From childhood dreams to the Sundance spotlight: Sripadh Puligilla’s journey
By: Amrita Priya
(January 25, 2025) Chicago-based Sripadh Puligilla is living proof that dreams can come true with passion and persistence. At the age of 15, he laid out his aspirations with clarity. “My goal for a career in life is to become a movie director and work in the film industry,” he wrote in a blog post on Medium, a declaration of ambition from a young boy with stars in his eyes.
Fast forward eight years, and Sripadh’s dream is no longer a distant hope, rather a reality. At just 23, the Indian-American actor has made his mark in the industry with roles in films, theatre, and television. His career has reached new heights with the premiere of his film, Debaters. The short film was unveiled at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, earning acclaim during its screening at the Library Center Theatre in Park City, Utah.
Sripadh Puligilla in a still from Debaters | Photo Credit : IMDB
The Sundance spotlight
The 2025 Sundance Film Festival, one of the world’s premier showcases for independent films, is running from January 23 to February 2 in Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah. Sripadh Puligilla’s Debaters has featured prominently, with screening on the first day of the festival, and online screenings scheduled from January 30 to February 2.
The actor could hardly contain his excitement as he announced the milestone to his followers. “Elated, delighted, excited, and everything in between!” he shared. His joy reflects not just a personal achievement but a shared victory for independent storytellers striving to make their voices heard.
Sripadh Puligilla comes from a culturally rich Telugu-speaking family from India. “I was born in a town called Guntur. My family moved a lot across different places when I was a kid. I lived in India for the first 10 years of my life,” he shared in his blog titled Coming to a whole new world. “My family moved to America in March 2011. That was a turning point in my life. Living in these very different countries made my mind more open to different perspectives, opinions and cultures.”
While his roots trace back to Indian soil, his creative journey took flight in the United States. Over the past few years, the young artist has been actively working in America’s film, television, and theatre industries, honing his craft and building a strong foundation in storytelling. From performing in experimental plays to landing acting assignments in film and television, Sripadh has fully embraced the raw, collaborative energy of the acting world.
Trained at Black Box Acting Academy, he has appeared in films and television shows such as Durasa, Make ‘Em Laugh, Connivery, and Gheeception. He has also performed in stage productions like National Merit, The Wise Guys, and One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest—experiences that have deepened his love for storytelling.
The Debaters
Debaters has captivated film festival audiences with its nuanced storytelling and compelling performances, earning critical acclaim. The film has turned Sripadh Puligilla as a talent to watch, with his portrayal of Anubhav, a high schooler terrified of speaking in a fiercely competitive debate chamber.
Set in the world of congressional debates, the short film, written and directed by Alex Heller, follows a group of affluent high school students vying to impress two working-class adult judges. Anubhav, attending his first tournament, is thrown into the spotlight when a bitter judge challenges him about minimum wage. Forced to confront his fear of public speaking in front of a ruthless group of debaters, Anubhav rises to the occasion and proves himself.
Featuring a cast that includes J. Smith Cameron, Kenneth Lonergan, and Bernadette Santos Schwegel, Debaters is produced by Full Spectrum Features. The film has made a standout entry at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival.
Significant milestones
For Sripadh, Debaters marks an important milestone in his journey as an actor. With opportunities unfolding in both film and theatre, he is carving out a unique space for himself in the entertainment industry.
In his own words, “This is a very very very special short.” Indeed, Debaters is more than just another project for Sripadh Puligilla. It’s a meaningful chapter in his growing career and a continuation of a childhood dream he has been steadily building upon.
