination with nature and astronomy, the importance of understanding over description in modern science, and why students should follow their passions unapologetically. In this engaging conversation, he shares insights on his research, the long road from yeast to cancer studies, and the value of staying grounded, even after winning the most prestigious prize in science.

What got you interested in the world of science and discovery?
Sir Paul: I think it was a curiosity about the world around me, particularly the natural world, natural history, walking through parks and open land, butterflies, flowers, astronomy, and looking at how the stars changed at night. A particular thing that I remembered was seeing Sputnik 2, which is the second satellite that was sent up. It had a dog in it called Laika. I like dogs, and I read about it in the newspaper and then went out and watched it go over in the evening. I was enormously excited. I remember running down the street in my pyjamas trying to chase the satellite.

Your Nobel-winning discovery revolutionised the way we understand the cell cycle. How would you explain your research and the process of cell division to someone without a scientific background?
Sir Paul: I would say that we're all made of cells, and all growth and reproduction depend on cells reproducing themselves. And the cell cycle is the process that leads to the reproduction of one cell into two. So it's a fundamental process. What my work did was to identify the proteins that control the rate at which a cell proceeds through the events that are needed for a cell to successfully reproduce itself, and therefore, to undergo mitosis and cell division. These particular proteins act like a sort of pacemaker for going through that particular process. My lab also showed that the control we worked out from experiments working with yeast is obviously very simple, showing that exactly the same control worked in human beings. That means the same mechanism has been around for one and a half billion years. So much so that we could identify the human gene by putting it into a yeast cell and showing it worked exactly the same as the yeast gene.

What has been the significance of your research in shaping the world's understanding of diseases like cancer?
Sir Paul: I think this work is a basic discovery, and it tells us about the growth of all living things and their reproduction, at least for eukaryotes. That is, it doesn't apply to bacteria, but to cancer. It's relevant to cancer in two ways - one is that the proper cell cycle control ends up with the genome being properly copied and then being segregated, pushed into the two newly divided cells. That requires high-quality cell cycle control. And defects in cell cycle control can lead to genetic damage, which can lead to cancer. So it's critical for cancer for that purpose. The second reason why it's relevant is, of course, that cancer is cell division out of control, and if you don't understand the basic elements of control, you don't even really know what you mean by out of control. While I deeply value the contributions of my colleagues, I don't believe this work offers an immediate path to a cancer drug - it’s more about fundamental understanding than direct treatment. What I do say is, without understanding this, you can't think sensibly about how you should treat cancer.

Is there an area of biology or medicine that currently excites you and you think will particularly transform the space of biology in the future?
Sir Paul: I think the area in the general term is understanding the complexity of life and how it is generated for the purpose of behaviour, which is what happened. And that's an exceptionally difficult problem. Start with the sound, understanding how a cell works when it has tens of thousands of different chemical reactions going on in a purpose for how it is this way. So this means that it is for chemical problems, biochemical, molecular problems, and informational problems, about how all of this sticks together. So it’s an interesting period of how we can best combine the biochemical molecular world with very high-quality informational analysis.

What role do you think universities like Ashoka and programmes like the Lodha Genius Programme can play in shaping the future of science?
Sir Paul: I think that this programme, as far as I can fully understand it, is one that focuses on ideas in knowledge. I think that is extremely important because I get disturbed that modern science tends to focus too much on describing things rather than understanding things, and promoting thinking about understanding and the ideas that can lead to understanding is a critical part of science. I think this course is a way of encouraging that, at least in part.

What is your opinion of Ashoka as an institution?
Sir Paul: It's my first time coming to Ashoka. I know about the emperor, of course, so I know the name and where it comes from. And it's been a very interesting visit for me, I must admit. I've been to a number of teaching and research institutions in India. What strikes me here is how well put together it is, and for that matter, how enthusiastic the students seem to be. So it's two big pluses.

Winning a Nobel Prize is obviously a humongous professional achievement – but on a personal level, what value does it hold for you?
Sir Paul: I'm not sure. Apart from being known better and therefore to some extent a bit famous, it's of little value at all because the reality is you just get asked to do many, many other jobs. In fact, many of my colleagues who have won Nobel Prizes end up being frustrated because they are constantly being asked to do things, and in the end, they stop doing research. I've not done that. I keep doing the research. It is a plus in that people think, you know, you must be quite good at certain things, but also some people would like to pull you down because you have it, so sometimes people are a bit unfair to you as well. So in the end, those two things balance out.

Do you have a message for somebody who is entering their 20s in college right now? How do you think they should look at life?
Sir Paul: First of all, your life is before you, and what you do next will make your life. So, it's very important to think about that. But my advice in thinking about it is to follow your own passions for what you're interested in. And it has to be really inside you. You can talk to lots of people and get advice. It'll usually be on the conservative side. If you've got a passion for something, pursue it. That would be my main advice.

51���

Young India Fellowship Convocation 2025

51��� hosted the 14th Convocation Ceremony of the Young India Fellowship (YIF) on 27 June, honouring the Class of 2025. The on-campus celebration marked a significant milestone in the journey of the graduating Young India Fellows. The ceremony began with an evocative academic procession titled ‘Full Circle’, set to music composed by YIF alumni. The air was filled with excitement as Fellows, faculty, family, and friends gathered to commemorate a year of personal growth and unforgettable memories.

The YIF Convocation continued with a moving musical performance by Fellows from the Class of 2025. Through a carefully curated setlist of songs in Kannada, Hindi, and English, the Fellows paid tribute to the emotional and intellectual journey of the past year. From the soulful Amma Ninna Edeyaladalli, an ode to freedom and duality, to the powerful Yeh Honsla and Bawra Mann, the performances stirred deep emotion in the audience. The performers - Blanche Rodrigues, Denise Shailynti Noronha, Shamant Raghottam Desai, Helena Fuluifaga Chan Foung, Rusha Chatterjee, and Shweata Nagapati Hegde - were met with enthusiastic applause from the gathering for their soulful performance.

YIF Director Karan Bhola extended a warm welcome to the gathering and acknowledged the presence of several esteemed guests and members of the Ashoka community.

51��� Chancellor, Professor Rudrangshu Mukherjee, addressed the audience, sharing his thoughts on the Fellowship’s evolution and the personal connection he shares with every cohort since its inception.

“It has been my singular good fortune to have taught every single cohort of YIF since the inception of the programme…The YIF brought us together and, more importantly it gave to all of you a rather precious experience - the experience of studying together, living together, sharing your joys and sorrows together and through that experience you must have developed what Adam Smith in The Theory of Moral Sentiments called the ‘circles of empathy’… I offer to each of the Fellows my heartiest congratulations, and I urge each one of you to become good human beings, the best of Ashoka, the best for India and for the world.”

This was followed by an address from the Vice Chancellor, Professor Somak Raychaudhury, who commended the Class of 2025 for their intellectual courage, interdisciplinary curiosity, and commitment to building inclusive communities.

“As Vice-Chancellor, I have been deeply moved by the curiosity, care, and creativity our Fellows have brought to this campus. They have reaffirmed our belief that learning is not simply the transmission of knowledge, but a shared endeavour of questioning, rethinking, and reimagining… It is a matter of pride for all of us at Ashoka that our Fellows are stepping into diverse roles - from education consulting to public policy, brand marketing to management consulting, and government advisory to programme implementation. We are also delighted that many are entering global learning spaces through opportunities supported by Ashoka’s Office of Global Education, including the Semester Exchange Programme at Sciences Po, Paris, and the Birmingham International Summer School.”

Pramath Raj Sinha, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees and one of the founding forces behind the Young India Fellowship, introduced and welcomed the Chief Guest, Laila Tyabji, legendary craft activist, Padma Shri awardee, and co-founder of Dastkar. In his heartfelt address, he recounted her extraordinary journey - from her early days in a post-independence India to co-founding Dastkar, an organisation that has transformed the lives of over 1.5 lakh artisans across the country. Speaking to the values of creativity, compassion, and community that she embodies, he emphasised how Laila Tyabji’s life work aligns deeply with the ethos of the Fellowship. His remarks set the tone for an inspiring keynote that followed.

“Today, as you go out on your own journey, you are not just shaping your own life but reshaping the jigsaw of this complex Incredible India. Life and education are too precious to waste in being bored, being passive, missing opportunities, being second-rate, following peer pressure, sticking in your own narrow comfort zone… Growing up, I had the good fortune to have a father who told me, ‘I don’t care what you do in your life as long as you do it with passion and do it with pleasure’. I’ve carried that as a banner through my 70 years. I pass on that message to you.”

Director Karan Bhola presented a snapshot of the cohort during his address: 57 cities, 21 states, three countries, and over 25 languages represented. With 80% of Fellows on scholarships - many supported by HDFC Bank - the class embodied diversity in all its forms. Fellows engaged in eight rigorous academic terms, with courses spanning public policy, law, climate science, economics, and literature. Highlights included nine new courses and a robust Crossover speaker series, featuring luminaries like Aruna Roy, Dr Jayaprakash Narayan, and Padma Shri Pushpesh Pant.

Special Awards for Outstanding Fellows
The convocation also honoured individual and team achievements through the presentation of Special Awards:
YIF Scholar Award: Serene George (CGPA: 3.90), with runners-up Blanche Rodrigues and Shweata Nagapati Hegde, and third place Devyani Bharti Vijay Mahajan.
Torchbearer Awards: Ashritha Sardhu and Siddharth N Vijayaraghavan, recognised for their leadership, empathy, and service.
Spirit of YIF Awards: Helena Fuluifaga Chan Foung and Rutuja Sangeeta Sanjay Chavan, lauded for their vibrant presence and community contributions.
Cheistha Kochhar Memorial Honour: Pushpendra Chourdiya, awarded for his deep commitment to care and inclusion.

Outstanding ELM Awards
Three Experiential Learning Module (ELM) teams were recognised for their impactful work:
Team 1: Heer Nimavat, Kehkasha, Serene George - for their work on documenting queer performances and creating a multimedia archive.
Team 7: Abhishek Panchaal, Anushka Barthwal, Shweata Nagapati Hegde, Tanvi Saxena - for developing a climate change strategy board game.
Team 9: Afshan Nisar, Anshif Ekkadan, Devyani Bharti, Vijay Mahajan, Priyanka Singh - for designing a scalable framework for project-based learning in engineering colleges across Kerala.

Special Mentions were given to:

• Team 5: ‘Pahunch’ - Universal Accessibility in Higher Education
• Team 6: ‘Kadam Forward’ - Career guidance for underrepresented students
• Team 16: ‘Patch Stories’ - Designer toys made from upcycled textile waste

The Fellows of 2025 have secured placements across sectors and gained admission to prestigious institutions including Oxford, LSE, SOAS, and Imperial College London. Several will also represent Ashoka at international summer schools and fellowships. Their accomplishments not just exhibit academic excellence but also the values of empathy, collaboration, and innovation that the Fellowship stands for.

As the ceremony concluded with the Fellows’ rendition of the national anthem, everyone present at the gathering rose in a standing ovation - not just for the achievements of the past year, but for the promise these young leaders hold. The Young India Fellowship Class of 2025 carries forward the ethos of Ashoka: critical inquiry, compassionate leadership, and a commitment to social good.

51���

Carry Forward All You Have Learned and Fashion a Better Future”: Rudrangshu Mukherjee, Chancellor, 51���

Professor Rudrangshu Mukherjee, Chancellor of 51���, officially opened the Convocation Ceremony 2025 with a heartfelt and inspiring address.

He began by congratulating all the graduating students and those earning higher degrees. Professor Mukherjee described convocation day as a special occasion for the graduating students, their parents, relatives, and friends. He said, “In the hurly-burly of the university’s life, the day of the convocation is when we all come together in a proud and celebratory mood. Today is a day to rejoice as a fresh batch of our students leave the portals of 51��� and step into the wider world and its realities.”

He further urged the graduates to carry forward all they have learned during their time at Ashoka as they cross the threshold of the university and become responsible citizens who work to fashion a better future.

With these words of hope and encouragement, Professor Rudrangshu Mukherjee declared the 2025 convocation officially open, marking a proud beginning for the graduating class as they embark on their new journeys.

51���

“Remain Curious, Embrace Causes, and Remember to Laugh”: Nobel Laureate Sir Paul Nurse Addresses Ashoka’s Graduating Students

At 51���’s 2025 Convocation Ceremony, Chief Guest Sir Paul Nurse, Director of the Francis Crick Institute, Chancellor of the University of Bristol, and recipient of the 2001 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, delivered a memorable keynote address. Speaking to the graduating students, he reflected on the significance of their achievements and offered valuable advice to guide them as they step into the next phase of their lives.

Sir Paul Nurse began his speech by saying, “Graduation ceremonies mark one of the most significant moments in the life of a university - a celebration of the students’ hard-earned achievements.” Acknowledging the dedication and hard work of the graduating students, he continued, “It takes a lot of work to do well studying for a degree. You should be proud of yourselves. You will have worked hard for this day. And from this day on and for the rest of your lives, you will be graduates of this university.”

He reminded the students that such milestones are rarely achieved alone. He specifically acknowledged all those who played a key role in helping the students reach this day, parents, relatives, friends, supporters, professors, and the staff who keep the university running. “They are also proud of what you have achieved. You should thank them for that,” he urged. He continued, “They have all contributed in their own different ways to you being here today, and we are all proud of your achievements and of who you have become during your time here,” adding, “You will be part of this university for the rest of your life.”

Touching on the bittersweet nature of farewells, Sir Paul Nurse acknowledged the emotional transitions ahead. “It may be a poignant time for some of you, leaving behind friends and colleagues. It's a time of change, a time of transition, perhaps of nostalgia, even some sadness. But you are about to embark on a new phase of your life, one that will be exciting and full of possibilities. And wherever you go, whatever you do, remember what you have learned here. You will have been taught how to think, how to think critically, to value freedom of expression, and to challenge ideas and opinions.”

At the heart of his address was a powerful reflection on the purpose of education. Quoting Robert Hutchins of the University of Chicago, he said, "Education is not to reform students or to amuse them or even to make them expert technicians. It is to inflame their intellect, to teach them to think." He continued, “You will have learned from your studies the importance of accuracy, honesty, and consistency in your work—the need to pursue truth wherever it may lead, however uncomfortable that may sometimes be. And that has never been more important than now.”

He further urged the graduates to appreciate the importance of thinking differently and being skeptical, especially of their own ideas and opinions. “Openness, permeability, tolerance, education, and the generation of knowledge are all crucial for an effective and productive society, and are increasingly needed to guide us through our uncertain times,” he said, referencing his experiences in war-torn Ukraine, where he witnessed firsthand the destruction of schools, buildings reduced to rubble, shattered classrooms and computers mixed with children’s desks and artwork.

In closing, Sir Paul Nurse addressed the challenging task of offering advice, humorously invoking Irish author and poet Oscar Wilde’s thought about advice, “The only thing to do with good advice is pass it on. It's never of any use to oneself.”

His message was simple yet profound. He offered three key pieces of advice to the graduating students, beginning with, “Firstly, I recommend that you keep your curiosity. Curiosity is a feature of youth, but it can diminish as you get older. Resist this. Remain curious. The world is a wonderful place. It is endlessly interesting. It will enchant you all your life should you remain interested in it.”

Secondly, he called on the graduates to be enthusiasts, embrace causes, and pursue their interests. “Care about the world. Care about the people in it. When necessary, be passionate about these things. Keep a sense of urgency. Do not let grass grow under your feet,” he urged.

Thirdly, he encouraged the students to keep a sense of humour. He said, “There is a danger, while you're busy being intensely curious, enthusiastic, and passionate, that you might begin to take yourself perhaps a little too seriously. The best way to counter the risk of pomposity is to remember to laugh, especially at yourself. And one of the best antidotes to the downs in life, and I’m afraid you will have downs, is humour. ‘A day without laughter is a day wasted.’”

Injecting a touch of humour and lightness, he concluded his speech with a quote from British scientist Max Perutz: “Never follow the advice of your elders.” To the graduating class, Sir Paul Nurse said, “This is your day. Congratulations on what you have achieved. Good luck in your futures, and thank you for listening.”

51���

51��� Convocation 2025: A Celebration of Knowledge, Spirit, and New Beginnings

51���’s Convocation Ceremony 2025 was a joyful and emotional event, celebrating the achievements of graduating students in the presence of their loved ones. Families, friends, and faculty came together to honour the hard work, resilience, personal growth and dreams of the Class of 2025.
The ceremony began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, a symbol of knowledge, inspiration, and new beginnings, by Chancellor, Professor Rudrangshu Mukherjee, Vice-Chancellor, Professor Somak Raychaudhury, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Pramath Raj Sinha, and the Chief Guest, Sir Paul Nurse, Nobel Laureate.

Professor Mukherjee officially declared the convocation open, offering warm congratulations to the graduates and their families. He said, “Today is a very special day for the students who are here, their parents, relatives and friends. In the hurly burly of the university’s life, the day of the convocation is when we all come together in a proud and celebratory mood. Today is the day to rejoice as a fresh batch of our students leave the portals of 51��� and step into the wider world and its realities. As you cross the thresholds, I urge you to use all that you have learned in Ashoka, make yourselves responsible citizens who work to fashion a better future.”

A stirring musical performance by graduating students on Tu Jhoom followed. With soaring vocals and meditative rhythms, it set a powerful emotional tone for the event.

Professor Somak Raychaudhury, Vice-Chancellor, then took the podium to commend the achievements of both the students and the university over the past year. “Today is a moment of pride for all of us. We honour the achievements of our graduating students who have demonstrated not just academic excellence but also creativity, resilience, curiosity and courage. This moment is the culmination of their pretty long journey with us. It is also the beginning of what I hope will be a lifetime of learning and meaningful impact for society at large. This last year has been marked by significant milestones for the university as we have celebrated the 10th year of this really fledgling university both in scale and in substance.”

The Vice-Chancellor also spoke about the moments of struggle and pain throughout the year. “ “I shall be failing in my duties if I do not pay my tributes to honour the lives of our dear students, four of them, Sidharth G, Dhruvajyoti Sahu, Vignesh Shankar, and Sanya Chandra, who we lost during the last year. We stand by all members of the Ashoka community and their families at all times,” he affirmed.

His message to the graduating class was clear and inspiring: “I look forward to a future shaped by Ashoka’s graduates, becoming leaders, thinkers, artists, researchers, citizens, spread across all over the country and the world. My heartiest congratulations to the Class of 2025. Go forth with confidence and conviction, the world awaits your brilliance!”

Dr Pramath Raj Sinha, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, congratulated the graduating students, calling it an emotional moment for all. He then spoke about what he found most inspiring in the Chief Guest of the ceremony, Sir Paul Nurse, calling him “perhaps the best-suited and wonderful role model” for students to look up to as they graduate.

Sir Paul Nurse, Director of the Francis Crick Institute, Chancellor of the University of Bristol and the winner of the 2001 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, delivered a deeply insightful and memorable keynote address. While congratulating all the graduating students, he said, “Graduation ceremonies are one of the most important occasions in the life of a university. It takes a lot of work to do well studying for a degree. You should be proud of yourselves.”

He acknowledged the significance of the transition, saying, “It’s a time of change, a time of transition, perhaps of nostalgia, even some sadness. But you are about to embark on a new phase of your life. One that will be exciting, full of possibilities. And wherever you go, whatever you do, remember what you have learned here.

He urged graduates to keep thinking critically, value freedom of expression, and uphold the pursuit of truth. His advice was simple yet profound, “remain curious, embrace causes, care about the world and keep a sense of humour, “a day without laughter is a day wasted. He closed his address by quoting British scientist Max Perutz: “Never follow the advice of your elders.”

The awarding of degrees to the graduates, cheered on by family, friends, and faculty, was the highlight of the afternoon. Each student walked the stage filled with pride and hope, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.

This was followed by another musical performance, Jhini, a soulful composition by Indian Ocean inspired by the poetry of 15th-century mystic poet Kabir, offering a reflective moment with its rich, contemplative tones.

After the final round of degree conferrals, the Ashoka Oath was led by Chancellor Professor Rudrangshu Mukherjee, a longstanding tradition marking a collective promise to uphold the values of the university into the wider world.

The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Eshwara Venkatesam, Pro-Vice-Chancellor. He acknowledged the faculty, staff, support teams, and families who made the day possible, and addressed the graduating class with these words, “ While your time here as students has come to an end, your journey as alumni is just beginning. We encourage you to return, contribute and support the university that has helped shape your path. Share your experiences and insights by mentoring future generations of students from this university. Your guidance will be invaluable to them.”

Convocation 2025 was more than just a ceremony, it was a celebration of growth, a moment of reflection, and the beginning of a new journey for the Class of 2025.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025! The journey begins now.

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Banjaara 6.0 Turns Ashoka Campus into a Cultural Wonderland

Banjaara, 51���’s flagship cultural festival, is more than just a two-day extravaganza - it is a feeling, a movement, and a celebration of the nomadic spirit that seeks expression through art, music, and community. With each passing year, Banjaara has grown not only in size but also in soul, becoming a space where stories are shared, voices are amplified, and creativity knows no bounds. It stands as a testament to the unfiltered, raw energy of student life - a stage where passion and collaboration come together in the most magical ways.

This year, Banjaara returned as Banjaara 6.0 with a powerful and poetic theme: Rangsaaj. Rooted in the idea that colour is not merely visual but emotional and cultural, Rangsaaj celebrated the spectrum of identities, voices, and experiences that make up the world we live in. It represented the harmony of contradictions - loud and quiet, vibrant and muted, structured and free. Just as a ‘banjaara’, or wanderer, collects experiences from every land they traverse, Rangsaaj symbolised the collection of colours - each telling a story, each leaving a mark. The theme heightened the essence of the fest, reminding us that true beauty lies in embracing the many shades of who we are, individually and collectively.

In bringing this theme to life, we introduced Raahi, Banjaara’s first official mascot. Raahi is a striking bird adorned in the vivid hues of Rangsaaj, representing freedom, movement, and belonging. More than a mascot, Raahi became the heart of Banjaara - an emblem of exploration, rootedness, and the joy of journeying through different cultures and expressions. Students connected with Raahi instantly, engaging with the character in pre-fest events like the mascot reveal, flash mobs, social media challenges, and even the release of our original Banjaara anthem. Through Raahi, the theme of Rangsaaj didn’t just remain conceptual - it took flight across campus, leaving trails of joy wherever it went.

Behind this vibrant celebration stood a powerhouse team of 130+ students from different departments, clubs, and societies. United by the shared goal of creating something unforgettable, we coordinated every aspect of the fest - from outreach and programming to hospitality, logistics, and design. The results of this collective effort were staggering: over 700 external participants from 41 reputed institutions across the country - including Hansraj College, NSUT, SVC, MAIMS, Delhi Metropolitan Education, Masters’ Union, IIIT Sonipat, and more - came together on Ashoka’s campus to experience Banjaara 6.0.

