Theme: Serendipity

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized (subject to certain rules and regulations).

ShilpaKalaVedika Auditorium
Hi-Tech City, MainRoad, Madhapur, Hyderabad
Hyderabad, Telangana, 500041
India

Ayodhya Rami Reddy Alla

Member of Parliament

Rajya Sabha MP Ayodhya Ramireddy is the visionary entrepreneur and founder of the Ramky Group and a trailblazer in green energy and waste management. With a vision of building world class infrastructure in environment management through sustainable growth, Ramky Group manages over 9M metric tons of waste annually through 150+ state of art Waste Management Facilities across various states in India and Middle & South East Asia and spearheads cutting-edge renewable energy projects. A firm believer in balancing growth with environmental stewardship, he has set benchmarks in circular economy practices, proving that business and sustainability can go hand in hand.

Aziz Naser

Stand up Comedian

Presenting Aziz Naser and Mast Ali, the iconic duo who brought Hyderabadi humor to the big screen and made an entire generation laugh out loud. Aziz, an actor, writer, and voice artist, has left his mark in over 40 Hyderabadi films, including cult classics like The Angrez and Hyderabad Nawabs. Known for his versatility, he’s lent his voice to many non-Telugu stars in Telugu films. Mast Ali, a dialogue writer turned actor, is celebrated for his witty performances in The Angrez, Berozgaar, and Hungama in Dubai, and is a sensation on social media with his pseudonym Saleem Pheku. Together, they are the heart and soul of Deccani cinema, capturing the spirit of Hyderabad with their unmatched storytelling and humor.

Dr Shiva

Rescuer

Shiva is a hero of humanity and a lifesaver who has dedicated over 25 years to serving his community. Living by the Hussain Sagar lake, Shiva has rescued 129 lives and recovered over ten thousand bodies, offering closure to grieving families and earning the moniker Tank Bund Shiva. His unwavering commitment to aiding the Police and selflessly responding to those in need—whether saving swimmers in distress or intervening in suicide attempts—has made him a symbol of courage and compassion. Honoured with a doctorate from Osmania University in 2020, Shiva’s story is a testament to the power of empathy and indefatigable service.

E Sivanagi Reddy

Traditional Archaeologist and Historian

Dr. Emani Sivanagi Reddy, an esteemed archaeologist and historian, holds a Ph.D. in History and has a profound legacy in the conservation of heritage. A master of traditional sculpture, he transplanted over 100 historic temples and constructed more than 100 new ones across Andhra Pradesh. He has participated in many archaeological excavations and took up conservation of select Kakatiya Temples in Telangana. Honored with the ‘Vastusilpavachaspati’ title and AP’s prestigious Kalaratna award in 2019, he has authored 100+ books and 500 articles on archaeology and culture. Dr. Reddy currently serves as CEO of Pleach India Foundation and Buddhist Consultant for Telangana Tourism.

Kavita Palancha

Chief Operating Officer, MAKSpay

Kavita Palancha pursues her dream of making financial inclusion a reality with an unparalleled passion. As the co-founder of MAKSPay, she is bridging the gap between financial institutions and underserved communities, using her skills and experience to improve services and create opportunities for people who are often left out of the financial system. Kavita believes in using simple, innovative ideas to help communities and bring positive change, driving institutional growth along with transforming lives.

Mast Ali

Stand Up Comedian

Presenting Aziz Naser and Mast Ali, the iconic duo who brought Hyderabadi humor to the big screen and made an entire generation laugh out loud. Aziz, an actor, writer, and voice artist, has left his mark in over 40 Hyderabadi films, including cult classics like The Angrez and Hyderabad Nawabs. Known for his versatility, he’s lent his voice to many non-Telugu stars in Telugu films. Mast Ali, a dialogue writer turned actor, is celebrated for his witty performances in The Angrez, Berozgaar, and Hungama in Dubai, and is a sensation on social media with his pseudonym Saleem Pheku. Together, they are the heart and soul of Deccani cinema, capturing the spirit of Hyderabad with their unmatched storytelling and humor.

Mayur Patnala

Founder and CEO - NIrmaan Foundation

Meet Mayur Patnala, visionary social entrepreneur and Founder & Global CEO of Nirmaan Organization. Under his leadership, Nirmaan has empowered over 3 million people across 23 Indian states through initiatives in education, skill development, and health. What began in 2005 as a student-led mission at BITS Pilani has expanded to 40+ programs aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals, impacting marginalized communities, youth, and women. Recognized internationally through the U.S. State Department's IVLP, Mayur has also received accolades such as the "Champions of Change" Award and BITSAA Global 30 Under 30. His journey, from volunteering to reshaping lives, epitomizes resilience and a relentless pursuit of social equity.