(April 13, 2024) "Are there any fishes in the water?" or "What's the depth of the water" were some of the questions that a curious 9-year-old scuba diver and eco-crusader Tharaagai Aarathana asked her father Aravind Tharunsri before starting to swim across the Palk Strait in the beautiful morning of April 3, 2024 at Talaimannar in Sri Lanka. Having waited out for 1.5 hours for the wind to calm down, she along with her dad and cousin Nishvik were ready to take the plunge in the calming water of the ocean. "I am comfortable with deep water, otherwise I get scared to jump into the water as you can touch the sea floor," smiles Tharaagai as she connects with Global Indian. Swim across the Palk Strait It's the first time that a father-daughter duo has swam across the Palk Strait together, clocking an impressive time of 11 hours and 30 minutes and securing a place in Assist World Records. However, their motivation transcends mere record-breaking; their swim is for a bigger purpose - to raise awareness about ocean pollution and environment conservation. Tharaagai was only three when she began accompanying her father to weekly beach cleanups and soon learnt about
urs and 30 minutes and securing a place in Assist World Records. However, their motivation transcends mere record-breaking; their swim is for a bigger purpose - to raise awareness about ocean pollution and environment conservation. Tharaagai was only three when she began accompanying her father to weekly beach cleanups and soon learnt about ocean pollution, leading her to take charge as an eco-crusader. Even during the 30-km long stretch between Talaimannar in Sri Lanka and Dhanuskodi in Tamil Nadu, the trio remained committed to their cause, gathering 6 kgs of plastic waste. "Every piece of plastic we spotted floating on the ocean's surface, we made sure to retrieve and stow away in the boat," recalls Tharaagai.
Enduring nearly 12 hours in the water is no easy feat, especially for a nine-year-old who was accompanied by her seven-year-old cousin Nishvik. "I have been swimming since I was three. All these years of water adaptation have helped me stay put for a very long time. With each challenge, I push outside my comfort zone and that's what I did with the Palk Strait swim too. At times, we have to face strong currents or daunting waves but we adapt to the challenges and face them," smiles the eco-crusader.
The 30-km swim
The journey began from Dhanuskodi after getting clearance from both the Indian and Sri Lankan governments. "We boarded a mother boat in the afternoon of April 2 to reach Talaimannar in four hours. The big boat provides essential amenities like beds, food, and restroom facilities. It also carries the support crew consisting of doctors, physiotherapists, and their assistants, two support swimmers, and a kayak," reveals Aravind, who is a scuba diving instructor. To ensure their safety, they were accompanied by a mother boat, a rescue boat, a backup boat, and a kayak.
Starting in the wee hours of April 3, Aravind, Tharaagai, and Nishvik, who were waiting for the weather to clear out, braced themselves for a long day ahead. "It's a non-stop journey without any breaks," explains Aravind, adding, "You can drink water or eat a banana or dates or nuts from the accompanying kayak." However, setting off before dawn had its perks as they had the opportunity to witness bioluminescence, (emission of light by living organisms), which captivated the two kids. "That's one of the things we love about night swimming," smiles the girl.
[caption id="attachment_37127" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Swimming across the Palk Strait[/caption]
Given their years of swimming experience, the duo didn't undergo any special preparation for the 30km swim. "We have been constantly swimming and gymming - for stretching to avoid any cramps during swimming along with some cardio," reveals Aravind for whom mental fortitude was equally important as he recognised the unpredictability of the ocean.
With decades of scuba diving experience under his belt, Aravind felt relatively prepared for the challenges. "Throughout the swim, I kept the kids motivated by engaging in small talk or plays so that they don't fell the fatigue. I kept them distracted so that they dwell on how far is the finishing line," he laughs. However, the final four hours proved to be the most challenging as they had to swim against the current. "If we stop swimming, the current would push us back. So, we kept moving forward despite the strong current," adds Tharaagai, who was welcomed by a cheering crowd at Dhanuskodi.
Swim for a cause
Aravind calls himself "a proud father" seeing his daughter create an impact as an eco-crusader. "Till now, she has collected 2000 kg of plastic waste from ocean and beaches," beams Aravind, adding, "More kids are getting inspired and joining us for future adventures to create awareness. The idea is that if my daughter can do it, everyone can do it." Aravind firmly believes that the future generation has the power to create change. "If we ask the government to stop manufacturing plastic bottles, it won't happen. But these young kids are witnessing the harmful effects of single-use plastic on the environment. In the future, one of them would ascend to positions of influence - be it Chief Minister, Prime Minister, or Forest Officer. That's when these efforts will truly matter," says Aravind.