This edition featured 12 inter-university competitions, the most hosted by any student-led fest at Ashoka to date. These spanned performing arts, visual arts, literary arts, and strategy & innovation and were made possible through collaborations with multiple Ashokan clubs and societies. Events like Synergy, our flagship dance competition, saw participation from over 16 teams and brought electric energy to the stage. Other highlights included art installations, slam poetry sessions, business simulations, and a fashion show - all judged by esteemed professionals and alumni.

In addition to competitions, Banjaara transformed the campus into a buzzing fairground of flavours and experiences through over 30 external stalls. From OniSaab's bold fashion statements and Baskin Robbins’ scoops of joy to Belgian Waffles, Burgrill, The Tea Planet, and independent pop-ups like Tenzen Tattoos and Kaizen Art - each stall added its own colour to the canvas of Banjaara. These partnerships not only offered delicious bites and engaging interactions but also played a vital role in making the fest financially and experientially sustainable.

The evenings were reserved for dazzling headline performances. On Day 1, popular comedian Ravi Gupta lit up the stage with laughter, drawing a crowd of over 400 attendees. Day 2 closed with a high-octane concert by indie band Naalayak, whose electrifying presence left the audience singing and swaying under the stars. Despite the scale of these events, our operations team ensured flawless execution - with strict access control, efficient exit protocols, and smooth coordination that ensured all external guests exited campus within 10 minutes of the concert conclusion.

In the end, Banjaara 6.0 wasn’t just about the numbers, the footfall, or the applause - it was about the sense of belonging it created. From the splashes of ‘gulaal’ at ‘Rangutsav’, to the music echoing through our mess stalls, to the collaborative spirit of students working late nights over chai and checklists, every part of Banjaara was born from a place of passion.

This fest was a reminder of what student initiative can look like when fuelled by vision, values, and a whole lot of heart. As Raahi soars on, carrying the colours of Rangsaaj, Banjaara 6.0 leaves behind a legacy of collaboration, courage, and celebration.

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India Unarchived – A New Podcast by 51���

Episode 5: Professor Monia Acciari on Silent Indian Movies and Film Archiving

How complicated is the process of film archiving—and how many films have we already lost, especially from India’s silent era? Join YIF students Arushi Bhargava and Mumtaz Mohiuddin as they speak with Professor Monia Acciari about the often-overlooked world of film preservation. From fragile reels to digital storytelling, they explore what it truly means to archive a film—not just the visuals, but the emotions, contexts, and cultural legacies that��come��with��it.

Episode 4: Professor Aparna Vaidik on Forgotten Histories and Indian Revolutionaries

History is not only what’s documented—it’s also the stories left untold. Join YIF students Arushi Bhargava and Mumtaz Mohiuddin as they speak with Professor Aparna Vaidik about the power of oral histories, alternative archives, and challenging traditional narratives. Discover her fascination with Indian revolutionaries, her trip to Lahore, and her research on the colonial history of the Andaman Islands. Tune in for an engaging conversation on forgotten histories and the discipline of history.

Episode 3: Professor Mahesh Rangarajan on Archiving India’s Environmental History

How does the history of our environment shape our present? YIF students Arushi Bhargava and Mumtaz Mohiuddin sit down with Professor Mahesh Rangarajan to explore the evolving field of environmental history. From colonial conservation policies to the cultural and geopolitical significance of lions and elephants, he unpacks how archives help preserve lost ecological narratives. Join them as they delve into history, nature, and the stories that continue to shape our planet.

Episode 2: Archivist Deepa Bhatnagar on Building Archives of Contemporary India

In this episode of India Unarchived, YIF students Arushi Bhargava and Mumtaz Mohiuddin explore the making of 51���'s Archives of Contemporary India with its Founder-Director, Deepa Bhatnagar. From securing the first collections to the challenges, innovations, and milestones of Ashoka’s archives, she offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the process of curating modern India’s voices.

Episode 1: Professor Rudrangshu Mukherjee on 1857, Gandhi & Archiving Indian History

In the first episode of India Unarchived, YIF students sit down with Professor Rudrangshu Mukherjee and journey into the fascinating world of archives, exploring their impact on India’s historical narrative. From the significance of archiving to pivotal moments like the 1857 rebellion, he offers deep insights into history’s influence on the present. He also shares the vision behind establishing the Archives of Contemporary India at Ashoka and reveals why he would love to converse with historical figures like Gandhi and Tagore.

51��� is delighted to launch India Unarchived, an original podcast series that explores the power of archives in remembering history. Through conversations with historians, archivists, and scholars, the podcast uncovers untold stories and highlights the significance of historical preservation. Created in collaboration with the Archives of Contemporary India and Young India Fellows (Class of 2025), Season 1 delves into history through the lenses of cinema, environment, public memory, and pivotal events.

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51��� Launches Bhashavaad: India’s First Open-Access Database of Translations

The at 51���, in collaboration with the New India Foundation, launches Bhashavaad, India’s first non-profit, open-access, and crowd-sourced database of Indian translations. Opening with 14,000+ entries, 6,500+ authors, and 7,000+ translators, the aim of the database is to re-energise India’s translation ecosystem with an inventory of demand and supply that is long overdue and extremely valuable for our literary-cultural identity and infrastructure. The database is now live at .

As with any living archive, Bhashavaad will improve with time and will be updated with more data and information to support its purpose. It strives to answer questions like what is and what is not being translated, who is publishing translations, who is translating, which languages are most active, what are the most translated language pairs, and many more. With more data being added to the existing searchable database, it will help us understand our multilingual landscape better and also the dynamics between languages, the communities that use them, and the regions they belong to.

Rita Kothari, Co-director of the Ashoka Centre for Translation and Professor of English at 51���, is credited with extensively translating between Gujarati, Sindhi, English, and Hindi and also for theorising translation in the Indian context. On the launch of this database, Rita Kothari said, “Bhashavaad, as both an idea and archive, is an attempt to listen to what’s left over, as opposed to what’s lost, in translation. As such, ‘vaad’ is also to speak, stemming from ‘vaach’ in Sanskrit. Bhashavaad, therefore, shares not a concern about ‘isms’ but instead about the active ‘ings’—thinking, reading, writing, translating, and publishing—taking place in the wider Indian literary sphere. This interactive database is as much about making Indian languages speak to each other as it is about reading and listening to them.”

Arunava Sinha, Co-director of the Ashoka Centre for Translation and Professor of Creative Writing at 51���, with over 90 published translations between Bengali and English, said “the Bhashavaad database can be used to better understand the multilingual landscape of India. Powered by a diverse team of research fellows, academics, student interns, and project leads from different states and towns across India—working on translations from and into languages ranging from Dogri to Dakhni and Maithili to Mundari—it will improve as public users interact with it. This database is a labour of love of all those who are involved in the business of translation, directly or otherwise, many of whom have voluntarily come forward to support us in this endeavour with their suggestions and resources.”

In its current shape, Bhashavaad has noted a massive leap between the first 50 years of the 20th century, with 125 translations, and the first 20 years of the 21st century, with 2673 translations. While the database is still evolving toward its goal of mapping the full landscape of Indian translations, this remarkable growth marks a strong and credible beginning. Of the translations listed so far, the top ten translated languages are Bengali (1749), Hindi (1155), and Marathi (887), followed by Tamil, Malayalam, Urdu, Telugu, Kannada, Sanskrit, and Odia. The top five languages that receive translations outside English are Hindi, Gujarati, Kannada, Bengali, and Telugu. A happy discovery of browsing is the long tail of translations from Manipuri, Maithili, Kodava, Rajbangshi, Mizo, Kokborok, and Bongcher. The top languages for translation from Sanskrit are English, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, and Punjabi.

The top publisher of translations is National Book Trust with 2260, closely followed by Sahitya Akademi with 2118. The most prolific translation publishers are Penguin in English, Vani Prakashan in Hindi, Gurjar Grantharatna in Gujarati, DC Books in Malayalam, and Dey’s Publishing in Bengali. The top translated authors include Rabindranath Tagore, Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay, Premchand, Amrita Pritam, William Shakespeare, Saadat Hasan Manto, Mahasweta Devi, Jules Verne, and Satyajit Ray. The database throws up delightful translation heroes like Chandrakant Pokale (127 translations from Marathi to Kannada), Ramanlal Soni (83 translations from Bengali and 7 from English to Gujarati), Sudhindranath Raha (65 translations from English and several European languages to Bengali) and Jai Ratan (36 translations from Hindi, Urdu, and Punjabi to English).

Somak Raychaudhury, Vice-Chancellor, 51��� said, “The launch of Bhashavaad marks an important step toward preserving and celebrating India’s rich multilingual heritage. 51��� believes in the power of translation to bridge cultures, deepen understanding, and make literary treasures accessible across languages. We believe this open-access database will serve as an invaluable resource for scholars, researchers, readers, and translators, creating a more connected and inclusive literary ecosystem.”

The Bhashavaad database will continue to be a growing repository of translations where users, including authors-translators-publishers themselves, can add new entries and correct existing ones. Users will soon have interfaces to add or modify information on their books. As it continues to collect data from catalogues, websites, and library lists, Bhashavaad hopes to lead by building further collaborations with repositories of existing records to provide exhaustive documentation in the form of a living archive of India, and Indian literature, in translation.

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Annual Economics Conference 2024: A Hub of Global Insights and Vibrant Discussions

The Economics department at 51��� hosted another successful annual conference this year on December 17-18. Twelve notable speakers, from universities in India, the US, the UK, UAE, Europe, and Australia, and from the Federal Reserve Bank and Board, presented their ongoing work in the fields of Macroeconomics, Microeconomic theory, Development and Behavioral Economics, and interacted with our students and faculty members. 

Many students from campuses around NCR and some visiting home from their PhDs and Post-Docs abroad came to listen to these talks and added to the vibrant discussions and inspired conversations. Ashoka Economics Ph.D. students and UG students associated with the Ashoka Economics Society volunteered to help organise the event. The Economics administration, along with Ashoka's dining, transportation, security, and accommodations teams, and Blue Tokai, collaborated seamlessly to provide food, housing, and logistical support.

We look forward to hosting many more such enriching events in the years to come.

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Dirac Labs and 51��� Jointly Awarded ₹1 Crore Grant from the Indo-U.S. Science and Technology Forum (IUSSTF)

Dirac Labs and 51��� have jointly secured a ₹1 crore grant from the Indo-U.S. Science and Technology Forum (IUSSTF) for advancements in quantum technologies. Aishwarya Das (UG '21), co-founder of Dirac Labs, leads the startup’s mission to develop quantum sensors that enable precise navigation without relying on GPS.

"I graduated from 51��� in 2021 with a major in Physics, where I worked closely with Prof. Debayan Gupta, leading to four research publications. One of our notable projects was a radar-based indoor positioning system that used deep learning and low-cost sensors for real-time object and human detection, published in the IEEE Radar and Sensors & Transducers Journal. We also explored using neural networks to solve the three-body problem analytically up to a certain number of steps. This resulted in a publication at NeurIPS 2020, the same conference where GPT-3 was introduced.

While at Ashoka, I also interned with the Fluid Interfaces Group at the MIT Media Lab, focusing on machine learning applications for personal health. After my graduation, I joined Graviky Labs (an MIT Media Lab spinoff) as Head of Strategy and Partnerships, where we transformed urban air pollution into sustainable materials. In early 2023, I co-founded Dirac Labs, a startup focused on developing an advanced navigation system that operates without GPS by utilising quantum sensors. We launched with NASA I-Corps grant support and secured a small investment from GradCapital.

In August 2023, Dirac Labs partnered with 51���, collaborating with Prof. Debayan’s group to apply gravity and magnetic data for navigation and mineral exploration. This collaboration resulted in a ₹1 crore grant from the Indo-U.S. Science and Technology Forum (IUSSTF) in September 2024, with Ashoka’s team working on machine learning algorithms and Dirac Labs advancing quantum sensor technology."

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The Power of Why: Dr Manu Prakash on Rekindling Curiosity in Science

Curiosity is the spark that leads the way to groundbreaking discoveries and life-changing innovations. Fully aware of its importance, Dr Manu Prakash delivered an engaging talk on ‘The Power of Why? Curiosity at Work’, organised by Ashoka Global Research Alliances (AGRA) on November 25, 2024, at the 51��� campus. He highlighted the importance of asking “why” and the transformative role curiosity plays in science and innovation.

Dr Prakash reminded the audience of their childhood when curiosity gave rise to endless questions in our minds about the world around us—questions that, unfortunately, many stop asking as they grow older. He emphasised the value of rekindling that spark of curiosity, especially in scientific exploration.

The talk took the audience on an explorative journey, from the biology of mysterious deep-sea creatures to the complex microbial communities that influence global climate systems. Dr Prakash also shared how a simple “why” drove him to innovate tools like foldscope, malaria diagnostic devices and systems for tracking mosquito populations. By sharing these examples he highlighted how curiosity promotes problem-solving and societal betterment.

To nurture this innate curiosity, Dr Manu Prakash also exchanged some practical insights with the audience on how to approach scientific phenomena with fresh perspectives and an open mind. He left attendees inspired to explore the unknown and utilise their curiosity to unravel life’s mysteries.

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Converging Visions: A Collaborative Journey

Education is a profound catalyst for transformation, yet access to quality education remains uneven. In today's era of vast information, teaching students to think critically and solve problems innovatively is more crucial than ever. Both public and private sectors must commit to this cause, investing in transformative educational approaches. Equally important is timing—guiding students and igniting their passions at pivotal moments in their educational journeys.

Introducing the Scienspur and Lodha Genius Programme (LGP): two pioneering platforms committed to empowering students through education and mentorship. While both share a commitment to quality education and career guidance, they address different stages of student development. LGP focuses on high school students (grades 9-12), whereas Scienspur engages with undergraduates and master's students in Life Sciences. Their collaboration is not just promising; it's essential for nurturing talent and fostering careers driven by passion.

Scienspur: Cultivating Critical Thinkers
Scienspur is committed to delivering high-quality education to students from under-resourced colleges in South Asia. Comprising around 50 postdoctoral fellows and biotech professionals from prestigious global institutions, Scienspur's mentors infuse "experimental bench to classroom" methodologies that foster critical thinking and problem-solving. By intertwining narratives of seminal scientific discoveries with the importance of technological innovation, Scienspur enhances students' understanding of how science evolves to address contemporary challenges, thereby improving quality of life and healthcare.

Lodha Genius Programme: Inspiring Tomorrow’s Leaders
The Lodha Genius Programme (LGP) is a pioneering initiative empowering high school students with the guidance and opportunities needed to aspire toward higher education in prestigious institutions worldwide. LGP fosters a passion for learning and excellence, preparing its fellows for the rigours of higher education and research through personalised support, mentorship, and structured learning opportunities. By equipping young learners with essential tools, LGP is poised to shape India’s future by nurturing its brightest minds and fostering an environment where talent can flourish.

A Harmonious Union: Amplifying Impact

The stories of Scienspur participants are as diverse as they are inspiring, portraying individuals who rise from modest beginnings to leading global Universities. These narratives resonate deeply with LGP students. Scienspur’s one-to-one mentorship aids students in identifying and pursuing their passions. A long-term partnership between Scienspur and LGP will provide students with invaluable guidance in decision-making and a commitment to pursuing career goals. Scienspur further excels by connecting students with leading scientists tackling current issues through cutting-edge technology. By facilitating scientific seminars and interactive town halls, Scienspur sparks curiosity and awareness among students. Additionally, the programme assists students in recognising and preparing for opportunities—a critical aspect of student development.

Moreover, Scienspur aims to mentor students through rigorous research training, enabling them to conduct simple yet thoughtful experiments. Over 3-4 weeks, students gain practical training in analytical methods, critical thinking, and data interpretation—universally vital skills regardless of their career path.

Bright Horizons: The Future of Collaboration
The collaboration between LGP and Scienspur promises a bright and impactful future. Together, they can pioneer a developmental model nurturing talent from high school through advanced research. By integrating their resources and leveraging their strengths, LGP and Scienspur can create a robust support system encompassing mentorship, skill-building, hands-on research, and career guidance. Over the next 6-9 months, they plan to initiate a cycle of mentorship, scientific seminars, career guidance sessions, and a research-based course, incorporating student feedback before advancing. The alignment of LGP's and Scienspur's visions exemplifies how collaborative efforts can craft sustainable educational models. By prioritising critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and lifelong learning, this partnership aspires to empower students not only to excel academically but also to evolve into community leaders driving societal change.

(Written by Rajesh Gunage, Nagaraju Dhanyasi, Jacob Vinay Vikas Konakondla, Mentors, Scienspur)

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From Curiosity to Career: How LGP Cultivates a Lifelong Passion for STEM

The Lodha Genius Programme’s (LGP) On-Campus engagement at 51��� provided students with a unique platform to explore interdisciplinary courses spanning STEM and beyond. It offered a myriad of avenues for students, enabling them to get hands-on learning through exciting science workshops and projects, interactive and engaging activities to help them learn mathematics, opportunities to tackle real-world challenges by designing innovative, sustainable, and scalable solutions and learning from scientists and industry leaders through ‘Great Ideas Seminar’. The diverse cohort, representing 20 states across India, fostered a vibrant environment for peer learning and cultural exchange, enriching the entire experience.

A key outcome of the On-Campus experience was the students’ budding interest in STEM and a keen interest in exploring further—finding solutions for contemporary societal problems, exploring internship opportunities, and pursuing undergraduate programmes and at large a career in Sciences. To address this need of students and ensure continued engagement to hone their knowledge, and skills, and expand their interests, LGP launched Continued Learning, focusing on three key aspects- Learning and Development, Mentorship, and Access to Opportunities.

Learning and Development - Fostering Academic Excellence Through Courses in STEM and Beyond

The Learning and Development module offers a wide array of courses conducted in both live and self-paced formats, blending theory with hands-on experiences. Students explore diverse topics, such as using physics to understand astrophysical objects and learning about various other observing instruments in India in the Physics of Astrophysics course, or designing practical solutions such as smart home automation and smart irrigation systems in the Internet of Things course, using microcontrollers, sensors, and actuators. The Entrepreneurship and Design Thinking course empowers students to create ‘micro-startups’ by identifying societal problems, brainstorming unique solutions, developing prototypes, and testing their ideas mirroring a startup environment. Similarly, the Education, Justice, and Literacy course uses an interdisciplinary lens to encourage students to conceptualise socially just education initiatives and reflect on social and political actions.

Courses such as Computational Biology at the Neuron Membrane focus on neurobiology through computational modelling and creative video projects, while the Building a Computational Biology Curriculum course enables students to design educational modules integrating biology and computational skills. In the Chip Design for High School course, students gain insights into electronics and logical circuit creation, enhancing their problem-solving skills. The Mathematics course equips students with advanced problem-solving abilities in calculus, algebra, and geometry, while the Financial Independence course imparts essential personal finance and investment knowledge, equipping students with tools for long-term financial security.

Each course is structured to achieve an optimal student-to-instructor ratio, allowing students to receive personalised attention and timely feedback on their performance during classroom and outside through doubt-clearing sessions and office hours. Additionally, interventions such as discussion sessions and course-specific groups encourage peer learning and community building. By offering such an extensive range of innovative courses, the module aims to nurture creativity, critical thinking, and practical problem-solving skills, effectively preparing students for diverse academic and career pathways.

Mentorship - Providing a Holistic Support Through Personalised Guidance
While the academic and extracurricular experiences offered at LGP provide exposure to diverse academic and career pathways, they are further enhanced by personalised mentorship that nurtures each student’s growth. This support is particularly crucial for two reasons- Firstly, the students belong to grades 9 to 12 and they are in need of guidance and mentorship to navigate their academic interests, make informed college and career choices, and maintain overall well-being. Secondly, many LGP participants come from socially and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. These students may lack access to the social, cultural, and economic capital needed to confidently pursue their aspirations, making mentorship a vital aspect of their journey.

To address these needs, LGP offers mentorship through two key avenues. The first is mentorship by Scienspur, a network of postdoctoral fellows who provide need-based guidance to students on STEM-related projects, college admissions, career guidance, and other academic field-related support by connecting them to relevant specialised field experts. They also provide exposure to students by conducting Career Pathway Seminars involving scientists and industry leaders from diverse fields.

The second avenue is mentorship provided by Counselors, which is focused on providing socio-emotional support alongside academic and career guidance. This approach ensures that students not only gain clarity about their future options but also build confidence and resilience to navigate challenges effectively. The primary goal of providing mentorship support is to empower students to make informed decisions, realise their potential, and foster a sense of belonging as they embark on their educational and career journeys.

Access to Opportunities - Providing Exposure to Students to Further their Goals and Aspirations
As a part of LGP’s commitment to nurturing talent and providing meaningful growth opportunities, the students who demonstrate strong potential are offered access to a wide range of initiatives that are designed specifically to enhance their academic and career prospects.

One key aspect is internships with esteemed organisations and universities, where students gain exposure and invaluable hands-on experience in real-world settings. As part of this initiative, five LGP students will soon participate in a 9-week Science Internship Programme at the University of California, Santa Cruz, a research programme designed for high school students in STEAM fields. Additionally, LGP organises immersive field visits to research institutions, observatories, and short-term projects, allowing students to engage directly with scientific inquiry and industry practices. High-performing students from the Physics of Astrophysics course will have the opportunity to visit the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope, managed by the National Centre for Radio Astrophysics in Pune.

Students are also encouraged to participate in prestigious national and international competitions and conferences, which provide a platform to showcase their knowledge and skills while representing both India and LGP. Notably, five students from the programme are part of a 100-student cohort representing India at the Design for Change Conference in Dubai, where they will apply design thinking to develop innovative solutions for societal challenges. Furthermore, select students will represent India at The European Tournament of Enthusiastic Apprentice Mathematicians (ETEAM) to be held in France.

Lastly, one of the unique offerings of LGP is the 'Shadow the Scientist' programme, which connects students to live scientific experiments through remote observing sessions, providing them with an extraordinary opportunity to witness professional research in action. Through these thoughtfully curated experiences, LGP offers students practical exposure, expert mentorship, and a global perspective, paving the way for future success in diverse academic and professional fields.

(Written by Prasenjeet Patil, Program Manager, Lodha Genius Programme)

51���

Ashoka Professor Seema Alavi Wins the Monsoon Book Prize in Political Economy

Dr Seema Alavi, Professor of History, 51��� has been awarded the prestigious Monsoon Book Prize in Political Economy. Dr Alavi received this honour as a recognition for her extraordinary work in the book Muslim Cosmopolitanism in the Age of Empire, which explores the interconnected histories of the Indian Ocean region, shedding light on the cultural, political, and economic dynamics that shaped its legacy.

