At IIM Bodh Gaya, TEDx Inspires Students to Think Differently and Challenge the Crowd
By Staff Reporter
February 11, 2026
The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bodh Gaya recently hosted TEDxIIMBG, a powerful event that brought together students, educators, industry leaders, and young changemakers under one roof. The theme of the event, “Unfollow the Trend,” aimed to encourage participants to question popular beliefs about success, careers, and leadership.
Inauguration and Welcome
The event commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the start of knowledge and enlightenment. It was inaugurated by Dr. Vinita S. Sahay, the Director of IIM Bodh Gaya, and Dr. Deepika R. Gupta, Chairperson of the Entrepreneurship and Industrial Relations Cell. Both leaders welcomed the audience and emphasized the importance of independent thinking in today’s rapidly changing world.
Inspirational Speakers
The stage featured several renowned speakers from diverse fields, each sharing personal stories and life lessons that resonated with the event’s theme. Notable speakers included:
- Ameya V. Karrambe from LEAP India
- Dhananjay Ganjoo from The Akshaya Patra Foundation
- Bhavesh Jain of TransUnion CIBIL
- Shriya Lohia, a Formula 4 racer
- Dr. Shrikant Vadapalli from Jio Platforms
- Yogesh Sharma from eClerx
- Nikhil Garg from ArcelorMittal
- Rishav Agarwal, founder of Picxele
Key Takeaways from the Talks
Each speaker provided unique insights and experiences that encouraged the audience to think critically about their own paths:
- Shriya Lohia shared her journey in professional racing, highlighting that success often begins even when the path is unclear. She encouraged students to remain disciplined, work consistently, and trust their instincts.
- Dr. Shrikant Vadapalli discussed the significance of personal character and responsibility, explaining how small daily choices can shape a person’s future.
- Nikhil Garg addressed issues in modern workplaces, noting that many employees feel disconnected not due to lack of interest, but because organizations fail to create supportive environments.
The Importance of Real-Life Experiences
The event served as a reminder that learning extends beyond traditional classroom settings. TEDxIIMBG illustrated how sharing real-life experiences can enhance students’ understanding of the world and prepare them for future challenges. The discussions prompted participants to reflect on their own goals, question conventional thinking, and build confidence in their decision-making.
IIM Bodh Gaya: A Leading Management Institute
Now in its tenth year, IIM Bodh Gaya continues to establish itself as a leading management institute in India. The institution is dedicated to developing socially responsible managers and emotionally resilient leaders through a blend of classroom learning, live projects, and industry exposure. Events like TEDxIIMBG exemplify IIM Bodh Gaya’s commitment to shaping thoughtful leaders who are prepared to create positive change in society.
Conclusion
In conclusion, TEDxIIMBG was not just an event; it was a movement encouraging students to think outside the box and challenge the status quo. By fostering an environment of open dialogue and innovative thinking, IIM Bodh Gaya is paving the way for the next generation of leaders who will undoubtedly make a significant impact in their respective fields.
Note: This article reflects the events and discussions that took place during TEDxIIMBG, aiming to inspire students and promote independent thinking.