An eco-crusader
The Chennai girl's love for water is a gift from her father who started adapting her to water when she was all of three days old. By the time, she was nine months old, she began floating and in the next two years, she was swimming like a pro. Her bond with water kept strengthening with each passing day, and at the age of five, she started training for scuba diving in shallow water.
[caption id="attachment_37128" align="aligncenter" width="562"] Aravind with daughter Tharaagai[/caption]
Growing up near the sea made her aware of the marine pollution and the plastic menace on the beaches. At a young age, she understood "how plastic and abandoned nets were adding to the pollution and affecting marine life." With some hand-holding by her father, she sat through awareness programs and training, absorbing every bit of information about endangered marine species, especially the Dugong (sea cow). "With 150 dugongs left in India, she decided to save them from plastic pollution. She is creating awareness among kids through presentations in various schools," says Aravind, who founded South India's first-ever scuba diving center Temple Adventures in Pondicherry in 2007.
His passion for protecting the environment has rubbed off on his daughter as the two are now working as a team of eco-crusaders. "Every week, we clean up the beaches and the ocean beds. I then segregate the plastic and send the one that can be upcycled to the recycling plant. While the other is taken care of by the government who dispose of it properly," reveals Aravind.
Tharaagai, who is being home-schooled, wants to be a scuba diver when she grows up. But the nine-year-old is currently enjoying her work as an eco-crusader and wants more kids to join hands. "I alone cannot clean marine plastic, everyone has to participate," she signs off.
(February 22, 2023) When Prakrithi Suresh was barely two years old, her parents were overjoyed to hear her humming the Carnatic song she had heard her father practice. Carnatic music had been in her family for generations, starting with her paternal grandfather. They were trained vocalists although none had pursued it as a career. Prakrithi’s hereditary inclinations were celebrated and encouraged by her parents and when she was three-and-a-half years old, she began her training. [caption id="attachment_27731" align="aligncenter" width="722"] Prakrithi Suresh[/caption] Now fifteen, this Sharjah-based vocalist is a known face in UAE’s musical circuit, with many stage performances to her credit. Not only is she a gifted singer, she is also a talented Bharatanatyam dancer who has been training under the best gurus in UAE since she was four. While there are invitations for conferences and participation in music fests round the year, Prakrithi connects her gift of singing and dancing with spirituality. “I sing and dance just for the spiritual connection. My sole goal is to spread divinity, and to make everybody realise that it’s the ultimate supreme that all of us has to surrender to,” the young artist says in an interview with Global Indian. “My parents
e there are invitations for conferences and participation in music fests round the year, Prakrithi connects her gift of singing and dancing with spirituality. “I sing and dance just for the spiritual connection. My sole goal is to spread divinity, and to make everybody realise that it’s the ultimate supreme that all of us has to surrender to,” the young artist says in an interview with Global Indian.
“My parents have been very supportive and have never pressurised me about academics,” remarks Prakrithi, crediting them for her achievements so far.
Making a name
At the UAE’s national Margazhi fest 2019, Prakrithi bagged the overall champion award for excelling in all six categories of Carnatic vocal competitions. In 2020 she came second in an International Carnatic dance and music competition, which saw participation from around the world.
[caption id="attachment_27735" align="aligncenter" width="724"] Prakrithi Suresh with childrens’ book author Elisabetta Dami[/caption]
She has also received the Geronimo Stilton Foundation's medallion from its founder, the childrens’ book author Elisabetta Dami, at the Sharjah International Book Fair, for upholding the legacy of Indian traditional art forms even while living abroad.
The musical journey
Having begun her Carnatic vocal training as a toddler, the teenager is grateful to have trained under some of the best gurus in India and the UAE. She started learning formally from her guru, Palakkad Rajesh Kesav, and went on to learn from Dr Amruta Sankaranarayanan, who is the daughter and disciple of Padma Bhusan, Sangeetha Kalanithi T V Sankaranarayanan.