The book stood out for its originality, accessibility, and profound exploration of Muslim cosmopolitanism within the imperial context. The committee commended Dr Alavi’s work for enriching Indian Ocean studies and promoting a nuanced understanding of the region's living heritage.

“I  am both thrilled and humbled to receive the prestigious Monsoon Award for my book that showcases the interconnected history of the Indian Ocean world with the spotlight on Indian Muslim men of learning who straddled its vast canvas. I am happy that the book's focus on Delhi, Istanbul, Mecca and Cairo as global hotspots around which world history should be written has been recognised. As has been its message to write global history in non-Eurocentric ways.” - Dr Seema Alavi. 

The Monsoon Book Prizes is hosted by Georgia State University and sponsored by the German University of Technology in Oman (GUtech). Along with the prestigious title, the award includes a $4,000 cash prize and an invitation to present her research at the awards ceremony in Atlanta, Georgia, in April 2025.

The book had earlier won an Honourable Mention in the 2016 Albert Hourani Award by the Middle East Studies Association, USA, for bringing South Asian Studies into conversation with the history of the Middle East. 

Dr Alavi’s accomplishment inspires young scholars to explore uncharted territories in historical research and contribute to building a more interconnected world.

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Transforming Education with LGP’s Continued Learning Programme

The Lodha Genius Programme (LGP) is a comprehensive and innovative educational initiative that goes far beyond a typical summer programme. Now in its third year, this exciting and impactful partnership between the Lodha Foundation and 51��� is unique in India and the world. In addition to the summer at Ashoka, which all of us are familiar with, it offers a year-round, immersive learning experience designed to nurture and develop the talents of high-achieving students through continuous engagement and mentorship. The LGP is much more than a summer programme; it is a continuing, enjoyable learning experience.

At the heart of the LGP is its Continued Learning initiative, which provides a robust Learning and Development component to foster academic excellence and holistic growth. This programme combines live classes with self-paced courses conducted through various platforms, such as Google Classroom and Zoom, to promote knowledge acquisition, skill development, peer learning, and community building.

The LGP 2024 Continued Learning curriculum is diverse and cutting-edge, offering courses spanning various disciplines. Students can delve into Physics, Astrophysics, the Internet of Things (IoT), Chip Design for High Schoolers, cutting-edge biotech, Entrepreneurship and Design Thinking, and Computational Biology. These courses are not just theoretical but are designed to provide practical, hands-on experience, allowing students to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.

For instance, the Physics of Astrophysics course teaches students about celestial objects and phenomena, introduces them to data analysis techniques, and even culminates in a visit to the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope in Narayangaon, near Pune. Such visits to see what these telescopes can do are career-shaping and inspiring, no matter what career you choose. Combining theoretical knowledge with practical exposure is a hallmark of the LGP.

The Computational Biology course, which focuses on the neuron membrane, offers students a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of biology and computer science. This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of computational neuroscience and teaches them how to model and simulate neuronal activity. Students learn to use computational tools to analyse complex biological systems, particularly the intricate workings of the nerve cells and brain circuits. Through hands-on projects and simulations, they gain insights into how neurons process and transmit information, a crucial aspect of understanding brain function.

Similarly, the Internet of Things course takes students from understanding basic electronics to designing and implementing IoT systems that address real-world problems. By the end of the course, students can create solutions for smart home automation, environmental monitoring, or assistive technology.

The programme's focus on entrepreneurship and design thinking is particularly noteworthy. It equips students with the skills to identify problems, develop empathy, create innovative solutions, and launch micro-startups. This nurtures their entrepreneurial spirit and prepares them to contribute meaningfully to society and the economy.

What sets the LGP apart is its commitment to personalised learning. The programme recognises that each student has unique talents and interests. Therefore, it offers a variety of courses and allows students to choose based on their preferences. This tailored approach ensures that students are engaged in subjects they are passionate about, leading to more effective learning and skill development.

The LGP is not just about academic learning. It also emphasises the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. For example, the Chip Design for High Schoolers course teaches students about circuit design and requires them to produce comprehensive lab reports and present their final projects, honing their technical documentation and presentation skills.

The programme's structure, which includes a mix of self-paced and live sessions, allows for flexibility while ensuring regular interaction with instructors and peers. This ongoing engagement helps build a community of learners, foster collaboration, and provide continuous mentorship.

By offering a comprehensive and ongoing educational experience, the LGP prepares students for academic success and future careers in rapidly evolving fields. It creates a pipeline of talented individuals well-equipped to tackle complex challenges and drive innovation in various sectors.

The Lodha Genius Programme's Continued Learning initiative represents a forward-thinking approach to education. By providing year-round, in-depth learning experiences across various cutting-edge fields, it nurtures the next generation of scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovators. This benefits the individual students and significantly contributes to societal progress and economic growth.

The LGP team at Ashoka and the Lodha Foundation has been dedicated, driven, and relentlessly enthusiastic. This, along with the Lodha Foundation's unstinting, generous, and full support, makes this a fully funded programme that impacts students across the country and from every background.

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Innovating Student Support at 51���

The Orientation Dashboard

As the Class of 2028 stepped onto the vibrant campus of 51���, the Orientation Dashboard emerged as a groundbreaking tool, smoothening their transition into university life. Developed by the Office of Student Affairs, this innovative platform played a crucial role during Orientation Week, guiding new students through their first days with ease and efficiency.

The dashboard functioned as a centralised hub, providing essential links and resources that facilitated a seamless introduction to the university. It provided the incoming students with easy access to vital information, including the Online Academic Orientation, which helped them familiarise themselves with academic expectations and available resources.

The dashboard also featured an Orientation Schedule, keeping students informed about various workshops, activities, and networking opportunities taking place throughout the week. This structured schedule proved particularly beneficial, helping students plan their days and maximise their time on campus. Additionally, a handy To-Do List ensured that students stayed organised, keeping track of important tasks, such as updating their profiles and submitting necessary documents.

Key Features of the Dashboard:

Streamlined Preparation for Move-in Days: The dashboard provided clear move-in information to ease the check-in process during the move-in days on August 17th and 18th, 2024. Specific hours were designated for arrivals to reduce congestion and streamline the experience. A user-friendly Campus Map was also made available to help new students navigate their surroundings and locate residential blocks and essential facilities.

Curated Resources: The dashboard highlighted the Academic Bridge Programme, offering curated workshops and resources to help students transition smoothly into university-level studies.

Facilitating Community and Connection: The dashboard played a vital role in fostering a sense of community among new students. It outlined critical steps for setting up student profiles, including Profile Updates, document uploads, and completing medical information forms.

Dedicated Support for Diverse Needs: Recognising the diverse needs of its student body, 51���’s Office of Learning Support was prominently featured on the dashboard. This Office provided academic accommodations and assistive technology to ensure all students had equal access to university activities.

Financial Planning and Packing Essentials: The dashboard also provided essential resources for financial planning such as tips on opening an Indian bank account and budgeting for University life to help students navigate their financial responsibilities with confidence. Furthermore, the Essential First-Year College Packing Checklist guided students on what to bring, ensuring they are well-prepared for their time at Ashoka.

The Orientation Dashboard was more than just a resource; it embodied innovation in student support at 51���. By centralising vital information and resources, the dashboard significantly enhanced the orientation experience for new students. As the Class of 2028 began their journey, they could rely on this comprehensive tool to help them navigate the exciting challenges ahead. Welcome to 51���, where support and community thrived!

Parents Mobile App

51��� proudly introduced the Parents Mobile App, designed to strengthen the partnership between the university and the families of our students. This comprehensive platform facilitates communication and provides essential resources for parents.

Key Features of the Parents Mobile App:
Streamlined Communication: The app offers real-time updates on students' academic progress, attendance, and important campus announcements, helping parents stay informed about their child's journey.

Access to Resources: Parents can easily access vital information, such as academic calendars, exam schedules, and university policies, ensuring they are well-informed about university procedures and expectations.

Engagement Opportunities: The app highlights opportunities for parental involvement, including parent-teacher meetings and workshops, fostering community and support among families.

Feedback and Support: Parents can share feedback through the app, creating a two-way communication channel that contributes to the continuous improvement of programs and services.

Security and Privacy: With robust security measures in place, the app ensures that sensitive information is protected, allowing parents to access their child's data securely.

Looking Ahead
The Parents Mobile App is a vital resource for enhancing the connection between 51��� and our students' families, empowering students to thrive. We encourage all parents to download the app, explore its features and provide feedback as we continue to enhance this important initiative.

Reno Platform

At 51���, student-driven events form a crucial part of campus life, fostering community engagement, creativity, and leadership. In line with its commitment to enhancing the student experience, the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) has launched a platform to transform how students organise and manage events.

The Reno platform is designed to simplify every step of event planning—from proposal to member onboarding—ensuring a smooth and efficient process for both students and the administration. Previously, students had to navigate multiple steps, including manual submissions, email chains, and long approval wait times. The new system brings all these elements together under one virtual roof, offering a centralised hub for seamless event management.

Key features of the platform include:
Easy Event Proposal Submissions: Students can now submit detailed event proposals, including prefered dates, required resources, and expected attendees, through a user-friendly interface. The platform ensures that all necessary information is captured from the outset, reducing the back-and-forth between the organisers and the Office of Student Affairs.

Real-Time Approval Tracking: One of the standout features is real-time approval updates. The platform provides live tracking of the approval process, offering transparency and reducing delays.

Integrated Venue Booking and Logistics Management: The platform is linked to campus venue calendars, making it easier to book spaces and avoid double bookings.

This innovation marks a significant shift in how the university supports student-led activities. By consolidating and digitising event management, OSA aims to empower students with greater autonomy while ensuring that events remain well-organised and compliant with university policies.

The new platform reflects OSA’s dedication to enhancing the overall student experience and setting new standards in event management on campus.

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Navigating Tomorrow: Strategic Growth on the Cards for Office of Student Affairs

As 51��� grows, the Office of Student Affairs remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing a holistic student experience. New initiatives such as wellness campaigns, student mentoring, and regular interactions ensure students can navigate university life confidently. Together, the Office of Student Affairs enriches the university’s mission, empowering students to thrive culturally, socially, and personally in their journey to become leaders of tomorrow.

What’s Next?
In the upcoming semester, the Residence Life Office has exciting plans. Resident Assistants have planned Secret Santa gift exchanges, wellness campaigns, and “Coffee & More” sessions, where students can have informal conversations with faculty and staff.

The Sports Office is excited to present a thrilling semester packed with tournaments, leagues, and events. Let’s dive into the lineup of marquee events in the upcoming semester!

Ashoka’s annual sports festival, Agneepath will return in February 2025, reinforcing Ashoka’s spirit of togetherness, resilience, and respect for every athlete’s journey.

The Ashoka Basketball Association (ABA) is Ashoka’s premier intra-college basketball event, in its seventh edition will have approximately 16 teams through a lively auction process, ensuring diversity, fun, and fair play. Each game promises exhilarating action, with hundreds of spectators cheering on from the sidelines. ABA is more than a tournament; it’s a celebration of basketball, inclusivity, and community spirit that has become a treasured tradition at Ashoka.

For fans of fast-paced individual competition, the Racquet Sports League brings together Ashoka’s best in tennis, badminton, squash, and table tennis.

The Ashoka Premier League (APL) is the ultimate football showdown, bringing the excitement of the beautiful game to the Ashoka campus. From skilful passes to last-minute goals, the APL is packed with high-octane moments that keep both players and spectators on the edge of their seats.

Cricket lovers can look forward to the Ashoka Cricket League (ACL), where the campus transforms into a mini stadium, resonating with the cheers of fans and the thrill of sixes, boundaries, and skilful bowling.

Alongside these flagship events, the Sports Office is committed to creating a vibrant, inclusive sports culture with additional initiatives that promise to make this semester unforgettable. Skill Clinics and Training Camps, Sportsmanship and Wellness Workshops & Intramural Events are some of them.

The Sports Office invites you to participate in Ashoka’s dynamic sports scene. Get ready to embrace the thrill of sport, teamwork, and Ashoka’s vibrant community spirit!

The Student Life Office is thrilled to announce a lineup of inspiring initiatives, designed to enrich and celebrate student life at Ashoka in bold new ways!
Start the semester with Heritage Week, a vivid celebration of cultural diversity that brings together unique traditions, arts, and cuisines of India and beyond. This event allows students to experience a colourful tapestry of global cultures represented within our community, fostering meaningful connections and cultural appreciation.

Take a break from campus life with Safarnama, a refreshing outing designed to foster new friendships and broaden perspectives through shared travel experiences. It’s an opportunity to recharge and return with new memories and deeper bonds.

Get ready for an exciting Upcoming Series of speaker sessions that will bring some of the most insightful voices to Ashoka. Stay tuned as the series unfolds with remarkable conversations that promise valuable takeaways for everyone.

The Student Excellence Awards will be back, bigger and better than ever! This year’s awards will feature additional categories, making it even more inclusive and reflective of the diverse accomplishments within our community. Join us to cheer on Ashoka’s trailblazers and see the impact they’re making.

In addition to these flagship events, the Student Life Office has a wide range of initiatives and traditions to make this semester unforgettable with Baithak, Banjaara, Ashoka Literature Festival & Inter-College Case Competition, to name a few.

With these exciting events and initiatives, get ready for a journey of meaningful experiences, lasting memories, and a true celebration of Ashoka’s vibrant community!

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Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders: Ashoka’s Resident Assistant Programme

The Resident Assistant (RA) Program is not just about managing student dorms—it’s about shaping leaders, building community, and fostering an inclusive campus culture. This student-led initiative empowers undergraduate students to take on significant leadership roles, all while creating a supportive environment for their peers.

Student Leadership in Action
The RA Program offers third- and fourth-year students the unique opportunity to live alongside their peers, but with a twist—they’re the go-to support system for their entire floor. With each RA responsible for a group of 40-70 residents, they become the first point of contact for everything from academic stress to personal struggles. But their job isn’t just about handling crises. RAs are community builders, event planners, and mentors, ensuring that their floor isn’t just a place to sleep, but a space for personal growth, connection, and fun.

This year’s cohort includes 79 students from diverse backgrounds, representing 12 countries and various regions of India. The program focuses on values like wellness, diversity, conflict resolution, and active citizenship, ensuring that every RA’s impact is felt beyond the walls of their residence hall.

What RAs Do: More Than Just Roommates
Each RA wears many hats. They create and run over 150 events each semester, from wellness workshops to gender sensitisation programs and even fun activities like karaoke nights and game cook-offs. These events are designed not only to engage students but to encourage collaboration and provide spaces for students to unwind and connect.

But the real magic happens during Candid Coffee Conversations—an informal, one-on-one setting where RAs and students sit down over a cup of coffee to talk about life at Ashoka, from the academic grind to navigating university systems. It’s a chance for RAs to offer advice, answer questions, and make every student feel like they belong.

Training for Leadership
RAs aren’t thrown into their roles without preparation. Before they even begin, RAs undergo a week-long training designed to equip them with essential skills like event planning, crisis management, and professionalism. The training includes everything from role-playing scenarios to workshops on how to deal with difficult conversations. RAs leave this training not only ready to support their peers but also with leadership skills they can take beyond campus.

Building a Stronger Community
The RA Program thrives on creating a sense of belonging. From floor-level meetings where RAs engage with residents about the floor’s dynamics, to informal social hours, where students relax and bond with their peers, every RA contributes to building a cohesive, welcoming community.

One standout event is The Great Ashokan Weekend, where students, faculty, and staff come together for a series of themed workshops and fun activities across campus. This year’s highlights included a movie marathon, tote bag painting workshops, and cookie decorating—all aimed at strengthening ties between the diverse groups on campus. RAs are also responsible for creating sustainable paper décor, which gets reused in future events—showcasing their commitment to both creativity and sustainability.

A Stepping Stone for Future Success
Serving as an RA isn’t just about helping others—it’s about self-growth too. Through the program, students develop crucial soft skills like conflict resolution, teamwork, and public speaking, which help them navigate their university experience and future careers. Many RAs go on to participate in Ashoka’s Early Leadership Programme (ELP), which places them in permanent roles across the university. All nine participants in the program’s first two years were former RAs, showing how this experience shapes their present and their future as well.

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Office of Sports & Exercise: Building Athletes, Leaders, and Community at 51���

The Office of Sports & Exercise represents a thriving hub of energy and athleticism, promoting physical well-being and resilience. From recreational activities to competitive tournaments, the Office nurtures both teamwork and individual excellence.

At the heart of the Office of Sports & Exercise lies a tremendous vision: to cultivate a campus atmosphere that celebrates resilience, teamwork, and personal growth. Committed to providing enriching sports experiences, the Office promotes both physical vitality and mental well-being. Here, competition flourishes alongside sportsmanship, nurturing an environment where every student can shine.

Key Milestones: Celebrating Our Triumphs
Since 2016, the transformation of the Office of Sports & Exercise has been extraordinary. What began as a humble collection of teams has flourished into a magnificent array of competitive and recreational offerings.

The highlight of this endeavour is Agneepath, the university’s illustrious inter-university sports festival. Launched in 2017, the tournament stands as a testament to Ashoka’s commitment to sports, having grown significantly from 60 teams representing 18 universities to an impressive 98 teams from 27 universities by the 2022-23 season, showcasing Ashoka’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity and athletic excellence.

Over the past few years, 51���'s sports teams have made remarkable strides in external tournaments. The teams have consistently performed well at prestigious platforms like the IITs’ sports fests, securing podium finishes in frisbee, basketball, and football. In the All India University (AIU) games, our athletes showcased exceptional skills, achieving recognition in events such as shooting and tennis. Furthermore, our players have participated at the national level and also reached international levels, representing the nation in global tournaments, underlining Ashoka's commitment to nurturing high-caliber athletes. These milestones reflect a robust sports culture and commitment to excellence in both team and individual sports achievements.

Expanding Horizons: Embracing Inclusivity and Diversity
Inclusivity is integral to the Office of Sports and Exercise’s mission. Through platforms like the Special Olympics Bharat Ashoka Chapter (SOBAC), we ensure all students can partake in enriching sports experiences. SOBAC champions adaptive sports, empowering students with disabilities to thrive within our vibrant community.

Other clubs including the Iron Eagles, Sports Enthusiasts Club (SEC) and Cycling Club, cater to diverse interests of students, ensuring every Ashokan finds a supportive environment to pursue their athletic passions. SEC provides a welcoming space for recreational sports, inviting participants of all skill levels to join leagues and workshops, thus breaking down barriers to athletic participation.

A Future Full of Opportunities in Sports
As our sports culture flourishes, the Office of Sports & Exercise is devoted to enhancing the student athletic experience. Plans are underway to upgrade facilities, introduce innovative training programs, and host captivating events that connect us with the broader community. We aspire to create a harmonious athletic environment where every student feels empowered to explore their passions.

With this vibrant sports culture as our foundation, the Office of Sports & Exercise is poised to enrich the lives of students, embodying Ashoka’s commitment to holistic development and success. Join us on this exhilarating journey as we celebrate achievement, inclusivity, and the joy of sports!

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Annual exposure to air pollution increases the risk of mortality in India indicating an urgent need to reduce the levels of air pollution across the country

A new study published in the Lancet Planetary Health found that long-term exposure to PM_2.5 increased deaths by 1.5 million deaths per year in India compared to if it met the WHO guidelines. We observed that the risk is high even at lower air pollution levels, indicating the need to reduce air pollution levels across the country. The study included annual death data reported across all districts and PM_2.5 exposure from a spatio-temporal model built for India.  

Major findings:

1. Every 10 μg/m³ increase in annual PM_2.5 exposure is associated with an 8.6% increased risk for mortality across India.��
2. Unlike previous studies, this study used PM_2.5 exposure from a fine spatio-temporal model built for India and annual mortality counts reported across all districts of India.��
3. First Indian study to use difference-in-difference method, a causal methodology to isolate the effect of long-term PM_2.5 exposure (annual) and all-cause mortality.
4. During the study period (2009 to 2019), 25% of all deaths (~1.5 million deaths a year) were attributed to annual PM_2.5 exposure higher than the WHO guideline value of 5 μg/m³ across the country.��
5. About 0.3 million annual deaths are attributed to annual exposure to PM_2.5 above the Indian National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).
6. The exposure-response function revealed higher incremental risk for mortality at lower PM_2.5 concentrations and levelling off at higher PM_2.5 concentrations.

Implications:

• The study results highlight the extent of the mortality burden due to PM_2.5 pollution in the world’s most highly populated country.����
• The results underpin the need for stricter air pollution guidelines to prevent the excess mortality due to air pollution.��

The results highlight a huge mortality burden and the need for stricter national ambient air quality standards in India. This research was conducted by members  from the consortium comprising academic institutions in India (Centre for Health Analytics Research and Trends (CHART), 51���, Sonipat, Haryana & Centre for Chronic Disease Control, New Delhi), Sweden (Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm), USA (Harvard University, Boston University, Boston, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai), Israel (Ben-Gurion University of the Negev) and Italy (Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Region Health Service/ASL Roma 1).

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Unlocking Potential: 51���’s Centres Expo 2024

The campus buzzed with energy on December 4 as everyone gathered for the much-anticipated 51��� Centres Expo 2024. This unique event brought together Ashoka's trailblazing Centres under one roof to showcase their transformative work.

With the theme ‘Unlocking Potential’, the Expo offered a dynamic platform for students, faculty, and staff to explore the diverse initiatives of the Centres, engage in meaningful conversations, and uncover collaboration opportunities. From climate change to AI, and public policy to gender studies, the Centres shared a detailed picture of their efforts to address pressing societal challenges through research, innovation, and impact-driven initiatives.

The Expo featured 18 Centres, each presenting their unique contributions:

• Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability (3CS)
• Ashoka Centre for Translation (ACT)
• Centre for Health Analytics, Research and Trends (CHART)
• Centre for Data Science and Analytics (CDSA)
• Centre for Digitalization, AI and Society (CDAIS)
• Centre for Studies in Gender and Sexuality (CSGS)
• Centre for Economic Data and Analysis (CEDA)
• Centre for Interdisciplinary Archaeological Research (CIAR)
• Isaac Centre for Public Policy (ICPP)
• Koita Centre for Digital Health (KCDH-A)
• Safexpress Centre for Data, Learning, and Decision Sciences
• Centre for Social and Behaviour Change (CSBC)
• Centre for Social Impact and Philanthropy (CSIP)
• Ashoka Centre for a People-Centric Energy Transition (ACPET)
• InfoEdge Centre for Entrepreneurship (CFE)
• Archives of Contemporary India (ACI)
• Ashoka Centre for China Studies (ACCS)
• The Centre for the Creative and the Critical (CCC)

Each stall brought its vision to life with interactive exhibits, engaging presentations, and thought-provoking conversations. Attendees walked away with not just knowledge but also a renewed appreciation for the impactful work happening at 51���.

