Theme: Order from Chaos

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).

Jawanga Auditorium
Jawanga Auditorium
Near NMDC Polytechnic College, Geedam
Dantewada, Chhattisgarh, 494449
India

Ajay Kumar Mandavi

Founder, Shanta Art; Artist and Rehabilitation Mentor

Ajay Kumar Mandavi is not just an artist—he’s a transformer of lives. A master of wooden calligraphy art, he has spent over a decade teaching his craft to inmates in Kanker Jail, many of whom were once involved in the Naxalite movement. But his role goes beyond art; he is a mentor, counselor, and guiding light, helping prisoners find purpose, peace, and a path back into society. Through his Shanta Art initiative, he has empowered hundreds of former inmates, turning ex-rebels into skilled artisans who now create intricate wooden masterpieces instead of wielding weapons. His journey proves that art can heal, redemption is possible, and second chances can carve out a whole new future.

Akash Badave

Founder, Bhoomgaadi Organic Farmers’ Producer Company | Rural Changemaker | Organic Farming Advocate

Akash Badave left a corporate career at Barclays to become a rural changemaker in Dantewada. As founder of Bhoomgaadi Organic Farmers’ Producer Company, he empowers 3,000 tribal farmers—many women—to practice organic farming and connect directly to urban markets. Since 2013, Akash has championed preserving indigenous crops, promoting sustainable livelihoods, and making Dantewada a 100% organic district. His work exemplifies how grassroots initiatives can transform agriculture and communities.

Chitrasen Sahu

Disability Rights Activist | Para-Mountaineer | Founder, Mission Inclusion

Chitrasen Sahu, known as the “Half Human Robo,” is a para-mountaineer, national wheelchair basketball player, and disability rights activist. After losing both legs in a train accident, he became India’s first double amputee to scale Mount Elbrus, Kilimanjaro, and Kosciuszko. Through his initiative, Mission Inclusion, he empowers people with disabilities, fights for accessibility and representation, and has even driven policy change—helping amputees gain the right to drive. His journey is an inspiring testament to resilience and the human spirit.

Devaji Tofa

Tribal Rights Leader | Gram Sabha Activist | Architect of Mendha (Lekha)’s Self-Governance Model

Devaji Tofa is the visionary tribal leader from Mendha (Lekha), Maharashtra, who pioneered India’s first village-led governance model. With the motto “Amchya Gavat Amhich Sarkar” (“We are the government in our village”), he empowered his community to secure rights over local resources—including becoming the first village in India to issue bamboo transit permits. Once a school drop-out and now a D.Litt. recipient, Devaji has become a national symbol of grassroots democracy, environmental stewardship, and indigenous empowerment. His legacy continues to inspire self-reliant rural transformation across the country.

Niranjali Soni

National & International Kickboxer | Youth Athlete

Niranjali Soni is a 9th-grade student and accomplished kickboxer from Dantewada. With four years of training, she has won 3 gold and 4 silver medals at national and international competitions held in Korba, Kolkata, Jammu, Nepal, and Goa. Beyond sport, Niranjali views kickboxing as a source of confidence and discipline. Her dream is to reach greater heights and inspire young girls in her community to pursue their ambitions fearlessly.

Phoolbasan Bai Yadav

Social Entrepreneur | Founder, Maa Bamleshwari Janhit Kare Samiti | Padma Shri Awardee

Phoolbasan Bai Yadav is a Padma Shri awardee and grassroots leader who turned her journey from child bride to changemaker into a movement for over 200,000 women in Chhattisgarh. As the founder of Maa Bamleshwari Janhit Kare Samiti, she leads 12,000+ women’s self-help groups that work on health, education, sanitation, and livelihood initiatives. Her efforts have mobilized over ₹150 million in community-driven impact through micro-enterprises, social reform, and mutual support. Phoolbasan’s story is a powerful example of how determination and unity can transform entire communities.

Pranith Simha

Founder & Executive Director, Bachpan Banao | Education Reformer | Youth Leadership Mentor

Pranith Simha is the Founder & Executive Director of Bachpan Banao, a grassroots organization revitalizing public education in Dantewada, Chhattisgarh. A dropout from IISER Pune, he found his calling in education through Disha, a student initiative for slum children. Since 2012, he has led transformative programs like Padhe Dantewada-Likhe Dantewada and Sapno Ki Shala, an alternative school promoting democratic learning. His latest work focuses on youth-led children’s libraries that foster creativity and safety. A speaker at global forums, including the Harvard India Conference, Pranith continues to drive inclusive, community-based change in education.

Rajeev Ranjan Prasad

Author & Researcher | Cultural Storyteller

Rajeev Ranjan Prasad is an environmental scientist, author, and storyteller dedicated to documenting the rich tribal heritage and history of Bastar and Dantewada. As General Manager (Environment) at NHPC Ltd., he balances his professional role with his passion for uncovering forgotten narratives through his book “Dantkshetra” and numerous articles. Awarded the Nagari Bhushan Samman 2024, Rajeev advocates for cultural preservation and sustainable development in Chhattisgarh’s forests and communities. His work bridges science, history, and storytelling to inspire engagement with the region’s past and future.

Suneeta Godbole

Healthcare Activist | Tribal Health Advocate

Dr. Suneeta Godbole, along with her husband Dr. Ramchandra Godbole, has devoted her life to providing healthcare services in the forests of Dantewada, Chhattisgarh. Operating from their home in Barsur village, they run mobile clinics and medical camps to reach underserved tribal populations. Their efforts have significantly improved health outcomes and fostered hope in remote areas. Dr. Suneeta’s work is a powerful example of how grassroots medical care can bridge healthcare disparities in marginalized communities.

Vicky Roy

Photographer | Visual Storyteller | Social Change Advocate

Vicky Roy’s journey began at age 11, fleeing an abusive home to survive on the streets of New Delhi. Rescued by the Salaam Balak Trust, he found his calling in photography. Starting as an apprentice, Vicky’s unique vision gained international recognition with exhibitions worldwide and inclusion in Forbes Asia’s “30 under 30” in 2016. His story embodies resilience and the power of art to transform lives and inspire social change.

Vidya Rajput

Transgender Rights Activist | President, Mitwa Sankalp Samiti

Vidya Rajput is a fearless transgender rights activist and a member of the National Council for Transgender Persons under the Government of India. As President of the Chhattisgarh Mitwa Sankalp Samiti, she has led grassroots efforts to provide education, healthcare, and livelihoods for the transgender community. Her advocacy has helped break barriers—enabling transgender individuals to join the state police, access government schemes, and enter mainstream employment. Honored with the Kamla Bhasin Award and the Pandit Ravishankar Shukla Award, Vidya continues to be a powerful voice for dignity, inclusion, and systemic change.