The fifteen-year-old is now receiving advanced training from Dr Maithli Krishnan, professor of music, SRC College Trichy. As they are in different countries, the guru and shishya connect with each other online.
The talented disciple is also a teacher to two four-year-old pupils who have started learning Carnatic vocals from her.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qgXvAuGr0uw
The teen vocalist’s portfolio comprises an impressive collection of music videos on her YouTube channel. The aesthetically-shot videos have been shot by her musically-inclined engineer father.
“I do not have any motive of earning money from my performances, nor do I want to spend money on creating music videos and that’s why my father films them,” she says. Her innocent smile hides great maturity.
Prakrithi’s mother, who worked as a scientist before her daughter was born, has played a great role in evoking the sense of divinity in Carnatic vocal and Bharatanatyam for the teenager. “I am spiritually inclined and do not perform for fame,” she says, adding, “It’s my mother who tells me how I can do better if I am spiritually connected to my art.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUzCqqc6LDw
The path of Bharatanatyam
Whether it is Carnatic music or Bharatanatyam, Prakrithi finds tranquillity and peace in both. While Carnatic music is a way of seeking enlightenment, Bharatanatyam is sadhana for her.
“Bharatanatyam is like uniting the soul with the absolute soul,” she says, adding, “Coming from a spiritual country like India, where the realization of consciousness or spirit has been the supreme goal of life, it is no wonder that the oldest dance form of the country, Bharatanatyam is nothing but a form of Sadhana.”
Prakrithi had started basic training of the dance form in 2013 under her guruSahadevan of Kalakshetra, Sharjah who is the discipline of Rukmini Devi Arundale. Currently she is honing her skills under guru Girish Kumar, the disciple of Kalamandalam Chandrika who is the disciple of the veteran actress Vaijayantimala.
Apart from performing in various events in UAE and in functions organised by the Indian consulate of Dubai and Indian Association Sharjah; the youngster has performed in two Natyanjali’s in India as well.
On a different note…
A student of Sharjah’s Amity Private School, when Prakrithi is not busy studying or practicing, she can be found playing musical notes on her guitar or keyboard. “I have taught myself to sing English songs and play western instruments,” she shares.
Looking forward to soon start her high school, the artistic teenager has already decided her professional path. “I want to become a veterinary doctor, quite opposite to what people would think,” she smiles.
(October 22, 2024) At 15, Anika Kumar's world shifted when she volunteered at an assisted living facility in San Jose, California. There, she met Abigail, an 87-year-old woman who lived in quiet isolation, her voice unheard despite numerous requests for basic assistance. Abigail's story wasn't just about the loss of dignity in her daily struggles — it represented the widespread issue of social isolation among seniors, an issue often ignored. Abigail's resignation to her situation deeply impacted Anika Kumar. This wasn't just a personal challenge; it was a growing public health crisis. Abigail's helplessness showed how widespread ageism and social isolation can be for elderly people. That single encounter laid the foundation for Forget Me Not, a nonprofit designed to combat loneliness among older adults through weekly phone calls with teenage volunteers. These calls, simple yet impactful, aim to build meaningful connections and forge lasting intergenerational bonds. Forget Me Not: Bridging the Generational Gap Founded in 2015, Forget Me Not operates with a clear goal: to provide companionship to isolated older adults, many of whom are referred through partner organisations such as Meals on Wheels. The organisation pairs seniors with high school volunteers, training them to make weekly phone calls.
teers, training them to make weekly phone calls. Anika was only 15 when she started the nonprofit while volunteering at an assisted living facility. She added that the conversations between the elderly and student volunteers are "meaningful, rewarding, refreshing and touching. The elderly talk about their interests, hobbies, families, bygone days, childhood, favourite books and movies."
Calling herself a perpetuator of ageism like many Gen Z, Anika too wasn't keen on interacting with senior citizens until a high school community service requirement that forced her to start volunteering at one changed her perspective. "I realised how ignorant I had been in my thinking. At that nursing home, I met a World War II veteran, a former professor at my university, a college football player and the first teen female Bay Area radio host. I met some of the most genuine kind wise and dynamic people I had ever met and the stories they told me. It opened me up to a whole world of truly meaningful interaction that I hope to continue for the rest of my life," the Global Indian said.