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51��� Joins Global Effort to Tackle Antimicrobial Resistance with WHO’s Prestigious IPSN Grant

51��� is delighted to announce that a collaborative project led by Dr Laasya Samhita, Assistant Professor at Ashoka, has been awarded the prestigious International Pathogen Surveillance Network (IPSN) catalytic grant. This milestone project, which focuses on combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR), is supported by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and major global foundations.

Dr Laasya Samhita, along with co-applicants Dr Mahesh Dharne (NCL, Pune) and Dr Shraddha Karve (51���), and public health managers Priyanki Shah (PKC, Pune) and Dr Aradhita Baral (51���), represents a strong team dedicated to solving one of the world's most pressing public health challenges.

The Ashoka-led project, "Quantitative Mapping of Environmental to Clinical AMR via DNA Barcoding," will address critical gaps in understanding how resistance genes spread between environments and clinics. By correlating this data, the team aims to improve public health strategies and inform future interventions to mitigate the impact of AMR.

Antimicrobial resistance is a complex health problem that threatens to undermine modern medicine. Speaking about the project, Dr Laasya shared:
“We are very happy to be one of the first batch of awardees of the IPSN grant. AMR is a multi-pathogen challenge, and this work will characterise and correlate specific antibiotic-resistance genes in the environment and clinics. Additionally, the project will aim to establish scalable DNA barcoding-based surveillance for more accurate disease models using local data. By directly testing how environmental AMR impacts clinical AMR, we hope to guide future public health funding more effectively.”

This significant research initiative is the only project from India to receive the IPSN catalytic grant, setting 51��� apart on the global stage. Other recipients hail from countries across South Asia, Southeast Asia, South America, the Middle East, and Africa in collaboration with members from many European countries.

The IPSN grant, launched by WHO and supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, The Rockefeller Foundation, and Wellcome, funds innovative projects in various countries to expand pathogen genomic surveillance, enabling countries to better track, understand, and combat infectious diseases.

With support from this grant, Dr Laasya’s team aims to pave the way for scalable, actionable insights that will transform the fight against AMR, not just in India but across the world.

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Ashoka Infirmary Becomes India’s First On-Campus Clinic to Receive NABH Accreditation

The Ashoka Infirmary, operated by our medical services partner Blue Circle Medi Services Pvt. Ltd. (BCMS), has received the prestigious National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH) accreditation. This is especially significant, as Ashoka Infirmary is the first and only on-campus clinic in India to earn this recognition, joining an elite group of healthcare providers nationwide. Awarded by the Quality Council of India (QCI), NABH accreditation is the gold standard for healthcare quality in India, representing a commitment to exceptional patient care and safety. This achievement reflects the collaborative efforts of 51��� and BCMS to provide top-quality healthcare services on campus. The National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH) is a constituent board of the Quality Council of India, which was set up to establish and operate accreditation programme for healthcare organisations. Its primary role is to address consumer needs and set benchmarks for the progress of health industry. The NABH accreditation certificate awarded to Ashoka Infirmary is valid from August 1, 2024, to July 31, 2027.

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Ashoka’s Influence on Sustainable Entrepreneurship: The Breathe ESG Journey

We spoke to Karantaj Singh, an Ashoka Alum about his journey in sustainability, from co-founding the Deepam Initiative to establishing Breathe ESG, and how his experiences have shaped his commitment to environmental responsibility.

Can you share how your passion for sustainability has influenced your career path?
I’ve always been passionate about sustainability, and that passion has shaped my journey over the years. At the age of 16, I co-founded the Deepam Initiative in 2015, focusing on building climate infrastructure in rural Karnataka. In 2017, I transitioned into the CSR space, deploying capital for Embassy Group tenants in Bangalore, which further honed my understanding of how businesses can influence communities. In 2021, I joined KPMG, working in their Infrastructure, Governance, and Healthcare department. It was here that I had the opportunity to become part of the first ESG Advisory team in India. This experience was pivotal in understanding the complexities of ESG and how essential it is to businesses today. In July 2022, I founded Breathe ESG to build an enterprise operating system that empowers companies to manage sustainability effectively.

Could you share the story behind founding Breathe ESG and what inspired you to pursue this entrepreneurial journey?
The journey of starting Breathe ESG began with a realisation during my time at KPMG. While working with clients across sectors, I saw firsthand how complex and scattered ESG data management and reporting processes were. Sustainability was rapidly evolving into a core business function, yet the technology to support it lagged behind. There were comprehensive systems for procurement, HR, and finance, but no dedicated platform for sustainability management. That’s when I knew the time was right to build a solution that integrated all aspects of ESG into a seamless process.

In July 2022, I took the leap and founded Breathe ESG with a personal loan of ₹6 lakhs. With this capital, I built the MVP and began generating interest. By December 2022, we raised our first investor cheque of ₹1.25 crore from 100X.VC, which allowed us to scale both the team and the product. By July 2023, we had raised another ₹1.25 crore from strategic angel investors, fueling our early traction and growth.

How has Ashoka’s open and liberal atmosphere impacted your thinking as an entrepreneur?
Ashoka’s liberal academic landscape was instrumental in shaping my entrepreneurial mindset, particularly through my time studying under Professor Priyank Narayan. His approach to entrepreneurship emphasised disruptive thinking, and he constantly pushed us to challenge conventional ideas. This mindset was pivotal when the idea for Breathe ESG began to take shape. It made me realise that innovation in the sustainability space, required more than just incremental improvements—it called for reimagining the entire process.

Beyond the classroom, Ashoka’s interdisciplinary curriculum allowed me to view challenges from multiple lenses, while the vibrant campus culture fostered a spirit of collaboration and intellectual curiosity. This blend of academic rigour and creative freedom helped lay the foundation for my entrepreneurial journey, ultimately inspiring the creation of Breathe ESG.

What kind of positive changes do you hope your venture will bring to society?
At Breathe ESG, our primary mission is to make the transition to a sustainable planet affordable, accessible, and efficient.

We recognise that effective sustainability management not only benefits the environment but also contributes to social equity and economic resilience. By providing a comprehensive enterprise operating system for sustainability, we aim to simplify and streamline the complex processes of carbon accounting, compliance, and ESG reporting for businesses of all sizes.

One of the most significant ways we see our venture making a positive impact is through enabling organisations to measure and reduce their carbon footprints, thus contributing to global efforts against climate change. By facilitating transparency in sustainability practices, we help companies build trust with their stakeholders, including customers, investors, and communities. This transparency can lead to more informed decision-making and greater accountability.

Additionally, by supporting businesses in their sustainability journeys, we promote responsible practices that can lead to job creation, resource conservation, and enhanced community well-being. Our focus on technology also allows us to reach a broader audience, making sustainability tools accessible to organisations that might not have the resources to implement them otherwise.

Ultimately, we aspire to be a catalyst for change, helping businesses not only meet regulatory requirements but also adopt proactive approaches to sustainability that align with their values and drive long-term positive outcomes for society.

What insights would you share with students or graduates considering a venture of their own?
You will encounter 99 reasons to talk yourself out of taking the plunge, it's crucial to hold on to that 1 compelling reason that drives you forward.

This age is the perfect time to take risks. If you don’t take risks now, you might never.

Trust your instincts, stay committed to your vision, and don't be afraid.

About Breathe ESG:

Breathe ESG is building enterprise SaaS to streamline sustainability management. While ESG adoption and compliance are necessities, 91% of businesses struggle to meet their sustainability goals, mainly due to data management challenges. The platform centralises sustainability data management and enables precise ESG reporting. Breathe ESG is already live and being used by companies such as WeWork, Embassy Group, ESPL, and Ethos. Additionally, it is conducting pilots with well-known names in the built environment sector. Breathe Impact, the social impact solution, allows users to scientifically track the social impact of CSR projects by defining KPIs, assigning targets, and managing CSR finances. The solutions are designed with organisations that have little to no experience in ESG reporting in mind.

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Above & Beyond: A Decade of Entrepreneurial Excellence++

A decade ago while India was undertaking its maiden interplanetary mission to claim a spot in the Martian orbit, an entrepreneurial mission in the field of education was hatching up in the historic land of Sonipat, a place whose reference exists in the Mahabharata.

The latter was the establishment of a true Liberal Arts University in India with a Centre for Entrepreneurship (CFE) in it. This was a game changer in a country where entrepreneurship has usually been viewed as the dominion of the techies and science grads. Our visionary institution builders have been like master chefs in believing that entrepreneurship is like the much needed salt in the gourmet meal of the Humanities and Sciences offerings that would be served to the future of our great nation.

The Centre had its mission clearly cut out from day one. The undergraduate students and fellows (read Young India Fellows) that came in to get a Liberal Arts education, how could we:

• Inspire them to be entrepreneurial, not think of themselves to be just job seekers but instill the confidence in them to be job creators
• Inculcate an entrepreneurial mindset and equip them with the right tools to become intrapreneurs (in whichever organisation or sector they join in, be it consultancy, social impact, or even education) and entrepreneurs (whenever they decide to become one)
• Incubate any entrepreneurial idea and help them validate, grow, and become a venture founders

As the Centre turns a decade younger this year, it has also started taking small steps in Inquire - entrepreneurial research.

The tribe of 250+ Ashokapreneurs (that’s what we call our Ashoka Entrepreneurs) is growing with each passing quarter. Few of them have already pledged support to their alma mater which proves the significance of Entrepreneurship in the new global order. The patronage and guidance from Info Edge, a Champion of the Indian entrepreneurial ecosystem has been instrumental in putting wind in our sails.

During my stint here at the Centre, I have had the opportunity to witness the scale up in the number of students and alums that we interact with through our diverse range of offerings like the Entrepreneurship Minor (courses cutting across Strategy, Marketing, Finance & Accounting, Information Systems & Decision Sciences, and Public Policy), incubation programs, workshops, guest speaker sessions, etc.; and thereby catalysing their life journeys. There is no greater satisfaction than receiving a communication of gratitude from a student or alum acknowledging how the Centre helped them in getting a grant for their startup or cracking an interview. One of the most heartwarming experiences for me was when a student with visual disability thanked us for making them feel comfortable and cared for during an entrepreneurship course related field trip in Purani Dilli (visualise the narrow and congested Old Delhi lanes). It turned out that it was their first field trip from Ashoka and the credit here goes to the amazing Teaching Assistants of that course. I also get to work with some amazing, smart, creative, and humane human beings in the age of AI. Even though our truly inspirational Mars Orbiter Mission came to an end two years ago, Entrepreneurship at Ashoka and the Entrepreneurial Mindset and Ventures of Ashokans are here to stay till Mars is visible through the naked eyes from the 51��� campus. Feel free to use the telescope from the Physics Lab for a closer view of Mars. Drop by at CFE for anything Entrepreneurial.

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Prof Mitul Baruah Joins Esteemed Climate Change Panel at Pratidin Media Network Conclave 2024

Mitul Baruah, Head of the Department of Environmental Studies and Associate Professor of Sociology, Anthropology, and Environmental Studies at 51���, participated in the Pratidin Media Network Conclave 2024, held at The Ashok in New Delhi on October 5-6, 2024.

The conclave was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Vice President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar. The inaugural session also featured Hon’ble Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal.

Session 1, led by 2014 Nobel Prize Winner Kailash Satyarthi, addressed the theme "Igniting Compassion: Taking Action Against Child Trafficking." In Session 2, titled "Climate Change: Adaptation and Resilience Strategies to Address Climate Change Challenges," Professor Baruah contributed alongside an esteemed panel of experts such as Jatindra Sharma, Ex-Chief Conservator of Forest & Field Director, Kaziranga National Park; Dr. Dipankar Saharia, Senior Director at TERI; and Professor Kham Khan from the University of Hyderabad.

The two-day conclave brought together eminent figures from politics, business, academia, and media to discuss key issues impacting the Northeast region. Discussions aimed to foster dialogue and exchange of ideas that ultimately contribute to the betterment of the region.

Notable participants included Hon’ble Minister of External Affairs, S. Jaishankar; Hon’ble Minister of Parliamentary and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju; Delhi’s Chief Minister, Atishi; Meghalaya Chief Minister, Conrad Sangma; AICC General Secretary, Sachin Pilot; Olympian Lovlina Borgohain; political activist Yogendra Yadav; editors Patricia Mukhim and Karma Paljor; Indian singer-composer Joi Barua; and filmmaker Dominic Sangma, among others.

The conclave concluded with a performance by Joi Barua and his band. This third edition of the conclave was organised by Asomiya Pratidin and Pratidin Time, iconic media brands representing Assam and Northeast India.

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Building Connections Through Art: The Vision Behind The Abstract Room

Sankalp Sharma hails from the business city of Surat, thus enterprising comes naturally to him. Though he only partially realised his dream of playing cricket at the highest level by competing at the state level, he found a new passion in arts and entrepreneurship. As the founder of The Abstract Room, a global social community dedicated to creating unique experiences around cinema, literature, and other forms of art, Sankalp has sharpened his skills in event curation and management, community engagement, social media and art criticism. He also carries some professional experience in creative production, podcasting and screenwriting.

Academically, Sankalp has completed his Bachelor’s in Management Studies and Marketing from Narsee Monjee College of Commerce and Economics, Mumbai, and then pursued the Young India Fellowship, a prestigious postgraduate liberal arts diploma from 51���.

When not juggling two full-time jobs, you can find him working out, or diving into obscure films and books! In conversation with us, Sankalp shares about his passion about storytelling, cinema and his entrepreneurial journey!

Upon feeling the lack of a supportive community to nurture my fresh interests, I started an online platform called The Abstract Room. A sanctuary for individuals like me, who have an urge to explore the profound impact of storytelling and a yearning to discuss them without inhibition or fear of judgement.

What inspired you to start The Abstract Room, and what has the journey been like up to this point?

Growing up, I was not exposed to quality storytelling in the form of cinema, literature, music or poetry. This led to my perception being that they were unimportant and something that one must keep in the periphery of their life. I lacked the ability to think critically and articulate my thoughts on the things around me. It wasn’t until my college years that I felt the need to become socially aware. Stories became a unique and accessible way for me to learn more about the state of the world, myself and my emotions, and that of others.

I felt the urge to share and discuss this newfound passion with others and sought avenues for the same. I discovered a glaring absence of spaces where people could come together, explore stories and discuss them. I found the existing book and film clubs and debating societies to be exclusionary in more ways than one.

The Abstract Room journey has been as remarkable as it’s been resilient. It started as a zero-investment venture and has sustained itself since day one, attracting a thriving community that spans over 3,100 people across 15 countries, from 15-year-old students to retired professionals in their 70s. Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic as a purely online platform, The Abstract Room offered a safe space for people to unwind and connect through discussions on films, books, and art. Over the last 4.5 years, it has flourished into nearly 400 online events and more than 30 in-person events across Mumbai, Pune, Surat, Haryana, and Uttarakhand. Our gatherings have evolved from intimate film and book discussions to a lively mix of open mics, screenings, artist interviews, quizzes, jamming sessions, and educational workshops. What started as an online refuge has transformed into a vibrant, global community for art, conversation, and creativity.

How has Ashoka’s interdisciplinary approach impacted your entrepreneurial mindset?

Through the Young India Fellowship’s Experiential Learning Module, I piloted a new vertical of The Abstract Room, designing film-based workshops for school and college students to impart crucial skills and life lessons. With a dedicated team, a seed fund of 25,000 INR, and structured mentorship, we developed five impactful workshops, engaging over 600 students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds across three states. This hands-on experience not only provided me with an enterprising structure and solidified our approach but also earned us the ‘Best ELM Award’ for achieving meaningful impact and validating a model with promising growth potential.

What positive impact does your venture aim to bring to the community or industry?

The Abstract Room was born from a desire to create a space where people could come together to explore and discuss stories freely, without judgment. What began as a small, weekly online meetup has evolved into a vibrant, global community—more than just a platform, it has become a family. In an era dominated by doom-scrolling, shallow consumption, and fleeting attention spans, we invite our members to pause, reflect, and truly engage with art. Through a shared love for cinema, literature, poetry, and music, we have built a community grounded in empathy, curiosity, and self-expression.

We aim to provide a welcoming place where diverse voices are heard, complex topics are explored, and genuine connections are made. The Abstract Room encourages members to look beyond simple opinions or social media soundbites, cultivating a deeper understanding and appreciation for different perspectives.

About Abstract Room:

The Abstract Room is a social community that welcomes anyone interested in exploring stories across various formats, including cinema, literature, and other forms of art. Operating on a membership model, as of August 2024, over 3,000 people have participated in their events, with more than 450 subscribing to their membership. Their offerings include film screenings and discussions, book discussions, open mics, conversations with filmmakers, and music appreciation sessions, attracting school and college students, professionals, and businesspeople alike.

Our motto, ‘Pause for Art’, reflects our mission to help people connect through meaningful conversations and the restorative power of stories. It’s a place for rest, insight, and growth—a community that embraces vulnerability, celebrates creativity and upholds ideals that we hope to see more widely embraced in the world.

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Spreading Smiles and Change: My Journey Towards Social Entrepreneurship

Nitin Jain, a Young India Fellowship alum from 51���, has carved a meaningful path in social entrepreneurship focused on growth, learning, and purpose-driven work. With a background in commerce and management, Ashoka’s liberal arts environment broadened his perspective, motivating him to lead the Spread Smile Foundation (SSF), an organisation dedicated to uplifting underserved communities in Sonipat, Haryana, and beyond.

In conversation with us, Nitin shares insights into his journey into social entrepreneurship, the inspiration behind the Spread Smile Foundation, and how his experiences at 51��� have shaped his commitment to uplifting communities.

What drove you to embark on this entrepreneurial journey, and what has the process been like for you so far?
The motivation to start SSF came from a deep-rooted sense of purpose. In January 2019, I saw the critical gaps in access to education, healthcare, and child protection, especially in rural communities. I felt compelled to address these challenges through youth-led initiatives, and so Spread Smile was born, with a vision not just for temporary aid but for sustainable community development.

In what ways has Ashoka’s liberal arts approach influenced your perspective on entrepreneurship?
51��� played a transformative role in this journey. The liberal environment encouraged me to think critically, question norms, and seek solutions grounded in empathy and inclusivity. A key influence has been Ekanto’s mentorship at the InfoEdge Center for Entrepreneurship. Ekanto offered me continuous guidance, providing SSF with exposure and practical support that directly benefited women in rural areas by offering them sustainable livelihood opportunities.

One collaboration that’s particularly close to my heart is with Lovsy, an Ashoka student-run startup. This partnership provides consistent income opportunities to rural women connected with SSF. Now in its second year, this collaboration is a result of Ekanto’s support and dedication to fostering impactful connections. From student field visits to partnerships with impact-focused clubs, these opportunities have helped SSF expand significantly.

How did you manage the demands of running your own venture while also balancing the rigorous academic schedule?
Balancing academics with SSF was challenging yet rewarding. I managed my time strategically, often dedicating weekends and breaks to the foundation. The support from faculty and peers made it possible to apply insights from the classroom directly into our work on the ground. Friends like Nene Ibezim and Suhas Peela from the Young India Fellowship have also been instrumental, bringing global exposure to SSF and helping us connect with communities.

How does SSF aim to make a positive difference in the lives of others?
Through SSF, I aim to inspire others to engage in community welfare and realise their potential to make lasting societal changes. For me, it’s about empowering communities to uplift themselves, making progress that’s self-sustaining.

Spread Smile Foundation has shown me the power of dedication and a holistic education. I’m grateful to Ashoka and everyone who has been part of this journey for helping me transform my aspirations into real, impactful change.

About Spread Smile Foundation:

Spread Smile Foundation Trust, founded by Nitin Jain with the support of family and friends, is an NGO committed to uplifting underprivileged communities through education, health, sanitation, and environmental initiatives. Established on 13 January 2019, the foundation launched its first educational programme, Project विद्याफल, on 26 January, focusing on slum areas. Currently operating in three locations, the trust educates around 200 children, encouraging them to attend classes and move away from activities like begging. The foundation welcomes individuals of all ages to contribute to their mission.

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Unboxed Thinking: How Ashoka’s Liberal Arts Approach Shaped My Path

Gurasheesh Paul Singh, an 51��� alum, grew up in rural North Kashmir. His curiosity about himself and his roots led him to major in history and international relations. Although he didn't initially harbor any professional ambition in these fields, the freedom of a liberal arts education emboldened him to pursue technology as a career. He gained hands-on experience at 51���’s neuroscience lab under Professor Bittu before eventually starting his own company.

In conversation with us, Gurasheesh shared insights into his upbringing in rural North Kashmir, his journey through the fields of history and international relations, and how his experiences at 51��� have influenced his passion for technology and entrepreneurship.

What motivated you to start your venture, and what has the journey been like so far?
I realised early on that I wanted to be in control of the impact I have on the world and be free to work on things that excited me—finding something so tailored to an existing job felt unrealistic. So, the obvious answer was to do it myself, which aligned well with my penchant for making things. I could make things, and now I could make a living from making them too.

How has Ashoka’s liberal arts approach influenced your idea of entrepreneurship?
It was central to not getting boxed into a discipline or an ideology. I was attracted to Ashoka because of what it claimed to be before we—the first undergraduates—set foot on campus. Ten years later, I’m glad to report that it did indeed enable me to learn in earnest, not as a byproduct of seeking a vocation, which in turn allows me to lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

In what ways does your venture aim to bring about positive change in the community?
I hope it can meaningfully enhance access to energy, decarbonise energy, and generate employment along the way.

What advice would you give to Ashoka students or alumni who are aspiring to start their own ventures?
There’s a SpongeBob episode where they decide to become “entrepreneurs” after reading the “Fancy Living” magazine and observing how a guy is so rich he has a pool in his pool. “Fancy Living” may be reason enough for some, but having your own venture can be a vehicle for so much more. If you can recruit some core motivational forces in your life and channel them into your venture, you’re more likely to persevere when the going gets tough.

About Zool Energy:

Zool Energy offers a sustainable alternative to traditional fuel-based generators by providing backup devices that are cost-effective, silent, and lightweight. These innovative solutions are designed to replace high-emission, noisy, and cumbersome generators. Zool Energy's devices can be charged using the grid, solar, or wind energy, promoting cleaner and more efficient energy usage.

