CHAPTER 4
TEDxGIM 2023 Speakers and Performers
Vaibhav Kanwar
Founder & CEO, Clapbox | Entrepreneur | Storyteller
As the CEO of ‘CLAPBOX,’ Vaibhav Kanwar spearheads a musical revolution from his base in New Delhi, India. A renowned freelance drummer and Cajon Player, he not only graces various bands as a session drummer but also imparts his rhythmic wisdom at numerous teaching venues. With a dedication to nurturing talent, he is a sought-after workshop leader in music academies, shaping the drummers of tomorrow.
Under his visionary leadership, ‘CLAPBOX’ has emerged as India’s premier distributor of musical instruments, boasting a diverse range including Cajons, Djembes, Practice Pads, and an array of percussion instruments and accessories. Join us as Vaibhav Kanwar shares his extraordinary journey, blending passion, expertise, and entrepreneurial flair on the TEDx stage
Sumedha Sengupta
Odissi Dancer | Teacher | Researcher | Programme Assistant, IGNCA
She is an accomplished Odissi dancer representing India’s rich cultural heritage. She started her journey at the tender age of 5 years under the guidance of Late Guru Shri Giridhari Nayak. The evocative and vivid story she tells through her expressions, mudras, and fluid footwork creates an immersive experience that connects seamlessly with the audience. She serves as a Programme Assistant at the prestigious Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) and is also an excellent Odissi dancer.
Vidushi Debasmita Bhattacharya
Eminent Sarod maestro | Cultural Trailblazer | Global Ambassador of Classical Music
She is a renowned Global icon. A sarod player born in India known for her deep mastery of Indian classical raga music and cross-cultural collaborations. Born into a musical family, her first Guru (Teacher) was her father, Sarod maestro Pandit Debasish Bhattacharya, and later she took intense long tali under the esteemed guidance of Padmabhushan Pandit Buddhadev Dasgupta. As a female sarod player, Debasmita has garnered national and international acclaim, breaking barriers and blending classical tradition with modern innovation in Indian music.
Balaji Vittal
Author and Columnist | Bollywood Commentator | Public Speaker
Balaji Vittal is a National Award and MAMI Award winning author of Bollywood books, a Columnist for leading newspapers, a Bollywood Commentator, and a Public Speaker at prestigious forums including literary festivals He is the co-author of the National Award-winning book, RD Burman: The Man, The Music, and the MAMI Award-winning book, Gaata Rahe Mera Dil- 50 Classic Hindi Film Songs. He is also a columnist for leading newspapers, Bollywood commentator and a public speaker.
J Venugopal
Internationally acclaimed Sand Artist | Painter | Illustrator
He is a globally acclaimed sand artist who uses his hands and sand to create emotions and expressions through art, he intricately weaves emotions and concepts through his delicate art form. With over 900 performances worldwide, he seizes every opportunity to showcase his creative prowess. He is also a caricature artist, painter, graphic designer and cartoonist. His ability to grasp concepts and express them through sand has left an unforgettable mark on the national and international stage.
Jhelum Biswas
Flower Psychometrist | Entrepreneur | Editor | Wellness Innovator | Author of “Phool Proof”
Jhelum Biswas is a multifaceted personality, known for her innovative approach to beauty and wellness. She is the founder of ‘Jhelum Loves’, a brand that specializes in Bach Flower remedies-based beauty products. Her book, “Phool Proof,” reflects her passion and knowledge, focusing on Indian flowers, their myths, traditions, and usage. Jhelum’s work is a blend of her expertise as a former beauty editor and her deep understanding of the healing power of flowers.
Sephi Bergerson
Photographer | Cultural Explorer | Visual Storyteller
Sephi Bergerson is an award-winning humanitarian photographer and author, renowned for his vivid documentary and corporate photography in India. He is also an NGO and Humanitarian photographer. He clinched gold in the Budapest International Foto Awards 2023 for his series of images titled “Distraction,” which tells the story of an acid attack survivor. His works have been published in many big magazines like The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes and many more His acclaimed works, including “Street Food of India,” “Behind the Indian Veil,” and innovative iPhone photography projects, showcase a rich tapestry of Indian culture and life.
Amit Sana
Pop Artist | Playback Singer | Live Performer | Indian Idol 1 Finalist
He is renowned for his stirring performance as a finalist in the first season of “Indian Idol” hosted in 2004 and is a celebrated Indian pop artist and playback singer. Born and raised in Bhilai, Chhattisgarh, Amit’s musical roots were nurtured through early classical training, leading him to excel in various music competitions. His post-Indian Idol career saw the successful release of his debut album “Chal Diye” in 2005 and “Yaadein” in 2008, reflecting his dynamic vocal ability and artistic versatility. Amit’s contributions to movie soundtracks further exemplify his talent and adaptability, solidifying his position in the Indian music industry.