With the elderly population growing and social isolation on the rise, Forget Me Not addresses a critical need. These weekly calls became even more crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, when in-person visits were restricted, leaving many seniors more isolated than ever before.
Based in San Jose, Forget Me Not is more than just a phone call program — it's the product of careful research and strategic planning. She didn’t build her intergenerational nonprofit overnight. Inspired by her firsthand experience with elderly isolation, she "delved deep into ageism-related issues, studying the mental health impacts of depression and loneliness on seniors." To refine her vision, she spoke with geriatricians and elder care experts, making sure that Forget Me Not could effectively tackle the rising public health crisis of social isolation.
Teenagers Making a Difference
In a time where teens are often criticised for being glued to their phones or disconnected from reality, Anika and her peers turned technology into a tool for good. By using something as simple as a phone call, they built connections and shattered stereotypes of both the elderly and the youth. Teen volunteers undergo training to help them navigate conversations and handle emotional challenges. The result is an exchange that goes beyond small talk — it's about building trust, understanding, and a sense of purpose on both sides.
For the seniors, these calls are a lifeline, providing an outlet to share their lives and experiences, while the teenagers gain a new perspective on aging and life’s challenges. "Forget Me Not is a perfect example of how one person’s idea can create ripples of change, connecting communities and providing a solution to an often overlooked issue."
The Importance of Cultural Connections
Anika’s journey is also deeply rooted in her Indian heritage. As a young Indian American in San Jose, Anika Kumar is part of a thriving Indian community in the Bay Area, where many Indian Americans have made significant contributions across sectors. The Indian diaspora in the Bay Area is known for its entrepreneurial spirit and its active role in technology, education, and social causes.
San Jose, and the wider Bay Area, are home to a large and vibrant Indian community. Like many in the diaspora, Anika Kumar grew up balancing her cultural identity with her desire to give back to her local community. The intergenerational bonds she has fostered through Forget Me Not reflect this duality —honouring the wisdom of elders while empowering the youth to step up and take on leadership roles.
A Growing Movement
Today, Forget Me Not has grown from a local initiative in Santa Clara County to a nationwide program, with plans for further expansion. The organisation continues to partner with schools and senior care organisations across the country, aiming to combat social isolation on a larger scale. Anika's vision is clear: to create a world where older adults are valued, and where young people are given the opportunity to connect with them in meaningful ways.
The pandemic brought unforeseen challenges, but it also highlighted the importance of Forget Me Not’s mission. With so many seniors cut off from physical interactions, the program’s phone calls became a crucial support system. As the world moves forward, Forget Me Not remains committed to expanding its reach, ensuring that no senior is left feeling invisible or forgotten.
Indian Diaspora: An Integral Force in the Bay Area
Anika Kumar’s story is part of a larger narrative of Indian Americans making a difference in the Bay Area. The Indian diaspora in San Francisco and San Jose has long been a key player in the region's success. From entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley to leaders in education and social justice, Indian Americans have carved out spaces of influence, and they continue to give back to both their local communities and their homeland.
For young changemakers like Anika, who is an undergraduate research assistant at Brooks Lab, being part of the diaspora means blending cultural heritage with a passion for making a difference. Forget Me Not is not just about bridging generational gaps—it’s about fostering a deeper sense of community, one that transcends age, ethnicity, and borders.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x4L6D9XT_hA
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Reach
With the overwhelming success of Forget Me Not, Anika has ambitious plans for the future. She envisions the organization expanding its reach to even more states and communities. The goal is simple: no senior should ever feel alone, and no teenager should miss the chance to learn from someone with decades of life experience.
Forget Me Not is proof of what can happen when empathy meets action. Anika's journey, from a high school volunteer to a nonprofit leader, is a validation that one person can indeed make a difference. And for the seniors who receive those weekly calls, the impact is clear—connection, companionship, and a renewed sense of purpose.
