Theme: Catalyst: Moments that Spark Unforgettable Change

Sometimes, all it takes is a single moment to change everything. A conversation, an idea, or a bold decision that creates a ripple effect. These sparks shape who we are, how we see the world, and the paths we choose. TEDxKIITUniversity 2025 is about celebrating these life-changing moments. It’s about stories of people who chose to act when it mattered most, innovations that shifted industries, and simple decisions that transformed lives in ways nobody expected.

The speakers will share their journeys, i.e. the sparks that ignited revolutions or evolutions in their thinking, personal breakthroughs, and movements that made a difference. They’ll inspire us to brainstorm on the moments that shaped our own lives and encourage us to be catalysts for change in the world around us. This is a call to embrace those sparks, big or small, that have the power to change everything. Because sometimes, a spark is all it takes.

KIIT Auditorium, Campus 6
6, Campus 15 Rd, Chandaka Industrial Estate, K I, I T University, Patia, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751024
Bhubaneswar, Orissa, 750124
India

Dr. Suman Chakraborty

Professor

Dr. Suman Chakraborty, a distinguished professor of Mechanical Engineering and the Dean of Research and Development at IIT Kharagpur, is a pioneering figure in microfluidics and nanofluidics. His groundbreaking innovations, particularly in developing affordable healthcare technologies like COVIRAP and lab-on-a-chip diagnostics, have significantly advanced medical accessibility and diagnostics. Recognized for his exceptional contributions to science and technology, Dr. Suman Chakraborty has been honored with prestigious awards, including the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize, the Infosys Prize, and esteemed fellowships from the APS, RSC, and ASME, along with the UNESCO TWAS Award in Engineering and Computer Sciences (2026).

Lt. Gen. Devendra Pratap Pandey

Lieutenant General Indian Army

Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey is a decorated veteran of the Indian Army, known for his strategic leadership and contributions to national security. Commissioned into the 9th Battalion of the Sikh Light Infantry in 1985, he commanded forces in Siachen, Ladakh, and Kashmir, leading key counter-insurgency operations as the General Officer Commanding of the Chinar Corps (XV Corps). Lt Gen Pandey, an NDA and IMA alumnus, served as DG of the Territorial Army and Commandant of the Army War College. He earned PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, and VSM. Committed to youth empowerment, he led initiatives like the Parivar School for specially-abled children and the Kashmir Premier League 2021.

Mr. Aditya Kodmur

Magician + Illusionist

Aditya Kodmur is an Indian magician, illusionist, and Guinness World Record holder, renowned for his exceptional sleight of hand, card throwing, and modern magic performances. Born on September 2, 2004, in Gulbarga, Karnataka, he has gained national recognition for his mastery in mind reading, deception, and illusions. Aditya holds multiple Guinness World Records, including the most playing cards thrown into watermelons in one minute. His innovative magic and technical precision have captivated audiences across India, making him one of the most promising young magicians in the country.

Mr. Digbijayee Khatua

Artist

Renowned Indian artist Mr. Digbijayee Khatua is celebrated for his innovative fusion of traditional and modern artistic techniques. His vibrant, meticulously crafted works explore themes of culture, nature, and spirituality, resonating with audiences across India and beyond. Recognized for his significant contributions to contemporary Indian art, he has received several prestigious accolades, including the 62nd National Award from Lalit Kala Akademi (2022) and the Gold Medal from the Prafulla Art Foundation (2018). From Kendrapara to Delhi, Mr. Khatua’s journey reflects his unwavering commitment to artistic innovation while remaining deeply connected to his cultural heritage.

Mr. Elwinder Singh

Entrepreneur

Elwinder Singh’s trailblazing journey and remarkable accomplishments embody the essence of innovation and leadership. As the co-founder of Connect and Heal (CNH), he has transformed India’s healthcare landscape by offering critical services such as 24x7 telemedicine, ambulance support, home care, and corporate health solutions, impacting over 6 million people across 400+ organizations. Featured in Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia (2023) and honored with the BW Healthcare World 40 Under 40 Awards, Elwinder’s dedication to accessible healthcare has set new benchmarks in the industry. As a One Young World Ambassador with experience at Roland Berger and A.T. Kearney, his work exemplifies how innovation can catalyze transformative change in the healthcare sector.

Mr. Partha Pratim Das

Medical Innovator + Entrepreneur

Partha Pratim Das Mahapatra is a visionary technocrat and entrepreneur dedicated to making healthcare affordable and accessible. In 2018, he founded EzeRx HealthTech, a biotech startup aiming to eradicate anemia. Under his leadership, EzeRx created EzeCheck, an AI-enabled device that detects anemia non-invasively in under a minute, without blood samples. This device, validated by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), has screened over 2.5 million individuals in India. Before entrepreneurship, Partha gained expertise in data warehouse and BI projects with Fortune 500 firms like Grant Thornton, ITC Infotech, and Capgemini. His innovation has positioned EzeRx as a leader in non-invasive diagnostics, with plans to expand offerings and achieve ₹100 crore turnover in three years.

Mr. Saim Bhat

Playback Singer + Composer + Writer

Saim Bhat, an Indian playback singer, composer, and writer, is known for soulful tracks like Sufi Tere Pyaar Mein, Aye Khuda, and Phir Mohabbat. Hailing from Kashmir, he pioneered Sufi rock, blending tradition with modern sounds. Starting with his band Vibrationz, he led Kashmir’s first Sufi rock concert in 1999. Trained by legends like Ghulam Hassan Sofi and Pandit Jasraj Ji, he made his Bollywood debut with Jai Veeru and gained fame with Murder 2. Beyond music, Saim is a philanthropist, honored for saving Dal Lake and uniting communities. Through his Sufi Academy, he nurtures young talent. “Music is my love, but contributing to society is my Dharma.

Ms. Madhulita Mohapatra

Odissi Dancer

A distinguished Odissi dancer and the visionary founder of Nrityantar, Ms. Madhulita Mohapatra, has played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Odissi. Her performances at the Konark Festival and Johor Bahru Arts Festival have showcased her choreographic brilliance and expressive abhinaya, earning her widespread acclaim. Her dedication to the art form has been recognized with prestigious honors, including the Sangeet Natak Akademi's Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar (2018), the IIW She Inspires Award at the UK Parliament (2024), and the Devi Award (2024). As a Doordarshan ‘A’ grade artist and ICCR empaneled artiste, she inspires generations through her artistry and dedication to cultural excellence. Her story of passion and perseverance is inspiring and resonates globally.

Ms. Trupti Jain

Agriculturist + Entrepreneur + Co-Founder - Naireeta Services

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