TEDxLucknow

Speakers

Speakers may not be confirmed. Check the event website for the latest lineup.

• Alok Ranjan

  Former Chief Secretary Uttar Pradesh

  Mr. Alok Ranjan, former Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh, is a distinguished civil servant known for his exemplary leadership, administrative acumen, and commitment to public service. With decades of experience in governance, he has played a pivotal role in shaping policy, driving large-scale development initiatives, and strengthening institutional frameworks in one of India’s most complex and populous states. His work reflects a deep understanding of balancing growth with inclusivity, ensuring that governance remains responsive, transparent, and impactful. Beyond administration, Mr. Ranjan brings valuable insights into leadership under pressure, decision-making in dynamic environments, and the importance of ethical governance. His journey offers a compelling perspective on how systems evolve, how change is implemented, and how individuals in positions of responsibility can create lasting societal impact.

• Amit Rai

  Film Director & Writer

  Amit Rai is an acclaimed Indian film director and writer known for his compelling storytelling and socially relevant cinema. He received the prestigious Gollapudi Srinivas Award in 2010 for his directorial debut Road to Sangam, a film that reflected his sensitivity towards complex human and societal narratives. As an associate director, he contributed to the critically acclaimed Marathi film Tingya, which garnered multiple national and international awards. After a significant hiatus, Amit Rai made a powerful comeback with OMG 2 (2023), the sequel to the widely loved Oh My God!. The film resonated strongly with audiences and critics alike, achieving both commercial success and meaningful impact. His work on OMG 2 earned him the 69th Filmfare Award for Best Story in 2024 starring Akshay Kumar, Yami Gautam and Pankaj Tripathi. Amit Rai’s journey reflects resilience, creative conviction, and the power of storytelling to spark dialogue and societal reflection.

• Madhvi Kukreja

  Social Entrepreneur | Founder Sanatkada - Celebration of Awadhi Culture

  Madhvi Kukreja is a distinguished social activist and founder of Sanatkada, a unique cultural initiative that celebrates and revives the rich heritage of Awadh while fostering inclusive community spaces. Through Sanatkada, she has curated platforms that bring together artisans, artists, and communities, preserving traditional crafts, stories, and cultural expressions while making them relevant for contemporary audiences. Her work goes beyond preservation—it creates livelihoods, empowers women, and builds bridges across diverse social groups. Deeply committed to equality beyond caste, religion, and gender, Her compassionate leadership and vision of harmony—where tradition and inclusivity coexist—have earned her wide recognition. Madhvi Kukreja continues to demonstrate how culture, when nurtured thoughtfully, can become a powerful force for community empowerment and social transformation.

• Prachee Shah Paandya

  Kathak Exopnent | Actress | Guinness World Record Holder

  Prachee Shah Paandya is a renowned Kathak exponent, accomplished actress, and a Guinness World Record holder, celebrated for her artistry, versatility, and dedication to Indian classical traditions. Trained in the Jaipur Gharana, she combines technical brilliance with expressive storytelling, bringing Kathak to diverse audiences across India and the world. Her record-setting 93 Kathak spins in one minute stands as a testament to her discipline, precision, and mastery. Beyond classical dance, Prachee has made a significant mark in theatre, television, and cinema, seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary expression. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to preserving cultural heritage while making it relevant for modern audiences. Through her work, she embodies the power of art to transcend boundaries, connect generations, and communicate emotions beyond language, inspiring audiences with a harmonious blend of grace, strength, and storytelling.

• Sanjay Nigam

  Fashion Entrepreneur

  Sanjay Nigam is a visionary fashion entrepreneur and the Founder of the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF), a pioneering platform that supports and scales emerging talent in the fashion ecosystem. With a sharp eye for innovation and a deep understanding of the business of fashion, he has created impactful initiatives such as “Pitch to Get Rich,” enabling entrepreneurs to transform creative ideas into viable ventures, and the Fashion Entrepreneur Awards, which celebrate excellence and emerging leaders in the industry. His work bridges creativity with capital, mentorship, and market access, empowering designers and entrepreneurs to build sustainable businesses. Through FEF, Sanjay Nigam is redefining how fashion entrepreneurship is nurtured in India, fostering a new generation of creators who are both artistically driven and business-savvy, and contributing to a more dynamic and inclusive fashion economy.