(February 6, 2024) In March 2023, when pro-Khalistan extremists vandalised the premises of the Indian High Commission in London and attempted to violate the Indian flag, the Indian community in the UK responded swiftly. Various Indian diaspora groups got together for a spirited demonstration outside the Indian High Commission in London, showcasing solidarity with the Indian mission. Amidst the festive display of patriotism by Indians, Nick, a British police officer, was moved enough to join the demonstration in a show of support. Nick approached Indian-origin teenager Iqra Khan, who was joyfully dancing to Bollywood tunes in traditional Indian attire and jewellery to learn some Bollywood steps from her. Their interaction was captured by several onlookers, resulting in a heartwarming moment that quickly spread across social media platforms. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LMVSjvmuDbY Within hours, the video of Iqra and Nick's impromptu dancing garnered wide attention. “After the event when I was having lunch, someone got in touch saying, ‘your video has gone viral’. That's when we started looking it up. I was still having lunch and my video was all over India” shared the elated teenager in an interview. In a few days of the incident Iqra’s video received global attention. “My video
ws.com/newsviews/meet-the-british-indian-teen-who-got-met-police-tapping-to-bollywood-beats" target="_blank" rel="noopener">shared the elated teenager in an interview. In a few days of the incident Iqra’s video received global attention. “My video was on many news channels worldwide and had around 10 million views. I had no words. I was like, wow, I am everywhere,” the teenager remarked.
Despite already having launched her YouTube channel, Ten News India, by that time, the unexpected surge of attention she received was pleasantly surprising. She was happy that people around the world were looking at her. “So many people were saying that this is the best video on the internet and the fact that I was a part of it was really special,” remarked Iqra who has been a pageant finalist in the UK and has modelled for a famous retail brand.
From fame to frames
Iqra has always been in love with the camera and socialising with people. Combining both her interests, she launched her own YouTube show at the age of 11, interviewing singers, artists and poets in the age group of six to 18. Her goal behind the show was to introduce young talent to the world driving in the message that talent knows no age boundaries.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMoETwPmmXk
That experience gave her loads of confidence. “You learn a lot about how to frame questions, to keep an eye on the time and also keep it entertaining.” Later, building on her experience, and seizing the opportunity presented by her viral video, Iqra furthered her hosting journey with a YouTube Channel named 'London Thumakda’. For her channel she has interviewed accomplished celebrities like author Amish Tripathi, actors Adil Hussain and Vinay Pathak, British theatre actor Tom Gribby, casting directors Yvonne Lawlor and Bonnie amongst others.
In the world of pageantry
The teenager loves the glitter and glam of crowns, tiara and the flashing cameras, and to savour the delights of all these she participated in Miss Junior Teen Great Britain contest two years back. It was a long but joyful journey for Iqra who gave auditions for the contest, and then after clearing multiple rounds was selected as a finalist, and later as the grand finalist. “It was a roller coaster of emotions,” she said.
Iqra, who can speak in fluent Hindi despite being raised abroad, felt extremely proud to represent Southeast London in the beauty pageant. “I was really proud to be representing all the brown girls and wanted to win for all the brown girls out there,” Iqra shared.
Even though Iqra was born in the UK and lived in the Middle East for a few years before returning to the UK, her strong attachment to her Indian culture and heritage remains strong. She attributes this deep connection to her upbringing by her parents and her immersion in a large South Asian community during her time in the Middle East.
[caption id="attachment_35639" align="aligncenter" width="481"] Iqra Khan at the 2023 Indian Summer Mela festival at Ipswich, UK[/caption]
She has deep affection for Bollywood songs and finds their infectious beats captivating. "I can't resist them," she admits. "I've been showcasing my love for Bollywood by performing at events, representing various Indian states through dance," she revealed. Performing has been her passion for as long as she can recall. She has given performances for events hosted by UK Heritage Charity and Dartford, Mayor of Croydon to name a few. The teenager aspires to be an actor, has some theatre experience in the UK and has also done modelling for the retail brand Lulu.