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Balancing Books and Business: Aashraya’s Entrepreneurial Odyssey

Aashraya Adhikari, a 3rd-year international student from Nepal at 51���, has made a name for himself both as a young entrepreneur and as a content creator. With a focus on Economics, Finance, and Entrepreneurship, Aashraya is also the Founding CEO of Lovsy, a startup dedicated to bringing the Nepali hog plum (Lapsi) candy to a broader audience. His entrepreneurial journey started quite early, as he was the youngest contestant on Nepal's startup pitching competition, Ideapreneur. In addition to Lovsy, he is a passionate content creator and has posted multiple videos on entrepreneurship and economics on YouTube and TikTok in Nepali, aiming to inspire and educate others.

Aashraya started Lovsy along with Suprabh Raj Joshi, a 2nd year international student from Nepal studying Sociology and Anthropology, Environment Science and Entrepreneurship at 51���. Suprabh is the founding COO of Lovsy. He has a history of trying to start businesses, mainly The Kapada Company, a nepali hemp clothing line. He is a passionate musician with over 5 original singles on spotify.

In a candid chat with us, Aashraya shares about his passion for entrepreneurship, his venture Lovsy, and the inspiration behind his entrepreneurial path at 51���.

Can you walk us through your journey of starting your venture and what sparked your interest in entrepreneurship?
Lovsy started in the 2023 iteration of the CfE’s Startup Ashoka. We both grew up eating Nepali hog plum candies and took great pride in being Nepali. This shared interest and background led us to believe that having a brand around the Lapsi and its products could help the fruit reach the world, which otherwise was deeply neglected. After pitching the startup in the event, and placing 4th, we decided to pursue it properly.

How did Ashoka's liberal arts education contribute to the development of your entrepreneurial mindset?
Ashoka’s pedagogy has allowed both of us to embrace criticality to a great extent. Having the option to study multiple disciplines has allowed us to grow holistically. Our research abilities in the past years have reached new heights allowing us to pursue the start-up in a more systematic and strategic way. Additionally, training in multiple disciplines has allowed us to think in ways, which we didn’t before coming to Ashoka. This has enabled us to pick and choose from different disciplines the specific skills we like and pragmatically use them in the real world.

What were the major challenges you encountered while launching your venture, and how did you address them?
After reaching a certain scale, entrepreneurs have to reach out for external help. We were doing all of our packaging, branding and selling. While this meant we had full control in the company’s operations, we also stopped having time to do academics and other things on campus. Packaging became a big problem for us, as we were packing over 500+ packets by hand. We solved this problem by reaching out to the Spread Smile Foundation in Sonipat and assigning our packaging to marginalised women.

How do you manage the challenges of running a venture while also balancing your academic responsibilities?
Our contrasting yet complementary skills allowed us to balance the demands of running Lovsy on campus with academics. A big part of how we have sustained ourselves is our teamwork and interesting compatibility. Additionally, we understand our priorities and can pick and choose when necessary.

What key advice would you give to students or alumni who are considering starting their own businesses, based on your personal experiences and insights?
We think the only thing that matters is to try and do it with consistency. Things don't always work out especially on campus as there are so many factors at play, but working hard and consistently for an extended period of time matters the most. Additionally, one needs to be able to make the best use of all the resources the 51��� campus provides us with. It is a great place for anybody willing to start something.

What positive change do you hope to make with your venture?
There are three ways we feel we are making some kind of impact:

• Lovsy works with marginalised women both in Nepal and Sonipat, enabling women's empowerment as well as the creation of an equitable society.
• We are trying our best to showcase that entrepreneurship can be a career path for Nepali youth and if done systematically, can be a great career choice for all.
• We are also taking the Lapsi to the world, which otherwise was neglected by farmers as well as the government in terms of protection and policy.

About Lovsy:

Lovsy is a brand founded by passionate young Nepali entrepreneurs with the vision of bringing products made from the exotic Himalayan fruit, Lapsi, to a global audience. Initially focusing on handmade candies, Lovsy aims to showcase authentic Himalayan delicacies and introduce the unique flavours of the region to the world.

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My Vision for Impact: Leveraging Ashoka’s Values in Entrepreneurship

Shubham Oswal, a Political Science undergraduate at 51���, began his journey as a dorm-room entrepreneur. He is the co-founder of Gudmom by 1 Organic, a venture focused on making organic products affordable, and Basillia Organics, a leading company in the organic foods supply chain industry. With an exclusive network of over 5,000 farmers, Basillia operates on a true farm-to-fork model alongside its retail arm, ‘1 Organic.’

Shubham is also deeply committed to creating large-scale impact through his initiatives in the water and agriculture sectors. His efforts to save and recharge millions of liters of water into groundwater aquifers were acknowledged by Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, India’s Minister of Jal Shakti (Water Resources).

We spoke to Shubham about the driving force behind his entrepreneurial journey and how 51��� has nurtured his passion and spirit.

What sparked the start of your entrepreneurial journey, and what inspired you to pursue this path?
I started as a dorm-room Entrepreneur during my first year at Ashoka, out to establish a successful venture in Organic & Millet Foods, which is recognised nationally and internationally. I always had that fire in the belly to make an impact through the path less taken.

How do you feel Ashoka’s liberal arts education has helped cultivate your approach to entrepreneurship?
Without the liberal arts background, I wouldn't have been able to achieve this mindset. Liberal arts always give you a larger picture of life.

What were some key challenges you encountered in getting your venture off the ground, and what strategies helped you overcome them?
I came across thousands of problems, and there is only one way to overcome them: go through them, don’t quit, keep moving, and keep pivoting until you find the sweet spot.

What strategies do you use to balance the responsibilities of running a venture with your academic commitments?
It is difficult, but you ought to do what you ought to do. If you want to do it truly from deep within you, this will be one of the least of your concerns, trust me on this.

What advice would you offer to fellow students or alumni thinking about launching their own ventures?
Never quit. Keep moving, no matter what.

In what ways do you wish to positively impact society?
We are working with over 7,000 farmers, providing them with sustainable livelihoods and income. Our aim is to expand this to 100,000 in the coming years.

About Gudmom by 1 Organic:

Gudmom is dedicated to delivering certified organic farm food directly to your kitchen, transforming it into a “Kitchen Pharmacy.” The initiative focuses on promoting health and wellness through natural, wholesome ingredients, allowing individuals to harness the healing power of food. By prioritising organic produce, Gudmom aims to enhance everyday cooking while supporting a healthier lifestyle

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From Liberal Arts to Entrepreneurship: My Transformative Journey at Ashoka

Aarya Jhaveri, founder of Candyd, started his journey into entrepreneurship with a strong desire to create meaningful, personalised gifts that capture emotions and memories. While studying Politics, Philosophy, and Economics at 51���, with a minor in Entrepreneurship, he discovered his passion for creating gifts that go beyond the material, focusing on emotional connections.

We spoke to Aarya about his venture, the inspiration behind it, and how his journey unfolded from his time at 51���.

How did you begin your entrepreneurial journey, and what motivated you to pursue this path?

My journey with Candyd began during my time at 51���. I’ve always been passionate about creating meaningful gifts that focus on emotional connections rather than just material value. That desire to give people a way to express their feelings and preserve memories in a unique way inspired me to start Candyd.

How has Ashoka's liberal arts education influenced the development of your entrepreneurial mindset?

Ashoka’s liberal arts education, particularly the support from the InfoEdge Centre for Entrepreneurship, played a huge role in shaping my entrepreneurial mindset. The interdisciplinary approach at Ashoka allowed me to think broadly and connect different ideas, which is essential in entrepreneurship. The Centre created an environment where I could experiment with new ideas and test them without the fear of failure. The courses, which blended theory with real-life examples, along with the mentorship from professors who had practical experience, helped me refine my vision for Candyd and build a strong foundation for the brand.

What were the key challenges you encountered when launching your venture, and how did you navigate through them?

One of the biggest challenges was standing out in the competitive gifting market. There are so many options available, so we had to find a way to differentiate Candyd by focusing on emotional storytelling and personalisation. Another challenge was managing the logistics of scaling personalised products for bulk orders. Over time, we streamlined our production process and worked closely with designers to ensure that every product was both unique and high-quality.

How do you balance the demands of running a venture with your academic life?

Balancing the demands of running Candyd and my academic life was definitely tough, but I’ve been lucky to have a strong support system. My sister, Isha, who is also the co-founder of Candyd, has been instrumental in managing the business alongside me. In addition to her, I’ve had incredible support from our team and close friends, who helped me juggle responsibilities. Good time management and setting clear priorities were key to making it all work.

What guidance would you offer to students or alumni thinking about launching their own ventures?

My advice is to start with something you’re passionate about because that passion will carry you through the tough times. Don’t wait for the “perfect time”—take small steps, whether it’s testing an idea, building a prototype, or gathering feedback. Be open to learning and adapting because things won’t always go as planned. Lastly, surround yourself with supportive mentors and peers who can offer guidance and encouragement along the way. How do you envision your venture contributing positively to society? At Candyd, we believe that gifting is a powerful way to strengthen emotional connections. By offering personalised, thoughtful gifts, we help people express their feelings and create lasting memories. We also collaborate with local artists and designers, giving them a platform to showcase their talent. In that way, Candyd not only brings joy to individuals but also supports the creative community. Our aim is to make gifting a more meaningful and impactful experience, one that fosters connection and positivity.

About Candyd:

Candyd is a creative venture dedicated to crafting unique keepsakes that celebrate personal stories and connections. The team is passionate about storytelling and seeks to transform cherished memories into heartfelt expressions that reflect individual journeys. By breaking traditional moulds, Candyd highlights the significance of each moment, ensuring that every keepsake resonates emotionally with its owner. Committed to making memories unforgettable, Candyd combines playful creativity with a personal touch.

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Navigating the Skies of Branding: Lessons from Akasa Air Learning Academy

On the 7th of September, the students of “In Pursuit of Service Excellence” taught by Aditya Ghosh (Founder, Akasa Air & 51���) visited the Akasa Air Learning Academy in Gurgaon. We started our journey at 10 in the morning and reached the academy by noon. The staff were warm and welcoming, from the watchman at the gate and the receptionist who handed out visitor cards to the bhaiyas serving us lunch and the staff guiding us on the facility tour. Our faculty highlighted how Akasa Air curates a seamless customer experience, emphasizing that the same treatment you receive from the security guard is mirrored by the air hostesses. This consistency ensures a unified brand experience from start to finish. One notable detail was the presence of white tables, used to train air hostess trainees to maintain awareness of their surroundings. This attention to detail reflects how Akasa Air keeps its planes impeccably clean, ensuring high standards for its customers.

We had the chance to explore various training rooms. One was dedicated solely to teaching trainees about which items are allowed and prohibited on flights. There was also a partial model of an actual Akasa plane, offering an immersive experience of performing duties in the air. Another room, still under construction, was being designed to replicate the exact dimensions of a plane aisle. This space would allow trainees to practice walking down the narrow aisle with trays of food and drinks, preparing them for real-world scenarios. Overall, the academy was well-built and fascinating to explore.

After the tour, we had lunch and then settled in for a three-hour lecture. The class started as it usually does—asking us to recap what we covered in previous sessions. We then moved on to discuss the preparatory questions he had assigned. When thinking about these prompts, Chamberlain Coffee came to mind. I admire the brand’s founder, and purchasing products from her brand makes me feel more connected to her persona. Merchandise serves as a tangible way to maintain that connection with someone you admire. I still use products from the brand because they are functional (like tote bags and sippers) and aesthetically pleasing.

This discussion led into the main topic of the day: What is a brand? Professor Ghosh handed the floor to our guest speaker, Mr. Shouvik Roy, who leads Brand Marketing for G.O.A.T Brand Labs and handles Business Transformation for Monks in India. He asked us what we thought a brand was, and from the responses, it became clear that a brand serves as a bridge between a product and its consumers, setting one provider apart in a crowded market. A brand communicates its promise, telling consumers what it stands for and what they can expect. Beyond just a name or logo, a brand encapsulates its value proposition, fostering trust and loyalty while shaping emotional connections that influence buying decisions. A strong brand consistently reinforces its promise with every interaction.

One of the most interesting parts of the lecture was when Mr. Roy showed us an infographic of a cattle branded with a mark, explaining that this was the first recorded instance of branding. I also learned that Colgate, established in 1873, was the first commercial brand. We then discussed the three phases of a brand. Initially, a brand’s purpose is to assure consistent quality, establishing itself as a “trust mark.” In the second phase, the brand evolves into a unique selling point (USP) with its own personality, forming deeper relationships with consumers. Over time, a brand becomes a repository of shared meanings and beliefs, representing more than just a product—it becomes an expression of values that deliver meaningful experiences.

Another fascinating concept was PATH—Promise, Acceptance, Trust, and Hope. This framework explains how brands build lasting relationships with consumers. It starts with a clear promise, setting expectations for quality and values. This is followed by acceptance, where consumers recognize and embrace the brand’s message. As the brand consistently delivers on its promise, it earns trust, securing customer loyalty. Eventually, the brand instills hope, transforming the relationship from transactional to emotional, where consumers believe in the brand’s vision and long-term impact.

My favorite part of the class was the discussion on cult branding. It was intriguing to learn how the fine line between a popular brand and a cult brand is drawn. When emotion, rather than logic, drives purchasing decisions, a brand can transform into a cult brand, fostering loyalty that goes beyond product functionality. In contrast, low-risk products, driven more by practicality than emotion, are easily replaceable because they lack that deep emotional attachment.

Lastly, we discussed the brand value ladder, using the example of Mercedes and BMW. While both are high-quality German-made cars, Mercedes is perceived as the car you want to be driven in, whereas BMW is the car you want to drive. This distinction in brand identity highlights how the same attributes can be positioned differently to create unique experiences.

Overall, the class was incredibly insightful, offering a deep dive into the nuances of branding and its emotional impact on consumers. The visit to Akasa Air Learning Academy not only gave me practical exposure to how brands operate but also provided a memorable learning experience that brought theoretical concepts to life. I left feeling more connected to the world of brand marketing, equipped with new perspectives to apply in future discussions and real-world scenarios.

Author: Myrah Sahni (myrah.sahni_ug2023@ashoka.edu.in)

51���

Igniting Ashoka’s Entrepreneurial Spirit with Startup Ashoka & Entrepreneurship Haat 2024

On September 27th and 28th, the Info Edge Centre for Entrepreneurship and the Entrepreneurship club organized “Startup Ashoka," a two-day entrepreneurial extravaganza, with the sponsorship of The Arc and Bauli. The event brought together students with a shared vision of turning innovative ideas into impactful startups. Over the course of 48 hours, students pitched, ideated, and refined their business concepts with the guidance of seasoned mentors, culminating in a final presentation that showcased their entrepreneurial prowess.

The event kicked off on the morning of the 27th with the Entrepreneurship Haat, a bustling marketplace where 20 Ashokan Entrepreneurs showcased and sold items they had produced over the 2 days. This segment not only highlighted the creative talents of the students but also set a vibrant tone for the two-day event. Later in the evening Startup Ashoka, which had attracted 140 students-participants, would kick off.

In the evening, participants and mentors gathered in the Admin Multi-Purpose Hall (MPH). These mentors, industry professionals with extensive experience, were instrumental in guiding the students through the rigorous ideation and pitching process. The opening session began with the Keynote Speech by Dilnawaz Khan (Founder, Codesign Labs & Power Deck), setting the stage for students to make spontaneous pitches and present their startup ideas. Following these initial pitches, participants grouped themselves into teams based on their interests and ideas, forming a total of 26 teams that would work together throughout the night.

The mentors’ role went beyond traditional advice; they actively collaborated with each team, helping students refine and hone their ideas, preparing them for the final pitch the next day. Following this session, participants and the mentors were treated to a biryani dinner sponsored by “The Paul's Biryani,” a cloud kitchen startup founded by Sudhakar Paul. Known for winning the "Debutant Cloud Kitchen of the Year" award in 2024. Paul's Biryani brought a delicious and well-earned dinner break, which recharged participants for the intense night ahead. After an hour of coaching, the mentors were felicitated for their dedication and invaluable contributions to the students’ journeys.

The participants, relying on Red Bull cans, Bauli’s croissants & Maggi, delved into an intense overnight ideation session. From brainstorming unique selling points to finalizing financial models, participants worked tirelessly until dawn, determined to craft a winning pitch. This all-night preparation became a test of endurance, teamwork, and dedication, with teams wrapping up around 5am for a brief rest.

Subsequently, participants returned for the second day at 11am, to be energized by a Panel Discussion featuring the jury of the competition: Rajive Gulati (Former Head: United Nations Technology Innovations Lab), Dr. Divya Rajput (CEO - JSS STEP), Ayush Singhal (Founder & CEO, Codemate.ai), and Aditi Shrivastava (Co-Founder, The Arc). These experts shared their insights into the startup ecosystem, offering students valuable perspectives on innovation, resilience, and the road to successful entrepreneurship.

Out of the 26 initial teams, only the top 12 qualified for the final round, where they got to pitch to the panel of judges. Each team’s pitch was scrutinized on various parameters, including originality, feasibility, and potential impact. The judging panel was impressed by the passion and creativity displayed by the participants, making the decision challenging.

After an intense round of pitches, the results were finally announced. "Curable" emerged as the first-place winner, securing a grant worth ₹20,000. Curable’s innovative platform connects individuals from high-cost healthcare regions to affordable, quality medical services in India, addressing the critical issue of exorbitant healthcare expenses. The second-place position went to "Rentique," awarded ₹15,000. Rentique offers premium, eco-friendly fashion rentals enhanced with AI-driven personalization, allowing users to access sustainable and stylish clothing tailored to their preferences. "Lovsy" claimed third place with a grant of ₹10,000, presenting artisanal Nepali Hog Plum candies that combine traditional flavors with modern confectionery techniques.

In addition to these top honors, a special “People’s Choice Award” was determined by audience votes. This category resulted in a tie between "Orvilla" and "Immerse," each receiving ₹5,000 in grant money as a recognition of their popularity and potential. Orvilla offers luxury liquor-infused chocolates, merging the indulgence of fine chocolates with the sophistication of premium liquors, catering to discerning palates. Immerse, on the other hand, provides immersive and interactive experiences for urban dwellers and social explorers, creating unique environments that foster community and engagement.

The event concluded with the felicitation of the honorary judges and a final speech by Prabal Agarwal, the President of the Entrepreneurship Club. Prabal expressed his gratitude to all mentors, judges, participants, and sponsors who contributed to making "Startup Ashoka" a memorable success. He emphasized the importance of fostering a spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship among students, noting that events like these are essential stepping stones for aspiring entrepreneurs.

"Startup Ashoka" was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and resilience. As participants left the venue, they carried with them not only prize money but valuable experiences and lessons that would undoubtedly shape their future endeavors. The event underscored 51���’s commitment to nurturing future leaders and changemakers, inspiring all who participated to continue pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams.

Author: Yash Todi (yash.todi_ug2024@ashoka.edu.in), a Member of the Entrepreneurship Club

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51���’s Professor Projit Bihari Mukharji Awarded 2024 Pfizer Award for Groundbreaking Book “Brown Skins, White Coats: Race Science in India, 1920–66”

51��� is proud to share that Professor Projit Bihari Mukharji, a distinguished historian and Head of the History Department which is part of the Harish and Bina Shah School of Humanities (HBSSoH) at the University, has been honored with the 2024 Pfizer Award for his acclaimed book, “Brown Skins, White Coats: Race Science in India, 1920–66”. The award, presented by the History of Science Society, recognizes Mukharji’s pioneering research that uncovers the complex intersections of race, science, colonialism and nationalism in India. Through meticulous scholarship, Mukharji’s work provides critical insights into how scientific practices were entangled with racial ideologies, reshaping our understanding of race science within a colonial context.

The Pfizer award is an annual award given by the History of Science Society (HSS) to an outstanding book on the history of science which has made a significant contribution to the understanding of the history of science. Professor Mukharji’s book, which explores the intersection of colonialism, scientific practices, and the development of healthcare systems in South Asia, has received widespread critical acclaim for its depth, originality, and exploration of historical narratives in genetic studies.

Professor Mukharji's award-winning book provides a path-breaking contribution to the discussion of race in postcolonial societies. It offers a richly detailed and largely overlooked history of the mobilization of racial thinking and of race science in anticolonial movements and postcolonial nationalism.

In this stirring book, Projit Bihari Mukharji illustrates how India appropriated and repurposed race science to its own ends and argues that these appropriations need to be understood within the national and regional contexts of postcolonial nation-making—not merely as footnotes to a Western history of “normal science.”

On receiving the Pfizer award, Professor Projit Bihari Mukharji said, “I am delighted beyond words to receive the Pfizer Award, as it marks the first time in 66 years that the prize has gone to a book on India. This recognition not only honors my work but also acknowledges the importance of examining such overlooked histories of medical knowledge and practice. I am thrilled that my work has significantly contributed to a broader understanding of global medical history.”

“We are thrilled to congratulate Professor Mukharji on receiving this prestigious recognition,” said Prof. Somak Raychaudhuri, Vice Chancellor of 51���. “His work not only advances the field of history but also sheds light on the deeply interwoven legacies of colonialism and medicine, providing essential perspectives on the subject. This award is a testament to his dedication to scholarship and his ability to engage with complex historical questions in a truly impactful way.”

Projit Bihari’s research largely focuses on the histories of science and medicine in modern South Asia. He is also the author of Nationalizing the Body: The Medical Market, Print and Daktari Medicine (London, 2009), Doctoring Traditions: Ayurveda, Small Technologies and Braided Sciences (Chicago, 2016) and, most recently, Brown Skins, White Coats: Race Science in India, 1920-66 (Chicago, 2022). His articles have appeared in journals such as IESHR, JAS, CSSH, History of Science, Osiris, Technology & Culture, Bulletin of the History of Medicine, etc.

Published by the University of Chicago Press, Professor Mukharji's Brown Skins, White Coats has been reviewed by leading experts, authors and academic platforms such as Oxford University’s Social History of Medicine; Journal of the History of Biology; Partha Chatterjee, Columbia University; Keith Wailoo, Princeton University, Elise K. Burton, University of Toronto, amongst others.

The Harish and Bina Shah School of Humanities (HBSSoH) at 51��� is supported by the generous contribution of the Harish & Bina Shah Foundation and focuses on driving teaching and research excellence in the Humanities disciplines (including Languages, Literature, History and Philosophy) as well as supporting interdisciplinary research initiatives in the Social and Natural Sciences at the University.