Nag Ashwin

Film Maker

Nag Ashwin is a visionary filmmaker redefining Indian cinema with his bold storytelling. Known for his critically acclaimed Mahanati, which won three National Film Awards, Nag pushes boundaries with Kalki 2898 AD, India’s first sci-fi epic, blending mythology with a futuristic narrative. He is celebrated for his innovative approach to storytelling and ability to create compelling worlds. Nag’s films challenge conventions, inspire audiences, and showcase his passion for marrying art with imagination.

Prahlada Ramarao

Aerospace Scientist

Dr. Prahlada Ramarao, renowned aerospace scientist and Padma Shri recipient, led India's AKASH Missile System development, a major surface-to-air defense system inducted by the Army and Air Force and valued at over Rs 50,000 Crores. As Director of DRDL, he directed India’s K-15 Submarine Launched Missile and BRAHMOS supersonic missile programs, working closely with former President of India Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. A former Distinguished Scientist at DRDO, he managed major missile projects and international collaborations. After retirement, he served as Vice-Chancellor of Defence Institute of Advanced Technology, Pune, the only Defence University in the Country. An esteemed fellow of multiple scientific academies, he is the Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer of Hylenr Technologies, pioneering in Cold Fusion research.

Ravi Prabhu

Global Traveller

Ravi Prabhu is one of India’s most accomplished travelers, the first and only Telugu person to visit every country on the planet (195/195), a feat achieved by a tiny fraction of people globally. Hailing from Visakhapatnam and a graduate of Hyderabad, Ravi now resides in the USA. His journey spans continents and cultures, embracing the diversity of the world—all while balancing a career and family. Ravi's story is a testament to passion and perseverance, proving that exploring the world doesn’t require leaving behind the life you love.

Rubina Nafees Fatima

President

Rubina Nafees Fatima is a dynamic social entrepreneur and the visionary founder of Safa India, an organization empowering marginalized women and youth through education, skill development, and sustainable livelihoods. Driven by a mission to break cycles of poverty, she has directly impacted over 80,000 lives, creating pathways to financial independence and dignity. Rubina’s innovative models in micro-entrepreneurship and gender equity have been celebrated nationally, inspiring systemic change. With relentless passion, she’s redefining grassroots empowerment and proving the power of inclusive growth.

Sanjay Thumma

Indian celebrity chef, entrepreneur, restaurateur and television personality

Chef Sanjay Thumma, better known as Vah-Chef is the dynamic force behind the globally celebrated cooking site, Vahrehvah.com. Since launching his engaging recipe channel in 2007, he has captivated food lovers everywhere with over 750 million views, particularly resonating with the Indian diaspora. Sanjay’s charisma extends to television, where he shines as a judge on MasterChef India – Telugu, inspiring home chefs across the nation in both seasons. With a flair for flavor and a passion for sharing culinary joy, Sanjay Thumma has become a household name in Indian cuisine worldwide.

Shikha Goel

Director General of Police

Shikha Goel is an IPS officer of the 1994 batch, who has been shaping public safety and empowerment for 30 years. As the Director General of Police, CID, Telangana, she leads key wings including the CID, Cyber Security Bureau, Forensic Sciences, and Women Safety Wing. Shikha is the force behind impactful initiatives like SHE Teams, Bharosa Centres, and Sahas, making public spaces and workplaces safer. Her leadership has transformed cybercrime victim support, earning Telangana the top rank in refund efficiency. A recipient of two Presidential Medals and the Ati Utkrisht Seva Patak, Shikha’s journey exemplifies dedication to justice and societal change.

Uma Sudhir

Journalist

Uma Sudhir, Executive Editor at NDTV, is a respected figure in Indian journalism, known for her fearless reporting on politics, extremism, human trafficking, and issues affecting women, children, and rural communities. Her work has earned numerous accolades, including the Chameli Devi Jain Award (2017), the Ramnath Goenka Award, and the IPI Award for her "Baby India" series on the girl child. Uma has received the UNFPA Laadli Award five times and has been recognized by the Telangana government for her contributions to development journalism. Celebrated for her integrity, consistency, and dedication, she continues to exemplify the highest standards of journalism.