(August 22, 2024) Meet Eshna Agrawal, who has an extraordinary academic powerhouse with a deep-rooted passion for STEM and an illustrious track record, is the brain behind the climate change documentary Salary which debuted at the COP28 held in UAE. She has not only earned several international medals in prestigious Olympiads but also possesses a versatile musical talent, holding a Senior Diploma in Hindustani classical vocal music and displaying expertise in Western classical piano. Her martial arts prowess is evident in her red belt in Taekwondo, while her exceptional aptitude in Abacus has crowned her as a Grandmaster in the field. Eshna is a dedicated social activist committed to environmental causes and is a TEDx Countdown speaker. A budding entrepreneur with a fervent enthusiasm for finance, she is all of 17. [caption id="attachment_38908" align="aligncenter" width="494"] Eshna Agrawal[/caption] Early Start Growing up in the embrace of an extended family that encompassed four generations living together under one roof provided Agrawal with a wealth of experiences and a mosaic of perspectives. “From my earliest years, my parents embedded in me the fundamental values of tradition, culture, respect, and hard work, laying the bedrock of my character. Encouraged from a young age to
al with a wealth of experiences and a mosaic of perspectives. “From my earliest years, my parents embedded in me the fundamental values of tradition, culture, respect, and hard work, laying the bedrock of my character. Encouraged from a young age to dream big, their unwavering support has been pivotal. Witnessing my great-grandfather's philanthropy left an enduring impact, shaping my commitment to generosity, social responsibility, humility, and equality. Growing up as an elder sister instilled in me a sense of responsibility,” she tells Global Indian. Her early years in school played a pivotal role in fostering a deep love for learning. Surrounded by an environment that encouraged academic curiosity, she found herself being a naturally inquisitive child. This curiosity led her to explore a diverse range of activities and interests, allowing her to develop into a well-rounded individual.
Wearing Many Hats
Currently studying AS level physics, chemistry, and math at The Sanskaar Valley School, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, she is equally interested in mathematical economics research and robotics. So much so that she has qualified for World Robot Olympiad nationals. Her musical journey began at the tender age of three, culminating in a senior diploma in Hindustani classical vocal music and western classical piano trinity exams. A Taekwondo red belt, she has competed nationally and is an Abacus Grandmaster having cleared all 13 levels, over the last 11 years, and has won various international, national, and regional competitions. She is involved in several projects involving education inequality, gender inequality, carbon credits, and social entrepreneurship.
With several internships in various sectors- banking, finance, management, sustainability, she is also a TEDx Speaker.
She is the Director, Producer, Voiceover artist/ Narrator, Writer, Interviewer, Director of Photography, Researcher, Marketer and distributor of Salary, a documentary about climate change’s effect on the salt industry and an indigenous tribe Agariya that had a World Premiere at UN COP 28 in December 2023. “Salary explores the profound impact of climate change on India's traditional salt industry and the Agariyas, the indigenous salt harvesters. It highlights the crucial role these communities play in maintaining a vital resource for diverse applications, from daily needs to advanced technology,” she says, adding, “The documentary vividly illustrates how escalating climate change, manifesting in altered weather patterns and rising temperatures, threatens this delicate industry. As salt production dwindles, global repercussions loom. The film combines striking visuals and personal narratives to demonstrate the intricate link between climate sustainability and the increasingly vulnerable practice of traditional salt harvesting.”
Balancing Act
She attributes achieving success in both academics and extracurriculars to a robust support system that comes from unwavering faith and guidance from her teachers and the senior management team at school. “They have not only provided invaluable guidance but have also created an environment that fosters growth and exploration. Additionally, my parents play a crucial role in helping me maintain balance and coordination between academics and extracurricular pursuits, ensuring a holistic and well-rounded approach to my education,” says Agrawal.