About the History of Science Society (HSS):
The History of Science Society is the world’s largest society dedicated to understanding science, technology, medicine, and their interactions with society in their historical context. Founded in 1924, it is the oldest such society. Through its publications and other activities, the Society provides scholars, decision makers and the public with historical perspectives on science, policy, and the potentials, achievements, and the limitations of basic and applied science. The Pfizer Award, one of the Society's most prestigious honors, recognizes exceptional scholarship in the history of medicine and is awarded annually to a work that has made significant contributions to the understanding of genetic history.

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Sustainability and the Future of Luxury: My Experience at the Mercedes Benz Sustainability Dialogue

In the heart of India’s capital, Delhi, I recently attended the Mercedes Benz Sustainability Dialogue, an event that set the stage for thought-provoking discussions on sustainability, technology, and the future of mobility. As someone deeply interested in how industries can integrate sustainable practices, this event was both timely and relevant. It wasn't just a corporate event; it was a convergence of industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators, united by a shared vision for a more sustainable future. 

The core theme that resonated throughout the event was: “There is no luxury without sustainability.” A simple yet powerful statement that is driving the direction of luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz as they embrace sustainability at the heart of their operations. This idea is not just a slogan—it’s a commitment that was clearly demonstrated through every panel discussion and keynote address.

Global Sustainability Trends and Their Impact on India’s Automotive Industry 

The opening session of the event, titled “Leaders’ Insights: Global Sustainability Trends and their Impact on the Indian Automotive Industry”, set a strong tone for the day. The keynote speaker, Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa and former CEO of NITI Aayog, shared his perspective on how India's rapidly growing urbanization is pushing the country toward significant environmental challenges. 

One of the most striking statistics he shared was how India will effectively create a Chicago-sized urban area every four years due to rapid urbanization. This emphasized the scale of the problem India faces when it comes to environmental impact. His remarks underscored that if we don’t act quickly, the environmental toll could be irreversible. 

Kant’s insights into the per capita car penetration—just 24 cars per 1,000 people, compared to the triple digits in developed countries—reinforced the idea that India’s shift towards electromobility is not just a necessity but an opportunity. With the Indian automotive sector currently responsible for 20% of greenhouse gas emissions, the country’s path to decarbonization will largely depend on how quickly we can transition to electric vehicles (EVs). Kant’s emphasis on renewable energy as a catalyst for this transition was particularly inspiring, especially considering that India is one of the few countries on track to meet its Paris Agreement climate goals ahead of schedule. 

This opening session set the stage for the rest of the day’s discussions, showing how sustainability is no longer an option—it’s an imperative for businesses and governments alike. 

Traffic Safety: A Crucial Element in Sustainable Mobility 

The next panel, “Traffic Safety – Current Perspectives and Future Trends for Safe Roads in India,” was particularly insightful. Christoph Von Hugo, Head of Driver Assistance and Automated Driving at Mercedes-Benz AG, brought forward some fascinating points about how advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and automation can reduce traffic accidents and fatalities. 

The conversation revolved around the need for sustainable mobility solutions that don’t just focus on reducing emissions but also on improving safety standards. As Santosh Iyer, Managing Director & CEO of Mercedes-Benz India, pointed out during the panel, sustainability isn't just about the materials used or the emissions produced; it's about creating a holistic, safe, and responsible transportation ecosystem. 

A major takeaway from this discussion was how automated driving technologies can drastically reduce human error, which is the leading cause of accidents. The panelists highlighted that artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning could play crucial roles in creating safer road environments, ensuring that the future of mobility isn't just greener but also safer. 

Digital Trust: Artificial Intelligence and Data Responsibility 

One of the most forward-looking panels of the day was the session on “Digital Trust – Artificial Intelligence and Data Responsibility.” With increasing digitization, the role of AI in shaping the future of mobility cannot be overstated. The conversation led by Vinayak Godse, CEO of the Data Security

Council of India, delved into how AI is transforming the automotive industry, from autonomous vehicles to predictive maintenance. 

What struck me was how the panelists balanced their enthusiasm for technological advancements with a deep awareness of the ethical considerations involved. Alok B. Lall, Chief Operating Officer at Microsoft India, touched on the importance of data privacy and the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect consumers in an increasingly connected world. AI has the potential to revolutionize the way we drive, but with that power comes the responsibility to ensure that it’s used ethically and transparently. 

Networking with Industry Leaders 

Beyond the thought-provoking panel discussions, one of the most enriching aspects of the event was the opportunity to network with industry leaders and key stakeholders. Conversations with people like Renata Jungo Brüngger, a Member of the Board of Management at Mercedes-Benz Group AG, allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of how luxury brands are navigating their sustainability journeys. 

Renata’s insights on how Mercedes-Benz integrates sustainability at the core of its business were particularly enlightening. She emphasized that sustainability isn’t just about product innovation; it’s about corporate governance, transparency, and accountability. These conversations reinforced my belief that luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz are not just adopting sustainability as a trend, but as a core business strategy. 

During the breaks, I had the chance to exchange ideas with Manu Saale, Managing Director & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India, and other professionals working at the intersection of automotive engineering and sustainability. These discussions expanded my perspective on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in creating sustainable mobility solutions.

The Road Ahead: Luxury and Sustainability 

The event concluded with a clear message: Sustainability is the future of luxury, and the automotive industry must lead the way. Mercedes-Benz is not just talking about this shift; they are actively working on it, with their focus on expanding their Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) portfolio. 

The announcement of the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV, their first-ever electric Maybach, exemplified how luxury can meet sustainability without compromise. The company's commitment to serving every customer segment, from the sporty EQA to the top-of-the-line Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV, shows that the future of luxury is inclusive, sustainable, and forward-looking. 

As the event wrapped up, I left with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism. The future of mobility is bright, but it will require collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to sustainability from all stakeholders. 

Conclusion 

Attending the Mercedes Benz Sustainability Dialogue was a transformative experience. The event highlighted that sustainability is not a separate agenda—it’s the very foundation on which the future of the automotive industry must be built. From traffic safety to AI and data responsibility, the discussions throughout the day underscored the importance of creating a sustainable, safe, and ethical future for mobility. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to attend this event, which was made possible through the support of the Centre for Entrepreneurship (CfE) at 51���. CfE not only shared this invaluable opportunity with us students but also ensured that all the logistics and management were handled seamlessly, allowing us to focus entirely on learning and networking. Their facilitation played a crucial role in making this experience both enriching and effortless, and I look forward to applying the insights I gained in my future endeavors.

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Ashoka students and alums secure top scholarships across graduate schools

In 2023-24, over 150 students were admitted to top universities across the world for postgraduate studies. The Office of Post Graduate Studies worked with many of them for their admissions and scholarships from crème de la crème institutions including Harvard University, University of Oxford, London School of Economics, Yale University, University of Cambridge, University of Chicago, HEC Paris, Columbia University, and several others. We had students selected across academic domains including but not limited to Public Policy, Integrated Immunology, Economics, Business Analytics, and Psychology etc.

Anjali Madangarli, a student of Physics at 51���, has been awarded the prestigious Inlaks Scholarship to pursue her Master's degree at Leiden University, Netherlands. With a keen interest in physics, she will be embarking on an MSc Physics program, focusing on research in the field of cosmology. This scholarship will help her delve deeper into her passion for understanding the universe, and contribute to her dream of becoming a leading researcher in the field.

-Anjali Madangarli, ASP’24

Aditya Tiwari, majoring in Sociology and Anthropology, has been honoured with the Felix Scholarship. He will be pursuing an MSc in Social Anthropology at the University of Oxford. The Felix Scholarship is awarded to exceptional students from developing countries, and Aditya's commitment to understanding social structures and advocating for marginalized communities makes him a perfect candidate for this honour. His studies at Oxford will further his work in social justice and anthropology.

-Aditya Tiwari, ASP’24

Sanjna Kartik was awarded the Felix Scholarship for their graduate admission to the University of Oxford in Integrated Immunology. Her academic excellence, impeccable research work and dedication to understanding social issues through Biology got her admission to her dream school along with a 100% Felix scholarship funding

-Sanjna Kartik, ASP'24

Misha Singh, who majored in Advanced Biology at 51���, was awarded the Erasmus Mundus Partner Country Scholarship to pursue a Master’s in Neuroscience. She will be continuing her studies at Erasmus University, with a focus on interdisciplinary research in the field of Neuroscience. This scholarship will support her journey towards pursuing scientific research and global collaboration.

-Misha Singh, ASP'24

Samyukt Sriram, who majored in Economics at 51���, has been honored with the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship to pursue an MSc in Data Science for Business at HEC Paris. His dedication to economics and his passion for data-driven business strategies have earned him this recognition. This scholarship will support his goal of becoming a leader in data science and business innovation.

-Samyukt Sriram, ASP'24

Nene Onyedi Ibezim, an international student at Ashoka was selected to pursue a Masters in Education at the University of Pennsylvania. Their outstanding dedication towards working for education-based non-profits in India and Nigeria earned them the Penn-UNESCO Fellowships for Developing Country Scholars. This scholarship will support their academic journey as they further specialize in creating education opportunities accessible to all.

-Nene Onyedi Ibezim, YIF ‘24

In only the second year of our partnership with the Havells family scholarship, Saina Suri, from the Economics and Finance department has been awarded the Havells Scholarship. She will be pursuing her Master of Science in Management at Wake Forest University. Her drive to explore finance and management, along with her academic excellence in economics, has earned her this scholarship, and she looks forward to continuing her journey towards becoming a business leader.

-Saina Suri, ASP'24

Alumni Section

Additionally, three of our alumni from the undergraduate program and the Young India Fellowship were awarded some of the most coveted full-ride scholarships. Kiran Sahani (ASP 23) received the McAll MacBain Scholarship to study Educational Leadership at McGill University. Fatima Khan (YIF 2018) is headed to study investigative journalism at Columbia University, having been awarded the Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarship and Clinton Manoti, ASP’ 21 was awarded the Chevening Scholarship and will be joining the University of Aberdeen to pursue a graduate program in Data Science

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Iconic Filmmaker Sai Paranjpye Entrusts Personal Archives to 51���’s Archives of Contemporary India

Renowned filmmaker and theater person, Sai Paranjpye has donated her collection of original, handwritten drafts and screenplays of films, telefilms, teleplays, and stage plays in Marathi, Hindi, and English to 51���’s Archives of Contemporary India. The collection includes drafts and screenplays of the director’s celebrated films like Sparsh (1980), Chashme Buddoor (1982), Katha (1983), Disha (1992), Papeeha (1993), and Saaz (1997), among others. Being a part of 51���’s Archives of Contemporary India, the director’s papers will be available to researchers and scholars looking to gain valuable insights into her works and their impact on Indian cinema.

In addition, the collection also contains her books such as Aal Bel, Sakkhe Sezari, Manjhe Khel Mandu De, Jaswandi, etc. and children’s plays like Nana Phadnavis, Jaducha Shankh, Haravalelya Khellyanche Rajya, Shepticha Shap, Patte Nagrit. With this remarkable contribution, Sai Paranjpye becomes the first filmmaker to have donated her personal collection to 51���’s Archives of Contemporary India, joining the ranks of esteemed researchers, scholars, and professors whose papers are already part of the archives.

Providing rich insights into Paranjpye’s evolution as a director and screenwriter, the papers trace the development of her ideas over time and will be an invaluable resource for researchers and scholars studying film history and Indian cinema and its evolution over time.

Prof. Somak Raychaudhury, Vice-Chancellor of 51���, said, “It is a great honour to have Sai Paranjpye's collection as part of our Archives of Contemporary India. Her work represents a pivotal chapter in Indian cinema, and having access to her personal papers will allow future generations of scholars to study and appreciate her profound impact on storytelling and cinema.”

To celebrate this significant addition to the archives, 51��� hosted a special event on October 17, 2024 that brought together students, faculty, and cinema enthusiasts to honor Sai Paranjpye’s extraordinary contributions to Indian filmmaking. The event featured a lively interactive session with Paranjpye, where she shared her journey, creative inspirations, and insights into her remarkable career. The conversation offered the audience a unique glimpse into her storytelling techniques and perspectives on the evolution of Indian cinema.

The event also featured the screening of Ābhāḷālā Gavasni (The Sky is the Limit), a Marathi film with subtitles in English. The movie is based on a unique play/film envisioned by Sai Paranjpye to mark the 80th birthday of the renowned astrophysicist Prof. Jayant Vishnu Narlikar in 2018. The celebration concluded with the screening of Disha (The Immigrants, 1990), one of Paranjpye's award-winning films that explores the challenges faced by rural migrants in adapting to urban life. The film’s powerful narrative and thought-provoking themes resonate strongly with the attendees, highlighting Paranjpye's commitment to addressing social issues through her cinematic works.

Speaking on donating her collection of original scripts to 51���'s Archives of Contemporary India, she added, "When 51���’s Archives of Contemporary India requested the manuscripts, I looked at it as an opportunity. What greater honor than to be represented in this prestigious university's archives, to have one's work so beautifully cataloged? It’s an unimaginable opportunity for me—truly my honor. To be cataloged alongside icons like Girish Karnad, Dilip Padgaonkar, and Suresh Kohli is a privilege beyond words. It’s wonderful to join that list."

As the first major woman filmmaker of contemporary India, Sai Paranjpye is celebrated for her contributions to cinema and theatre with films like Chashme Buddoor (1981) and Sparsh (1980). Known for her unique blend of humor, social insight, and empathy, her work spans various genres, addressing complex themes with simplicity and wit. Over her illustrious career, Paranjpye has received many accolades including four National Film Awards and two Filmfare Awards, and in recognition of her contribution to Indian cinema, she was also honored with the Padma Bhushan by the Government of India in 2006.

While giving advice to budding filmmakers, Sai Paranjpye said, "My advice to students would be to study the life around them and watch good films, both from India and abroad, as it provides a valuable learning experience."

Sai Paranjpye’s collection, now part of the Archives of Contemporary India, includes original drafts of both released and unreleased works, providing a comprehensive view of her creative evolution. The collection is set to become an invaluable resource for researchers, scholars, and enthusiasts of film history, and will offer a learning platform for budding filmmakers to master the essential skills of filmmaking, including direction, screenplay, storyboarding, and beyond.

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Sanah Agrawal on Her Shooting Journey and Reconnecting with the Sport at Ashoka

Can you walk us through how you discovered your passion for shooting and how your journey in the sport began?

I’m Sanah Agrawal, currently an ASP '25. I graduated with a major in History and International Relations, and I’m writing a thesis in IR while pursuing a minor in Psychology. My journey with shooting began about 10 years ago. At the time, my parents and I had almost given up on finding a sport I would stick with. In my school, playing a sport every day was compulsory, so one hot evening, I decided to try shooting since it was one of the few indoor sports with fans. As they say, the rest is history—at least for a while. I connected with the sport in a way I never thought I would with any other sport. For the longest time, I didn’t even think about scores or performance. It was just something I enjoyed doing for myself. Like any sport, it gave me discipline and stability, becoming an anchor in my life. Shooting is something deeply personal to me, almost introspective, teaching me a lot about myself.

I didn’t take it seriously until 10th grade, when I qualified for nationals and started competing in the Indian team trials, eventually participating in the World Championships. It wasn’t until I was on the flight to the Czech Republic that I realized I needed to focus on this professionally. However, life intervened—COVID struck, my practices took a hit, my performance declined, and I struggled with the sport I had once excelled at. Shooting started to feel more like a burden, and it took me a while to reconnect with it after the pandemic.

How has your experience at Ashoka influenced your approach to shooting, both as a hobby and as part of a community?

After the COVID pandemic, I forced myself back into the sport, but the connection wasn’t the same. This is where Ashoka played a crucial role. The shooting range being right on campus meant I didn’t have to put in much effort—it became a regular part of my day, like before. Being at Ashoka helped me reconnect with the sport on more of a hobbyist level, and I rediscovered my love for it.

A big part of this reconnection was the sense of community we built here. Being part of a team, playing with people who care about shooting as much as I do, made me realize how much I truly love the sport. It helped me gain perspective on why I shoot and allowed me to rediscover the part of myself I thought I had lost during the pandemic.

What does leading the shooting squad mean to you?

To me, being a captain means sharing a part of myself that I love and enjoy with others, fostering a community, and simply playing sports. Many people still think sports are for men, and if my leadership can challenge that notion even slightly, it feels great. When I see women coming to the range, seeing me there, and realizing they too can pick up a rifle and hold it for hours, that’s empowering.

For me, leadership isn’t about making decisions or enforcing rules. It’s about collectively deciding how we want to manage our space, respecting each other, and building friendships. Being a captain means creating a community of like-minded people who care about sports and shooting as much as I do

With both academics and sports being equally demanding, how do you strike a balance between the two and manage your time effectively?

Balancing academics and sports is something you never fully figure out—the scales are always tipping more toward one side or the other. For me, compartmentalizing works best. When I’m in an academic space, like the library, I don’t think about shooting. When I’m at the range or working on something sports-related, I don’t think about academics. Having designated spaces and time for each activity helps a lot.

I’m also fortunate to have a great team. They’re understanding, they step up when needed, and they help me delegate responsibilities when something else requires more of my attention.

Looking ahead, what are your goals for both yourself and for the Ashoka shooting team?

For the longest time, Ashoka didn’t have a shooting team, but last year we finally built one. Personally, my goal is to always remember why I shoot—it’s for me and no one else. Hopefully, one day, I can revisit the professional dreams I left behind.

For the team at Ashoka, my aim is to continue growing the community. Of course, I want us to compete and bring laurels to the institute, but more importantly, I want more people to try shooting and feel as passionate about it as we do. I also hope to help more people, both on and off the team, go professional and pursue shooting beyond Ashoka, not just as a hobby. Ultimately, I’d love for us to compete in more recognized competitions and, hopefully, one day win the All India University Championship.

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Vanshika’s Journey in Sports: From Skating to Badminton Captain

Can you share a bit about yourself and your journey in sports?

I am currently in my third year, majoring in Economics and Finance. My journey in sports began in Grade 2 when I took up skating, which eventually led me to inline roller hockey. I had the honor of representing my district at Haryana state level twice. Alongside skating, I casually started playing badminton after school to stay active, but it wasn’t until university that I truly began pursuing it seriously. In Spring 2023, I became part of the women’s badminton team at Ashoka, and since then, I’ve created some amazing memories on the court. I’m now proud to lead the team as captain.

How has being involved in sports influenced your personal growth?

I'm confident that playing sports has taught me life values I wouldn’t have gained otherwise. I’ve become much more disciplined, dedicated, and patient. Both skating and badminton have shaped the person I am today, and I’ve applied these strengths both on and off the field.

What does being a captain mean to you, and how do you approach leading your team?

Being a captain comes with a lot of responsibilities that you might not otherwise have to manage. Fortunately, having prior experience in leadership roles made the transition from squad member to captain smoother for me. I’m honored to lead such an incredible team. My approach isn’t something entirely new—it's inspired by the captains who came before me, and I feel they've already set a high standard. My goal is to reach that bar together with the team. For me, passion for the sport and building a strong bond with everyone on the court are key.

How do you balance academics with your responsibilities as a captain and athlete?

As long as you understand your commitment and can prioritize your responsibilities, managing everything isn’t too difficult. Of course, there are days when it feels overwhelming, but most of the time, your dedication to both academics and the sport keeps you motivated. Plus, knowing you can rely on your team when you can’t make it to the court builds a sense of trust that really helps.

What are your future aspirations for yourself and the team?

My future aspirations for the team are to keep pushing us to become the best versions of ourselves. We all work incredibly hard on the court, and I hope that effort pays off in tournaments. But above all, I’m committed to ensuring that we always give our best to the sport and represent the university with pride. Personally, I hope to achieve our team’s goals and be not just a strong leader, but also a friend to everyone. I’m excited to see what we can accomplish together and how we continue to grow as a team.

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From Cricket Dreams to Tennis Triumphs: A Journey of Passion, Leadership, and Growth

Can you tell us about your early days in sports and how your journey has evolved over time?

It all began on a warm summer night in 2011 when I, like many others, was glued to the TV screen, watching as Dhoni’s iconic six won India the World Cup. That moment sparked my love for cricket, and I was determined to be a part of India’s “Elite 11.” But life had other plans. My younger sister, a tennis enthusiast, convinced me to give tennis a try, and while I initially resisted, I found something in the sport that drew me in more than cricket ever had. I eventually made the tough decision to leave cricket and fully focus on tennis.

From there, my journey took off. I trained in several centers in Chandigarh, worked my way up to being ranked #1 in the state, #19 in India, and #1200 in the world in the U-18 category. I represented India as a ballkid at the 2019 Australian Open and captained the U-17 tennis team at the SGFI Games. However, a severe ankle injury derailed my career, leading me to step away from pursuing tennis professionally. Still, my passion for the sport remained, and I continue to play at 51���.

How has being part of 51���'s sports community influenced your personal and athletic growth?

Ashoka has given me an incredible platform to push myself both athletically and personally. The combination of top-tier sporting facilities and excellent academic opportunities has made my experience here truly rewarding. Playing for the institution has helped me focus on the mental side of my game, an area I struggled with during my U-18 days.

At Ashoka, I’ve learned to manage pressure better, both on and off the court, becoming a more mature and composed player. My time here has also helped me develop essential life skills like resilience, communication, and teamwork, all of which I plan to bring into my role as a leader.

As a squad leader, how do you view your leadership role and what strategies do you use to guide your team?

Having been the Vice-Captain for the past couple of years, I’ve had the opportunity to learn from our previous captain, coaches, and teammates. Now, stepping into the captain’s role, I feel a mix of excitement and nerves. Leadership, for me, is about ensuring every player has the space to grow individually, which in turn benefits the team as a whole.

I look up to sports icons like M.S. Dhoni and Virat Kohli, who have been able to bring out the best in their teammates. My goal as captain is to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable enough to voice their concerns, and where we can all learn from each other and improve together.

How do you balance the academic demands at Ashoka with your responsibilities as an athlete and team leader?

Balancing tennis, academics, and other activities has been something I’ve grown accustomed to over the years. It all comes down to time management and prioritization. During tournaments, tennis and gym sessions take priority, but when exams roll around, you’ll find me spending long hours in the library. On regular days, I try to make every second count by staying disciplined and, most importantly, enjoying the process.

Whether it’s playing tennis, studying, or even learning guitar, I strive to do justice to my potential by giving my best in every activity I pursue.

What are your long-term goals for yourself and the tennis team at Ashoka?

The Men’s Tennis Team at Ashoka has been incredibly successful, and as captain, my goal is to continue that winning streak and take our team to even greater heights. We’ll be competing in several tournaments this year, and my focus is on key events like the North Zone Tennis Championship, Magnus (hosted by Jindal), and our very own Agneepath. Our goal is simple: to win.

Personally, I want to participate in as many tournaments as possible while working on my strength and agility. I’m looking forward to a successful season with the team and can’t wait to see what we accomplish together.

