TEDx Maitighar 2024
Kindred Kaleidoscope
June 29, 2024 | Loyola Campus, St. Xavier’s College, Matighar
Theme: Kindred Kaleidoscope
This year’s TEDx Maitighar was a vibrant celebration of Nepal’s incredible diversity. The theme perfectly captured the harmonious interplay of different elements, much like the beautiful patterns in a kaleidoscope. Reflecting Nepal’s rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and ethnicities, the theme embodied a shared unity and humanity that binds us all.
The event delved into Nepal’s rich heritage, inspiring participants to embrace unity in diversity and promoting a more inclusive and interconnected society. It was a platform where speakers and attendees could exchange ideas and information, enhance networking and interaction. This dynamic exchange aimed to foster unity and inclusivity while nurturing personal transformation through profound insights and transformative experiences.
An impressive lineup of speakers, including Ram Kumari Jhakri, Giri Devanur, Skanda Gautam, Srichchha Pradhan, Natalia Makarenko, Rupeshwor Gaur Das, Sulav Raj Bhatta, and Preeti Adhikary, provided deep insights and inspiring perspectives that resonated with everyone present. The day was further enriched by performances from Mokshada Theater, Kuma Sagar and The Khwopa Band, and Aesthetic Dance Studio, adding a creative and cultural dimension to the event.
TEDx Maitighar 2024 was a truly inspiring event that showcased the beauty of diversity and the power of unity, leaving attendees with lasting impressions and a renewed commitment to fostering inclusivity and connection within their communities.
Glimpse of TEDxMaitighar 2024
A showcase of innovative ideas and inspiring stories from TEDxMaitighar 2024, highlighting the event’s most memorable moments.
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Preeti Adhikary
Rupeshwor Gaur Das
Das shared his personal journey at TEDxMaitighar, starting from his Newari roots and initial atheism. He humorously described his quest for happiness through relationships and experimenting with various things. Reflecting on his earlier skepticism, he recalled kicking stone sculptures of deities to test their power and faith. Later, he found a scientific aspect in spirituality, drawing parallels between ancient texts like Shrimadbhagwatam and modern embryology, as well as recalling an encounter with a foreigner who asked him about the Bhagavad Gita. Emphasizing the power of the mind, he discussed the roles of mantra, tantra, and yantra, highlighting that everything originates from the mind, intelligence, and soul. Das concluded by emphasizing how our minds shape our identities and actions, underscoring the importance of understanding our minds to achieve happiness, success, and satisfaction.
Natalia Makarenko
Makarenko began her talk by sharing her personal journey of exploration and discovery, reflecting on her background and travels while pursuing her education. She spoke of feeling disconnected from her roots and seeking profound connections that would enrich her life. Makarenko mentioned "GOOD Life," an insightful book that profoundly influenced her perspective on the role of relationship dynamics for success, guiding her to understand the importance of meaningful connections and helping her embark on this life journey. In concluding her talk with her research work, Makarenko emphasized the significant role brands can play not only in personal fulfillment and growth but also in fostering societal transformation and creating a sustainable future.
Srichchha Pradhan
Pradhan focused on the "Ana, Apana Exercise," exploring the profound connection between breathing and overall well-being. She shared her journey of overcoming anxiety and rigid thinking through therapy, stressing the importance of expanding mental horizons. Pradhan discussed how nature's nurturing influence reflects in our behavior, highlighting cultural values of compassion and community. She emphasized the power of storytelling in addressing pressing climate issues, urging the audience to engage in it and advocating for embracing indigenous wisdom and reconnecting with nature.
Giri Devanur
Talking about his journey from India to the US, Devanur shared his feelings of fear and excitement, along with the possibilities that lay ahead of him. Starting from the bottom and adapting to cultural differences, he recounted how he managed to fit in. Devanur took the audience on a roller coaster ride that culminated in his success with Ameri100, which was listed on NASDAQ in four years through the application of the formula (Sankalpa x Shraddha) ^ Sadhana = Siddhi, rooted in ancient Vedic practices. He illustrated this formula through his work with reAlpha, discussing both the challenges and successes. Devanur encouraged the audience to start with small goals, eliminate distractions, and follow through with discipline. Despite uncertainties about the future, he emphasized the importance of knowing one's Sankalpa and urged attendees to remain committed to it to achieve success and bigger goals.
Skanda Gautam
As a photojournalist based in Kathmandu, Gautam shared the journey that helped him embark on his career and contributed to his personal growth. From the devastating incident in Jomsom to distressing experiences during COVID-19, Gautam delved into the harsh realities he encountered in his photojournalistic career. Despite having the power to tell significant stories through pictures, Gautam stated how capturing some moments often requires a degree of apathy and objectivity. Sharing his notable accolades, Gautam expressed his hunger for further international recognition and awards, and how his heart pushes him to capture more moments despite the field receiving minimal recognition.
Sulav Raj Bhatta
Bhatta shared his personal journey through education and career, highlighting his roles at the Fulbright Commission and the U.S. Embassy Kathmandu. From guiding numerous Nepali students towards higher education in the U.S. to engaging with the public and leading youth outreach programs, Bhatta reflected on his life journey of making unusual choices. He discussed the challenges and lessons learned from these unconventional paths, emphasizing their significance in shaping one's life. He concluded by underscoring the impact of these choices and their role in personal growth. Bhatta also mentioned his current position as a social impact officer at eSewa, dedicated to fostering social change and public welfare, aligning with his personal interests and values.
Ram Kumari Jhakri
Jhankri, Nepal's first woman to lead a major political party and a pivotal figure in the country's 2006 democracy movement, delivered a compelling talk on diversity. She passionately discussed Nepal's rich diversity throughout history, yet the ongoing societal reluctance to fully embrace it. From media portrayal to workplace representation, she highlighted the economic and social repercussions of this existing system. Her message resonated deeply, urging for a more inclusive society that values and celebrates its diversity for a brighter, more equitable future.