[caption id="attachment_38910" align="aligncenter" width="682"] A still from Salary[/caption]
Eco Warrior
In her capacity as a 17-year-old environmental activist, she has spearheaded various projects aimed at achieving net-zero goals, promoting environmental consciousness through corporate social responsibility, and advocating for the adoption of renewable energy. “A pivotal aspect of my activism involves creating awareness, and my documentary, centred on climate change's impact on the salt industry and an indigenous tribe, serves as a powerful tool for this purpose. Additionally, I recently delivered a TEDx talk, further amplifying the message,” says Agrawal. Contrary to perceiving her age as a hindrance, she views it as her greatest asset in this advocacy.
“Our generation bears the responsibility of dealing with the consequences of environmental issues, compelling us to take decisive action. I believe our youthfulness not only empowers us to make a substantial impact but also enhances our ability to convey a sense of urgency and sincerity, making our voices resonate more effectively in the realm of environmental activism. Rather than viewing climate change solely as a threat, we, as hopeful young advocates, perceive it as an opportunity. It's a chance for individuals, companies, and nations to unite, fostering innovation, economic growth, and a sense of interconnectedness that transcends discrimination, emphasizing our shared humanity. This optimistic approach shapes our commitment to environmental causes, viewing them not only as responsibilities but as avenues for positive transformation and a more sustainable future,” she adds.
Entrepreneurial Role
In her pursuit as a budding entrepreneur, she has engaged in diverse experiences to cultivate a well-rounded skill set. Her roles have extended to encompass accounting and fund management, and she has assumed responsibilities as a workshop supervisor intern. “Growing up in a business-oriented family, our dinner table conversations have naturally revolved around business dynamics, sparking, and nurturing my innate interest in entrepreneurship. My goal is to establish and lead my own company, leveraging the invaluable insights gained from these experiences,” she says. Recognising the critical challenge of climate change, she views it not only as a problem but also as a substantial opportunity for innovation, business, and employment. “In my entrepreneurial journey, I aspire to integrate sustainability by adopting a PPP approach: prioritising People, Planet, and Prosperity. By aligning business endeavours with these principles, I aim to contribute to positive change while building a successful and socially responsible enterprise,” she says.
Learning Blocks
Overcoming challenges has been a dynamic process, rooted in resilience and a problem-solving mindset. Whether navigating the complexities of academic pursuits or tackling obstacles in extracurricular endeavours, she approaches challenges as opportunities for growth. Leveraging a robust support system, including mentors, teachers, and family, has provided invaluable guidance during challenging times. “Additionally, cultivating adaptability and maintaining a positive outlook have been instrumental. Each challenge becomes a chance to learn, adapt, and emerge stronger, reinforcing my belief that setbacks are stepping stones to success,” she says. Several valuable lessons have shaped her journey thus far. “Firstly, perseverance is key; facing challenges with resilience has consistently led to growth. Secondly, the importance of a support system cannot be overstated; mentors, teachers, and family play pivotal roles. Thirdly, a proactive and adaptable mindset is crucial in navigating the dynamic landscape of both academics and personal pursuits. Furthermore, the significance of continuous learning and curiosity has been underscored, fuelling my diverse interests. Lastly, the understanding that setbacks are integral to the journey, providing opportunities for reflection and improvement, has been a guiding principle,” says Agrawal.
Looking Ahead
In her free time, she likes to be informed about global news across various sectors, fostering a broader perspective. As a passionate foodie, she indulges in trying diverse foods and cuisines, savouring the cultural richness each dish offers. “Like any typical teenager, I relish spending quality time with my family, going out with friends, and creating memorable moments while blasting music on drives,” she smiles. Her next plans include pursuing a degree in engineering, channelling her passion for STEM subjects into academic and professional endeavours.
“I aim to delve into innovative projects, contribute to technological advancements, and ultimately carve a path that allows me to make a meaningful impact to my community. I am driven by a passion for entrepreneurship. I aspire to channel my technical knowledge into creating a business venture that not only embraces innovation but also prioritizes social impact. With a focus on environmental sustainability and addressing societal challenges, I aim to establish a business that contributes positively to both the technological landscape and the community. My vision encompasses leveraging my engineering skills to not only drive technological advancements but also to establish a business with a strong commitment to making a meaningful and lasting social impact,” she says. She is working towards launching a school for Agariya children, in collaboration with NGOs.