List of Achievements for 51��� Men's Tennis Team:

BML Munjal University 2022 - Winners

LNMIIT, Jaipur 2023 - Winners

Agneepath 2023 - Winners

Magnus (O.P. Jindal University) 2023 - Winners

Bennett University 2023 - Winners

Shiv Nadar University 2023 - Winners

BITS Pilani 2023 - Winners

Bennett University 2024 - Third Place

Magnus (O.P. Jindal University) - Runners up

IIT Roorkee - Winners

Personal Awards:

MVP - BITS Pilani 2023

MVP - Shiv Nadar University 2023

MVP - IIT Roorkee 2024

Best Tennis Player 2023 - Ashoka Annual Awards

Best Tennis Player 2024 - Ashoka Annual Awards

Outstanding Athlete of the Year 2024 - Ashoka Annual Awards

51���

In Conversation with Mehek Anand, Squash Captain of 51���

Could you tell us about your journey in sports?

There is nothing more thrilling than sport for me. The initial adrenaline rush in my pounding heart, the flame of competitiveness sparked within me, and the rewarding cooldown that brings a palpable sense of self-growth. The feeling is addictive and it pushes me to dabble in every new sport I have access to.

I’ve engaged in sports like squash, badminton, table tennis, football, basketball, swimming, tennis, roller skating, hockey, and cycling - basically all the major sports there are (with the first half a dozen played more seriously and frequently). After trying my hand at all these, I found my haven in squash and took it up competitively, playing in an All-India association (SRFI). Joining a training academy instilled discipline, regimen, sportsmanship, fieriness in my game. Playing tournaments both individually and in a team taught me about leadership and the importance of keeping composure. Around the time of the pandemic, I was in the top 20 rank across India in girls in my age category.

How has participating in sports at Ashoka contributed to your personal growth?

Sports at Ashoka has been a major avenue for me to create camaraderie and friendship across batches. The culture is very open and inviting to all kinds of players, regardless of skill level. I love seeing new squash players struggle and then find their footing on the court, and I especially love playing a part in helping them improve. Conversely, in sports like football or table tennis, I enjoy feeling vulnerable, letting down my guard, and letting superior players guide me. Nothing feels better than a challenge and pushing myself toward development.

What does leadership in sports mean to you, and how do you approach fostering teamwork among your players?

It’s an extremely fulfilling and gratifying feeling to be able to lead a sports team. A major issue is the lack of confidence girls feel while playing squash, and I believe practicing with drills that target their problem areas will lead to an improvement. I wish to inculcate more discipline and routine in training sessions—by combining games, drills, and fitness sessions. Morale of the team must also be kept high, and player bonding is crucial, so I wish to bring a feeling of sisterhood and community through quality time spent off-court too.

What are your future goals for yourself and your team at Ashoka?

My goal is to see a marked difference in the quality of women’s squash at Ashoka and to make the sport more exciting and attractive to the student body. Each event and game should be so thrilling that passersby would unknowingly stop in their tracks and watch the rally. I also wish to bring home more trophies to add to the collection on the MPH shelves.

51���

51��� calls for Inclusive Higher Education at 2nd Annual Conclave

51���, India’s premier interdisciplinary higher education and research institution today successfully concluded its second edition of “Building Foundations for Inclusive Higher Education” conclave at the India Habitat Center (IHC). The event brought together experts from leading universities, institutions, and NGOs from across India to advance conversations on creating more inclusive higher education systems for students with disabilities. Organised by 51���’s Office of Learning Support (OLS), the event was built on the discussions held from last year’s inaugural conclave to explore critical areas that need attention to ensure equal access to education for all.

A report titled "Access to Higher Education: An Unresolved Challenge for Students with Disabilities," was unveiled by Ms. Reena Gupta, Director of the Office of Learning Support (OLS) at 51���, and Ms. Neha Trivedi, Founder of Spandan. The report examines the barriers students with disabilities face and offers detailed recommendations to Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) on how to address these issues.

The event saw participation from over 100 key stakeholders in government, academia, and industry, including Smt. Rina Sonowal Kouli, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Higher Education, Dr. Pankaj Mittal, Secretary, Association of Indian University; Dr. Jagdish Arora, Advisor, National Board of Accreditation; Dr. R.K. Chadha, Ex-Additional Secretary at Parliament of India, Lok Sabha; Ms. Ipsita Mitra, Deputy Secretary, Policy, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities & Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Ms. Neha Trivedi, Founder of Spandan: Inclusion and Accessibility Consultancy Services; Dr. Homiyar Mobedji, Disability Expert, Program Management - Asia & Africa, Benetech and Dr. Piyush Chanana, Head, National Centre for Assistive Health Technologies (NCAHT) at IIT Delhi amongst others.
This year’s conclave builds on the foundations laid by the inaugural event in 2023 which featured conversations and a white paper on the “Future of Disability Inclusion in Higher Education".

The Conclave featured four dedicated Idea Labs that explored critical themes, including building support structures and reasonable accommodation frameworks at HEIs, strengthening accessible library systems and educational content accessibility, facilitating access to assistive technology for students in higher education, and empowering faculty as agents of inclusive teaching. These sessions provided a comprehensive view of the challenges, addressing everything from policy frameworks to institutional support systems.

In his welcome address, Prof. Somak Raychaudhury, Vice-Chancellor of 51���, reiterated the institution's commitment to making higher education accessible and added, “At 51���, we believe that true excellence in education can only be achieved when it is accessible to all. This initiative represents our dedication to fostering an inclusive environment where students with disabilities can thrive. Today’s discussions mark another step toward creating a truly democratic higher education system, which will play a critical role in India’s overall success.”

Dr. Pankaj Mittal, Secretary of the Association of Indian Universities addressed the concern of low participation of differently abled in India’s higher education system and said “The four key reasons for low participation are inadequate infrastructure in the higher education system, lack of support services like Ashoka’s Office of Learning Support (OLS), stigma attached to persons with disabilities and financial constraints. Out of which, the foremost reason is the stigma, and the mindset towards disability needs to be changed.”

Dr. R.K. Chadha, former Additional Secretary of the Parliament of India (Lok Sabha), offered recommendations to enhance the accessibility of persons with disabilities and integrate them more effectively into the mainstream. He proposed that 10-15% of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) budget be allocated to initiatives supporting persons with disabilities, alongside the provision of disability pensions. For education sector, Dr. Chadha recommended proper implementation of UGC and AICTE norms and emphasised that greater weight should be given to a university’s social standards when assessing accreditation.

In her remarks, Mrs Rina Sonowal Kouli, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Higher Education said, “As part of the mandate of the National Education Policy, we also support disadvantaged groups including those with invisible disabilities like mental health. The ministry has initiated a pilot scheme where we are sensitising our faculty to understand what specific learning disability is all about and how the institutions should reach out to students to understand their requirements. Apart from initiatives to address disability challenges, we are also working on mental health capacity building programmes to build resilience in students.”

“Conclave 2.0 has highlighted the importance of collaborative action across the education and policy sectors. By building on the frameworks discussed today, we will continue to create collective action plans to foster a truly inclusive learning ecosystem in higher education,” Ms. Reena Gupta commented.

51��� remains committed to working closely with its partners and stakeholders to turn these discussions into actionable strategies for inclusive education. The university has plans for future engagements, policy advocacy, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at fostering a more inclusive academic environment in India.

51���

51��� Celebrates SDG Flag Day: A Step Towards Global Sustainability

On 25th September 2024, 51���’s campus buzzed with excitement as the Office of Sustainability hosted the SDG Expo, marking the UN SDG Flag Day. The event, which highlighted the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), brought together the university’s academic community, student-led initiatives, offices, and external partners to showcase their collaborative efforts toward a sustainable future.

The SDG Expo was not only a celebration but also a demonstration of 51���’s commitment to global sustainable development. By aligning projects, innovations, and community efforts with the 17 SDGs, the Expo underscored Ashoka's dedication to fostering inclusivity, responsibility, and sustainability.

The event’s main attraction, the “Tree of Hope,” symbolized the revitalization of life and nature. Prof. Gautam Menon, the Director of the Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability and Dean of Research, tied the first message of hope to the dying tree followed by the community members. The positive messages hung on the dying tree infused it with their hopes and aspirations towards a sustainable future. Bringing hope and life, Prof. Somak Raychaudhury, the Vice-Chancellor of 51���, tied a green leaf, adding soil, and watering it—a symbolic gesture of hope, renewal, and the nurturing of a dying tree into a symbol of life and resilience.

Each SDG stall was informative and creatively showcased unique student initiatives and collaborations. For example, NEEV aligned its efforts with SDG 4, Quality Education, by mentoring and teaching students from the village of Asavarpur. The Rotaract Club, in alignment with SDG 1-No Poverty, highlighted its donation drives in slum areas of Delhi and Sonipat. The Project Pulp by AU SDG Soc demonstrated responsible consumption by creating stationery products from recycled materials, supporting SDG 12.

Ashoka Centre for Well-Being supported SDG 3, Good Health and Well-Being, with activities such as painting, positive note writing, and a creative initiative called "Pick a Smile," where participants could select chits from a clay pot filled with encouraging messages. Gender Equality (SDG 5) and Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8) were represented by Enactus, CLAD, and the Impact Club, which empower rural communities by creating employment opportunities. Additionally, student Vedant Nath showcased his ongoing collaboration with LooCafe to develop sustainable toilets, addressing SDG 6, Clean Water and Sanitation. These stalls not only highlighted alignment with specific SDGs but also demonstrated how Ashoka's students are driving impactful change through innovation and collaboration.

The event also featured interdisciplinary dialogues on sustainability. Research teams from the sciences, mentored by Professors Imroze Khan, Divya Karnad,Kritika Garg, Shivani Krishna,Balaji Chattopadhyay supported SDGs 13, 14, and 15, and engaged in discussions with students and faculty from economics and other fields. These conversations enabled a cross-pollination of ideas, where students from diverse disciplines offered new perspectives on how scientific research is perceived and applied in fields like economics. This interdisciplinary exchange was a key objective of the event, fostering collaboration and a deeper understanding of sustainability challenges across various domains.

Ashoka Centre for Policy, Environment, and Technology (ACPET) represented SDG 7, addressing the challenge of a context-responsive energy transition that supports sustainable development. The team led by Ekanto Gosh from the Centre for Entrepreneurship showcased their role as a creative hub for SDG 9, driving innovation and fostering entrepreneurial initiatives across the Ashoka community. Prachi Mishra, a Young India Fellow, represented Project Nilay and Safe Odisha for Her under SDG 16, advocating for a safer environment for children, transgender individuals, and women through activism and interventions. Himanshi Singh presented LiveGreen@Ashoka for SDG 17, highlighting the power of partnerships and collaborative projects to promote sustainability within and beyond 51���.

A Collective Effort for Change

The SDG Expo highlighted the contributions demonstrating the breadth of involvement across the university:

SDG 1: No Poverty - Rotaract Club
SDG 2: Zero Hunger - Channel 9
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being - Ashoka Centre for Well-Being
SDG 4: Quality Education - NEEV
SDG 5: Gender Equality - CLAD and Impact Club 51���
SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation - LooCafe
SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy - Ashoka Centre for a People-centric Energy Transition
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth - Enactus
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure - Centre for Entrepreneurship
SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities - RUHI
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities - AU SDG SOC, Ashoka Women in Finance Society (AWIFS), Environment Ministry
SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production - Centre for Social Impact and Philanthropy, Goonj (an NGO), Rotaract Club
SDG 13: Climate Action - Prof. Imroze Khan and Research Team, Department of Biology & ACCESS
SDG 14: Life Below Water - Prof. Divya Karnad’s Research Group, Department of Environmental Studies
SDG 15: Life on Land - Prof. Shivani Krishna, Prof. Balaji Chattopadhyay, and Prof. Kritika Garg & Research Group, Department of Biology and Horticulture Department
SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions - Prachi Mishra, Project Nilay, Safe Odisha for Her
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals - LiveGreen@Ashoka

Engagement, Learning, and Fun

In addition to the vibrant displays and insightful presentations, the SDG Expo was packed with interactive activities designed to engage the Ashoka community. Attendees had the chance to participate in games and challenges in each stall, winning prizes while learning about sustainability.

The Expo also provided a platform to network with various student clubs, societies and university research centres, making it an excellent opportunity for students to expand their knowledge and connect with like-minded individuals. Various organic food options, including refreshing smoothies and sweets by Channel 9, further enhanced the event.

As the day drew to a close, the excitement continued with a lucky draw, bringing a fun conclusion to a day filled with learning, networking, and action for a better future.

51���’s celebration of SDG Day marks an important step in its ongoing journey toward creating a more inclusive and sustainable world, ensuring a brighter tomorrow for all.

51���

51��� Records Highest Salary Package of INR 35 Lakhs for 2023-24

51��� witnessed strong placement outcomes for the academic year 2023-24. This year, the highest salary package offered was at INR 35 lakhs, with an average package at INR 10.7 lakhs. Of the total students placed, about 47% had received financial aid to pursue their education from the university.

In terms of sectors, about 18% of students were placed in consulting, followed by edtech/education (16%), BFSI (15%), development (14%), media & advertising (9%), FMCG & consumer goods (7%), among others. Notably, INR 20 lakh was offered as the highest package in the development sector.

Mckinsey & Company, Ernst & Young, Deloitte, Hindustan Unilever Limited, Accenture, Genpact, Flipkart, HSBC, Pidilite, Marico, TATA AIG, Axis Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Adobe and Michael Page were among the notable recruiters.

“Another excellent year of on-campus placements at Ashoka, including in a wide array of sectors, is a testament to the university’s emphasis on multi-disciplinary and inclusive education. It reflects the ability of our students who are well-equipped with 21st-century skills such as problem-solving, creativity and communication.

We hope that these young leaders continue to make their mark, and contribute meaningfully to the society and nation,” said Somak Raychaudhury, Vice Chancellor, 51���.

Speaking about preparing students for placements, Priyanka Chandhok, Vice President, Career Development Office at 51��� said, “To ensure a successful transition from campus to workplace, the university’s Career Preparatory Programme has ensured that students are provided with the right tools. This includes tailored boot camps for specific career paths, industry-specific sessions, personalised support on resumes and mock interviews, among other interventions. We also have a robust internship programme to ensure that students have an early exposure for a life beyond the campus.”

About 355 students opted for on-campus placement this year, including those in undergraduate (3rd year), Ashoka Scholar’s Programme (4th year), Young India Fellowship and post-graduate programme.

51���

Qualifying Quality in Higher Education in Kerala

Deepti Sreeram is a PhD scholar in the department of Sociology and Anthropology at 51���.

Policymakers and practitioners discuss the importance of quality in education with enough evidence to suggest that students, faculty members and staff consider quality differently. For example, students might identify teaching excellence as a key aspect of quality education. University administrators on the other hand might identify research output as an important trait. Given these multiple views on quality, Deepti aims to explore how one qualifies a slippery concept such as quality. Her work is pertinent in relation to the question of quality in a state like Kerala. Known for its literacy and education, the state has often been described as an exceptional model for other states in India. Despite this history, there have been claims that the state’s education is in decline. It is in this context that her research question is significant in understanding the shifting dynamics of higher education.

With the generous scholarship support from 51���, she has been able to relocate to the field site and conduct her research. In addition to this, she also maps institutional histories and traces the ways in which the institution where she conducts research conceptualized quality over the years. She actively follows the media discourse on higher education in Kerala to understand the ways in which quality education is discussed among different stakeholders.

Edited by Yukti Arora and Kangna Verma (Academic Communications, RDO)

51���

Using Machine Learning methods to understand factors and processes which affect cancer progression in humans

Bhavesh Neekhra is a Ph.D. scholar working under the supervision of Dr Debayan Gupta in the Department of Computer Science at 51���. His research uses machine learning to study how Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) affect cancer progression, treatment resistance, and recurrence, aiming to develop personalized treatment strategies.

The oldest known medical records, the Egyptian papyri (Hajdu, 2016), written around the Pyramid Age (ca. 2630 to 2500 BC), mention breast cancer. Under the section titled “Therapy”, it reads: “There is none.” (Mukherjee, 2011). Despite this long history, cancer continues to plague human society in its many avatars with one common fundamental feature: the abnormal growth of cells.

For clinicians treating cancer patients, several key considerations guide their choice of treatments: (1) the efficacy and side effects of the treatment, including the potential for resistance (2) the likelihood of cancer recurrence after successful treatment, and (3) the risk of cancer metastasis. The tumor microenvironment plays a crucial role in each of these factors, making it essential to understand the constituents of this microenvironment.

One of the objectives of Bhavesh’s research is to estimate the type and frequency of stem cells, tumor cells, and immune cells in a given tumor sample. Using machine learning-based approaches, this research aims to analyze the nature of these cells and the critical factors influencing cancer progression. Compared to conventional experimental methods, these computational approaches are faster, less resource-intensive, and cost-effective.

The experiments conducted have highlighted the role of immune cells, stem cells, and tumor cells in cancer progression, treatment resistance, and cancer relapse. The research focuses particularly on Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) and their role in tumor development. By identifying and quantifying different types of CSCs in tumor samples, the research has produced results consistent with those obtained from lab-tested samples, validating the accuracy of these methods.

In conclusion, a better understanding of the role of Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) in cancer progression, recurrence and treatment resistance can aid in developing effective personalized treatment strategies.

Edited by Yukti Arora and Kangna Verma (Academic Communications, RDO)

51���

Breaking the Silence: A Look at Domestic Violence and the Need for Trauma-Informed Support in India

Maitrayee Sen is pursuing her research under the supervision of Dr. Simantini Ghosh at the Department of Psychology at 51���. As a passionate and dedicated researcher in India, Maitrayee is deeply committed to addressing the widespread issue of domestic violence against women. Motivated by a commitment to gender equality and social justice, she aims to unravel the complexities of this problem through rigorous research. Her work focuses on understanding the various forms of relationship violence faced by Indian women, with a special emphasis on Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), which remains a grave concern worldwide.

In India, Domestic Violence is a bigger problem than just violence between spouses (Intimate Partner Violence, IPV). Domestic Violence in the South Asian context is deeply rooted in cultural norms that give men more power than women. This is similar to what happens in other parts of the world.
However, the nature of abuse extends beyond the conventional understanding of IPV, as Indian women often cohabit with not just their spouses but also marital relatives who can be perpetrators. Additionally, violence is also perpetrated by the natal family members before marriage or any cohabiting relationship.

Research often frames domestic violence in episodes, which misses the deeper psychological effects of ongoing, repetitive abuse. Maitrayee’s work argues for using a continuous trauma framework to better understand the chronic nature of domestic violence in India. Complex trauma theory, originally developed for survivors of childhood sexual abuse, is a useful way to understand the layered trauma experienced by Indian women. This theory suggests that long-term, inescapable trauma leads to psychological issues beyond those defined by Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. For Indian women, a lifetime of control, oppression, and abuse fits the criteria of complex trauma.
Currently, there is no unified or structured program in India to help survivors of long-term domestic violence beyond providing legal aid and temporary relief from anxiety or depression. Once the complex trauma theory is proven effective, several stagewise, structured intervention programs that have been formulated with the help of this theory can be standardized and scaled up to help survivors in a culturally and contextually sensitive manner.

Edited by Yukti Arora and Kangna Verma (Academic Communications, RDO)

51���

The Tapi Project Live Performance at the Open Amphitheatre

On the evening of August 29th, the Open Amphitheatre transformed into a haven of musical enchantment as The Tapi Project took centre stage. The atmosphere was electric, charged with anticipation as the audience gathered to experience a fusion of folk and contemporary sounds that have come to define this unique band from Surat.

The concert began with an ethereal ambiance, as Swati's powerful and sensuous voice filled the amphitheatre, weaving Yogi’s poetry into a rich tapestry of emotions. Each song was a journey, evoking deep feelings as the lyrics touched on themes of rivers, life, lost values, and the universal search for self. The band’s ability to blend ancient tradition with contemporary sounds was on full display, creating an immersive experience that resonated with both the heart and soul.

The Tapi Project’s signature style—a blend of folk, trip-hop, jazz, and ambient textures—was evident throughout the evening. The band’s use of traditional folk instruments added a layer of authenticity to their performance, while their experimentation with intricate genres brought a modern edge to their music. This fusion of the old and new is what makes The Tapi Project stand out, and it was evident that the audience was captivated by their innovative sound.

The crowd’s reaction was overwhelmingly positive, as each song was met with enthusiastic applause. The music seemed to touch a chord with everyone present. The amphitheatre, with its open-air setting and natural acoustics, provided the perfect backdrop for this evening of musical magic. Having performed at more than 30 concerts across the country and on the international circuit, The Tapi Project is gaining recognition, with coverage by major platforms such as BBC London, Rolling Stone, MTV, and Songdew. Their performance at the Open Amphitheatre further solidified their reputation as one of the most innovative and emotionally resonant bands in the contemporary music scene.

The evening with The Tapi Project was not just a concert but a deeply emotional experience. Their music, which is an extension of who they really are, left a lasting impression on all who attended. As the night drew to a close, the audience was left with a sense of fulfilment and a deeper connection to the universal themes explored through their songs.

This event was a true testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries, evoke deep emotions, and bring people together in a shared experience of beauty and reflection.

51���

Top Five places to capture the Evening Sonipat skies.

What's so hyped up about Sonipat skies? Sonipat skies have garnered quite the reputation, and for good reason. As the sun begins its descent, the sky transforms into a mesmerising canvas of vibrant colours. If you've ever witnessed a Sonipat sunset, you’d understand why the hype is entirely justified.

The Breathtaking Skies of 51���
Nestled within this picturesque setting is 51���, where the sunsets are nothing short of spectacular. As the day winds down, the campus is bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun, creating an enchanting atmosphere that is both serene and awe-inspiring. The combination of modern architecture and lush greenery provides a perfect backdrop for the sky’s colourful display.
Fellow Ashokans frequently take to social media to share their experiences of these magical moments. Their Instagram feeds and stories are filled with stunning images and videos of the Sonipat skies, capturing the vibrant hues and tranquil ambience that make the sunsets here so special. The constant stream of posts showcases not only the beauty of the skies but also the deep appreciation Ashokans have for their campus environment.
Whether you’re looking to relax after a busy day of classes or capture the perfect golden hour photo, these sunset spots provide the ideal backdrop for relaxation and inspiration.

Here are the top five places on campus where you can enjoy the magical moments of dusk:

1. From the Mess Lawns:
   The mess lawns offer a vast, open space where you can relax and watch the sun dip below the horizon. The expansive view allows for uninterrupted sunset gazing, making it a favourite spot for many students. Bring a blanket and snacks for an impromptu picnic to enjoy while watching the sunset.

2. From the Sunken Field:
   The sunken field is a unique, low-lying field on the campus that offers the perfect slopes to watch the sunset. It is an ideal spot for photography and group activities. Gather with your friends for some outdoor games, casual hangouts, or rolling down on the slopes with the sunset hues covering the skies.

3. From the Main Gate
   As you enter the Main gate of the university during the evenings, it offers a stunning, panoramic view of the sunset. The wide expanse allows you to see the sunset against the backdrop of the University building creating a breathtaking sight.

4. Path Behind AC04:
   The path Behind AC04 provides a quiet and serene spot to catch the sunset. When the skies turn into all shades of pink and orange, this is a perfect spot for all those seeking a moment of solitude. This path is great for an evening stroll, so take a leisurely stroll while the sky transforms with hues of orange and pink.

5. Path in Front of the Sports Complex:
   The path in front of the sports complex offers a spacious area with a clear view of the sunset. The open space allows you to watch the sun as it sets, creating a calm and scenic atmosphere. You can also combine your sunset-watching with cycling rides or a casual jog for a refreshing end to your day.

Picture Credits: Abhay Bhadoriya, Arish Azmat.

51���

#Bookmarked: Unraveling the Lahore Conspiracy Case- Revolutionaries on Trial by Aparna Vaidik

Revolutionaries on Trial is a groundbreaking new study that delves into the infamous Lahore Conspiracy Case, shedding new light on one of the pivotal events in India's struggle for independence. The history of the Lahore Trial has often been portrayed as a miscarriage of justice and a failure of the colonial state to uphold the rule of law. However, this book expands the narrative, exploring the complex interplay of various actors involved in the trial.

The Lahore Conspiracy Case centers on the principal martyrs Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru, who belonged to the Hindustan Socialist Republican Army (HSRA). These young revolutionaries were tried in Lahore Central Jail in a trial named after the city of Lahore, where it was booked and held from 23 July 1929. On 7 October 1930, the judge pronounced them guilty of conspiring and waging a war against the British crown. Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru, whom the Indian public largely viewed as innocent, were sentenced to death, while others received varying jail sentences.

This book scrutinises the intricate performances of four sets of actors in the trial: the colonial state as the plaintiff, the revolutionaries as the defendants, the prosecution witnesses, and the Indian press and public as spectators. Each group had distinct motivations, aspirations, and perspectives on the desired outcome of the trial. The book captures the extensive reach of the trial, which extended beyond the courtroom to various locations such as investigation offices, legislative assemblies, government offices, jails, streets, printing presses, newspapers, coffee houses, meeting rooms, and universities across North India.

The book raises thought-provoking questions about the trial such as: Why did the colonial state bother to put the revolutionaries on trial despite the vast repertoire of violence at its disposal? What more was there to the revolutionaries’ trial strategy other than using the process for propaganda? Is it possible to write a history of nationalism that incorporates acts of collaboration like spying, informing, perfidy, and denunciation without the implicit moral judgment and destructive potential embodied in the term? In what way did the trial shift the public perception about the revolutionaries, if at all?

The book draws on rare archival material, including the trial records from Lahore, Pakistan, the National Archives of India, oral history interviews of surviving revolutionaries, their memoirs, letters, diaries, Indian and British newspaper records, Legislative Assembly debates, and police investigation records. Its research spans over a decade and includes multiple field trips to Lahore, meticulously combing through archives and libraries spread across different countries.

About the Book: Lucidly written and grounded in impeccable scholarship, "Revolutionaries on Trial" vividly brings to life the people and events of a trial that significantly impacted the history of nationalism and revolution in India. Aparna Vaidik's work offers readers a profound understanding of the complexities surrounding the Lahore Conspiracy Case.

About the Author: Aparna Vaidik, a distinguished historian and Professor of History at 51���, has a rich academic background that spans teaching at Georgetown University, Washington DC, and the University of Delhi. Educated at St. Stephen’s College, Cambridge University and Jawaharlal Nehru University, she is a recipient of research grants from the British Academy, Andrew Mellon Foundation, Indian Council for Historical Research, and Charles Wallace India Trust. Her scholarly contributions include notable works like Waiting for Swaraj: Inner Lives of Indian Revolutionaries (Cambridge University Press, 2021), My Son's Inheritance: A Secret History of Lynching and Blood Justice in India (Aleph 2020), and Imperial Andamans: Colonial Encounter and Island History (Palgrave Macmillan, 2010).

51���

‘New Young Professionals’ Vision is Crucial in Addressing Current Governance Challenges,’ Union Minister for Power, Housing & Urban Affairs, Sh. Manohar Lal Khattar

Union Minister for Power, Housing & Urban Affairs, Sh. Manohar Lal Khattar said that the vision of new young professionals is essential in addressing the present challenges faced by governance and administration. He mentioned that by 2035, the country's current electricity demand will double and housing will need to be provided for 130 crore people of the country. Achieving these big goals will require special cooperation from new young professionals so that new dimensions can be achieved nationwide.

The Union Minister expressed these views while speaking as the chief guest at an event organised in honour of completion of eight years of the Chief Minister’s Good Governance Associates (CMGGA) programme in Haryana, held at Sushma Swaraj Bhavan in New Delhi last evening.

The event was attended by former CMGGA associates, senior officials of Haryana government, private sector partners of the programme and 22 graduating associates who have been working in the state for the past 15 months.

During the programme, Sh. Manohar Lal Khattar shared his experiences, saying, "When I took over the responsibility of the state as Chief Minister in Haryana, I had no experience, and it was my first time as an MLA. When I discussed this with Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, he said that when he became Chief Minister, he was not even an MLA when appointed as CM of Gujarat. As you work, you learn, and the cycle of learning and teaching continues." He also recounted his experience during the 1996 floods in Rohtak, where he worked with the administration despite not knowing any bureaucrats in Haryana, except the then Deputy Commissioner of Rohtak, Sh. TVSN Prasad, who is now the current Chief Secretary of Haryana. He emphasised that with the spirit of serving people during the floods, he learned by working with the administration.

The Union Minister said that when he took over as Chief Minister in Haryana, the state was termed as having a policy paralysis, and there were no rules and regulations followed in the government system. Therefore, he took up the task of establishing a system governed by rules in the interest of society and the state. Various new initiatives were started and yielded positive results, such as the Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao programme, the CM-Window programme and the formation of the Pond Authority for the renovation of ponds. Good governance associates played a significant role in the success of these programmes, he added. "We are Proud of the CMGGA Programme, which has become integrated with everyone today," he further said.

He said, "We are proud of the CMGGA programme, which has become integrated with everyone today." He mentioned that opposition members criticised the programme, but he stated that it was implemented for his assistance. He clarified that the CMGGA programme was not a job but a one-year programme based on merit for solving problems. The CMGGA programme provided social exposure for the youth, becoming a support for them as it provided a good platform for their future. He thanked everyone involved in the programme for successfully running it as a team.

“The CMGGA Programme served as a bridge between people and the government,” said Dr. Amit Agrawal, Additional Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister and Project Director of CMGGA. Dr. Amit Agrawal, said that Sh. Manohar Lal was the chief architect of the CMGGA programme, which successfully made operational under his leadership. He said that 148 good governance associates have successfully collaborated on various governance initiatives. This programme served as a bridge between people and the government, promoting citizen-centric governance. Initiatives like the ‘Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao’ programme saw significant improvements in the sex ratio in Haryana. The state, previously known for female infanticide, is now recognised for promoting its daughters. "Over 10 crore Services Provided Through Saral Centres," said Dr. Amit Agrawal.

Dr. Amit Agrawal apprised that in the past eight years, all good governance associates have closely collaborated with district administration and various state government departments, opening over 660 Antyodaya Saral centres and providing more than 10 crore services through these centres, earning the Platinum Award from the President under 'Excellence in Digital Governance. Good governance associates have played a key role in implementing e-office, Mukhyamantri Antyodaya Parivar Utthan Yojana, Amrit Sarovar Yojana, The Haryana Pond and Waste Water Management Authority, Saksham Haryana Initiative and the Playway School Scheme for Anganwadi upliftment. These initiatives have benefited people and over 20 good governance associates are currently working as advisors in various departments.

“The support provided by the Good Governance Associates helped in better implementation of various schemes,” said Dr. Rakesh Gupta, Additional Secretary President's Secretariat, Government of India and former Project Director of CMGGA. Dr. Rakesh Gupta shared his experiences regarding the implementation of the Haryana Online Transfer Policy. He explained how the online transfer policy was implemented and received appreciation nationwide. He mentioned that Sh. Manohar Lal emphasised tech-governance and using IT in government system. Sh. Rakesh Gupta, while discussing the work done by the Good Governance Associates, said that their support helped in better implementation of various schemes. He expressed hope that similar programmes will continue in the future.

During the programme, the Director of the Urban Local Bodies Department, Sh. Yashpal Yadav also shared his thoughts. In the programme, Chief Feedback Officer Mohit Soni, who was also a CMGGA, shared information about the work done with Sh. Manohar Lal during his tenure as CMGGA and expressed his views very eloquently. On this occasion, 51���'s Vice Chancellor Somak Raychaudhuri, along with Gaurav Goel, Vineet Gupta, and Dr. Pramath Raj Sinha from the University, also addressed the gathering. The event was also addressed by senior bureaucrats, private sector partners of the programme and parents of graduating associates. The function was attended by 22 associates of the graduating cohort who have worked in the state for the last 15 months, their parents, past associates, senior bureaucrats of Haryana and private sector partners of the programme. It is significant to note that the Chief Minister’s Good Governance Associates Programme, started in 2016, is the longest running district fellowship programme across the country. It is a flagship initiative aimed at improving governance and public service delivery in Haryana. By engaging young professionals as associates, the programme seeks to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to governance challenges, thereby fostering citizen-centric governance.

On this occasion, Sh. Manohar Lal also released a film and a coffee table book showcasing eight years of CMGGA's work. The programme began with the lighting of the lamp by the Chief Guest, Sh. Manohar Lal and others. Sh. Manohar Lal was also honored with a plant. During the event, Sh. Manohar Lal presented appreciation certificates and mementos to CMGGA posted in various districts.

On this occasion, State Election Commissioner Dhanpat Singh, Director of Urban Local Bodies Department Yashpal Yadav, Director of Town and Country Planning Department Amit Khatri, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Jhajjar Saloni Sharma, Chief Feedback Officer Mohit Soni, Gaurav Goel, Vineet Gupta, Somak Raychaudhuri and Dr. Pramath Raj Sinha including various former and current CMGGAs family’s members and other dignitaries were present.

51��� is the strategic partner in the programme and has engaged to identify, train and build capacity in socially minded young professionals to work with the District Administrations in Haryana.

51���

Ashoka’s Global Mobility: Soaring to New Heights!

This summer, 51��� students are making waves globally doing summer courses, unique programmes and research internships. One standout story is Mridul Malani, a second-year Economics & Finance major, who attended the Corporate Finance Course at HEC Paris Summer School. “Attending the Corporate Finance Course with Professor Patrick Legland at HEC Paris Summer School was an enriching experience. The program not only deepened my understanding of finance but also provided an extraordinary opportunity to connect with brilliant people from around the world. The evenings were filled with unforgettable moments, from lively karaoke nights to delightful barbecue gatherings, fostering a truly international community”, Mridul shares. He even went backpacking across Europe during the course!

This year, over 130+ Ashoka students spread their wings, attending summer courses, unique programs, and research internships across three continents and 15 countries, including the UK, USA, Singapore, Austria, Italy, Germany, France, and Switzerland.

A popular destination remained the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), with 50 students from Economics, Finance, Political Science, Psychology, and PPE majors heading there. Purvi, a third-year student, says, "LSE's summer school goes beyond the classroom. Learning from students worldwide, exploring London's vibrant culture, and accessing the massive LSE library with over 4 million books—it's been incredibly enriching."

Gautami Sharma, a first-year student, describes her LSE experience as "life-changing." She highlights the networking opportunities and social events that contributed to her professional and personal growth. Aanya Malik adds, "For someone who loves to network, LSE was a dream. The campus in the heart of the city offers endless opportunities to upscale oneself. The faculty and summer school department are extremely helpful and welcoming. Truly a summer I won’t forget."

Other top choices for Ashoka students included Stanford University, UC Berkeley, Yale University, UCL, King’s College London, HEC Paris, NTU Singapore, Sciences Po, Yonsei University, University of Zurich, LMH Oxford, Utrecht Summer School, and UAB Barcelona. The Office of Global Education nominated students for various prestigious summer schools, including King's College London (KCL), HEC Paris, and Utrecht summer school. 

A unique highlight was the Hatchery & Mountaintop program by Lehigh University and Hult Summer bootcamp in Boston, where four Ashoka students participated as part of a joint scholarship. Additionally, research internships took Ashoka students to top institutes like the University of California Santa Cruz and Max Planck. Ashoka students can earn research internship credits for internships abroad in university/institute. Financial aid worth INR 17 lakh was awarded to 26 Ashoka undergraduate students, helping them gain invaluable international exposure and hands-on experience.

Ashoka's dynamic summer program welcomed 15 international students from top universities like Durham, Sheffield, KCL, Birmingham, NUS, UC Santa Barbara, Maryland, Cornell, UC San Diego and NYU, showcasing impressive cross-cultural collaboration.

The inaugural cohort of students from Cornell, NYU, Abu Dhabi, and UC San Diego is part of 51��� Summer research programme which aims to provide internships in cutting-edge multidisciplinary research. Students are working under projects ranging from 'Impact of diet on behavioral traits and aging, Quantitative and economic social choice behaviour in zebrafish, to Consortium for Climate, Health, and Air Pollution Research in India (CHAIR-India)".

From this quarter, the University of Birmingham and the University of Manchester, members of prestigious Russell Group institutions, are Ashoka partners. This quarter also saw the signing of a letter of intent for a relationship between Hult International Business School and Ashoka, this will magnify international prospects for Ashoka students. The Office of Global Education successfully converted summer partnerships with Boston University for semester exchange programs. Ashoka students will be going to Boston from this spring onwards for a semester exchange and vice versa. 

Follow Ashoka's global journey this summer on Instagram @ashoka.globaleducation, where students share their experiences through the Insta takeover series organized by the Office of Global Education. Don't miss out on these inspiring stories!

51���

51���’s Commitment to the Environment: Celebrating World Environment Day

At 51���, we are dedicated to creating a sustainable and eco-friendly campus that not only fosters academic excellence but also prioritises environmental responsibility. On the occasion of World Environment Day, a plantation drive was organised in the upcoming North Campus of 51���, graced by Professor Somak Raychaudhury, Vice-Chancellor and Rama Malik, Pro-Vice-Chancellor.

"At Ashoka, sustainability is an article of faith and we believe that a sustainable campus is essential for nurturing responsible global citizens," says Prof. Somak Raychaudhury, Vice-Chancellor of 51���. "Our numerous green initiatives reflect our commitment to the environment".

"Our sustainable practices extend beyond the classroom to every corner of our campus," says Rama Malik, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of 51���. "From water conservation to waste management, we are committed to creating a model of environmental sustainability."

Ashoka’s environment-conscious initiatives include:

Eco-Friendly Campus Design

Our campus buildings showcase innovative design elements such as outdoor corridors, natural ventilation, and "jaali" sunshades. These features, combined with advanced building systems, create a harmonious living and learning environment that respects nature.

Promoting Sustainable Transportation

51��� understands the importance of sustainable transportation. That’s why we provide 24/7 electric vehicle charging stations equipped with Type-2 AC Chargers. The concept of installing EV chargers on campus was originally proposed by Suchir Kalra (ASP’23) during his time as a student at 51���. His forward-thinking initiative aimed to promote sustainable transportation and reduce the campus's carbon footprint. These chargers promote clean and eco-friendly commuting on campus.

Rainwater Harvesting

To address water scarcity, we have implemented 15 rainwater harvesting pits across the campus. These pits recharge groundwater and include chambers for silt removal, ensuring effective water management and conservation.

Campus Composting Facility

Our dedicated composting facility transforms organic waste into nutrient-rich compost, supporting sustainable waste management. With a capacity of 500kg/day and a quick turnaround time, this facility contributes to our campus’s circular economy.

On-Site Nursery

Our skilled team of gardeners manages an on-site nursery with more than 900 potted plants. This initiative not only beautifies the campus but also improves indoor air quality. Annually, we grow around 6000+ plants, promoting biodiversity and a love for nature among students and staff.

Sewage Treatment Plants

51��� operates two sewage treatment plants with a combined capacity of 400KLD. Utilising advanced MBBR technology, these plants treat wastewater to meet Central Pollution Control Board standards, repurposing the water for irrigation and other uses.

Empowering Campus Life with Solar Energy

With solar panels strategically placed on car park rooftops, we aim to make sustainability a seamless part of daily life on campus. This sustainable energy source powers our facilities and fosters a culture of environmental responsibility.

Ensuring Air Purity

To ensure a healthy environment, we have implemented an Air Quality Index (AQI) monitoring system. This system tracks key pollutants, particularly PM 2.5 and PM 10, helping us maintain clean air on campus.

Organic Kitchen Gardens

Our Organic Kitchen Gardens engage students in growing seasonal organic vegetables. By avoiding synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, these gardens produce fresh, pure food, promoting healthy eating and community building.

SDG-Aligned Courses

51��� offers a variety of courses focusing on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These courses emphasise environmental studies and educate students on climate change, species extinction, and environmental justice, preparing them to address global environmental challenges.

LiveGreen@Ashoka

LiveGreen@Ashoka is a university-wide initiative led by students and staff. It transforms our campus into a living lab for sustainable practices, inspiring the community to adopt eco-friendly choices and setting an example for other institutions.

Student Projects on SDGs

Our students actively engage in projects that focus on the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals. These initiatives reflect our commitment to inclusion, diversity, and environmental sustainability.

On this World Environment Day, 51��� reaffirms its dedication to preserving the environment, creating a sustainable future and making a positive impact on our planet.

51���

51��� Convocation 2024: Looking Back at a Decade of Excellence and Celebrating New Beginnings

On May 24th, 51��� witnessed a momentous occasion as 1,004 of its students gathered for their Graduation Ceremony. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and pride as graduates, adorned in their hats and gowns, prepared to embark on the next chapter of their lives. Faculty, family, and friends joined in to honour the achievements of the graduating class, reflecting on their journey and the indelible impact 51��� has had on their academic and personal growth.

Welcoming the graduating class along with their families, friends, faculty, and other representatives of the university,  Chancellor Professor Rudrangshu Mukherjee highlighted that this year’s convocation is extra special, as it coincides with the 10th anniversary of 51���.

He continued by saying, “51��� is that leap of faith that has become a living and enriching reality. Yet, what is 10 years in the life of a university, no more than a blink! Ashoka's decade-long blink is the beginning of an epic journey. I urge the students here to always remember that you have become pilgrims in that epic journey. You came to Ashoka, which aimed to present to you the world of knowledge, but more importantly also to teach you how to grapple with that knowledge.” 

“Rules of evidence, methods of observation and experimentation, critical reasoning, questioning, and radical doubt. Ashoka attempted to imbibe in you an idea of the open-endedness of knowledge, and its transient nature. What we understand as knowledge today may be questioned, and be subverted by newer forms of knowledge in the future. Do not cease from exploration. This could be the only enduring message that Ashoka has gifted to you,” Professor Mukherjee urged. 

This year, 51��� proudly celebrated the graduation of students in two separate ceremonies. Among the graduating class was the University's first Ph.D. in the Sciences, Basabi Bagchi, a landmark achievement for Ashoka. Additionally, there were 40 Master’s students, 354 ASP (Ashoka Scholars Programme) students, and 609 Undergraduate students. As the graduates walked across the stage to receive their degrees, cheers from the audience resonated throughout the venue. Proud parents and faculty members looked on with admiration, celebrating the culmination of years of effort and dedication.

The highlight of the ceremony was a musical performance by a group of talented students from the graduating class, who presented two compositions. The first was their own rendition of Rabindranath Tagore’s famous poem "Where the Mind is Without Fear" in Bengali, and the second was a song by the 19th-century Kannada Sufi poet Shishunala Sharif.

Following the performance, Vice-Chancellor Somak Raychaudhury addressed the graduates and shared his views, “Congratulations, Class of 2024, the world awaits your brilliance, your passion, your creativity, and your compassion. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and bring fresh perspectives to all situations you find yourselves in. As you go forth, remember that you will always be a part of the Ashoka family. Today is your day, seize it, cherish it, and let it inspire you to greater heights.”

Pramath Raj Sinha, Chairperson, 51��� also shared his words of wisdom with the graduating class. “As you go out into the world, you will carry the responsibility of the tag of being an Ashoka Alum. Remember we are still a very new and young university. What you say and do, matters to you, matters to Ashoka. Remember, there is no bigger cause than Ashoka.”

The keynote speaker of the first ceremony, Manish Sabharwal, co-founder of Teamlease Services and a founder of Ashoka, shared practical insights with the graduating class.

“I hope you make five choices because choices matter much more than luck or skill. The first choice is to play the long game. If you play the long game, you don’t have to guess where you are. The second choice I hope you will make is to take more risks. You must remember when you graduate that the days are long but the years are short. The saddest phase of middle age is ‘I wish I had.’ You can always change the things you did, but you can never change the things you didn’t do. So you might as well take risks. The third most important choice from my perspective, which I would like to remind you of, is about having a lifelong learning plan. You also graduate to a new world of work. Employment has shifted from being a lifelong contract to a taxi-cab relationship. Choice number four, learn to work with people you don’t like. Teamwork implies working with everyone.”

The keynote speaker of the second ceremony, Shaheen Mistri, CEO of Teach For India and one of its founding board members, narrated three life-changing personal encounters with students, highlighting the values of loving, giving and interconnectedness, stating, “Why must love, giving, and interconnectedness matter to you? Perhaps life isn’t that complicated, perhaps you need to walk down the path sowing seeds of love, giving what you can, and asking for what you need. Perhaps that will build a strong, interconnected community. Perhaps that community is the preparation we need for the uncertainty of life.”

“Graduates, step onto the path of your greatest potential,” urged Mistri. 

The Graduation ceremony concluded with a rendition of the national anthem led by students, encapsulating the pride and unity of the Ashoka community.

Post the ceremony, delighted parents came forward to share how they felt about the growth and progress they saw their children make at Ashoka.

"When my son started studying at Ashoka, he was a high school pass-out, and we were all very apprehensive about what it was going to be like. But, I think it has been a fantastic three years for him—full of incredible growth and learning. As a parent, it has been really satisfying to see how he has evolved as a person and the role that Ashoka has had in his journey," the mother of a graduating student exclaimed with pride.