Mangaluru: The fifth edition of TEDxStAloysius, themed “Unwritten Threads of Thoughts,” was inaugurated at LF Rasquinha Hall, LCRI Block, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), marking another milestone in the institution’s commitment to intellectual dialogue and youth engagement.
The programme was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Adv. P Ranjan Rao, along with other dignitaries on the dais.
Education as a pillar of nation-building
Addressing the gathering, Adv. P Ranjan Rao expressed gratitude to Vice-Chancellor Rev. Dr Praveen Martis SJ and Staff Convenor Dr Dinesh Nayak for the invitation. Calling himself a proud Aloysian, he remarked that returning to the institution always brings joy and pride.
He emphasised that education remains the most powerful instrument in nation-building and expressed confidence that every Aloysian graduate possesses the potential to scale great heights and contribute meaningfully to society.
Reflections on thought and courage
Guest of Honour Mr Gavin Mathias, CEO of Mathias Aluminium Systems Pvt Ltd, reflected on how fear subtly influences thoughts, often disguising itself as logical reasoning. He stated that powerful shifts in life begin not with applause but with invisible and unspoken thoughts that eventually shape action.
Presiding over the event, Vice-Chancellor Rev. Dr Praveen Martis SJ highlighted the significance of the fifth edition of TEDxStAloysius and acknowledged the efforts of staff and students in organising the event. He encouraged students to draw inspiration from the speakers’ journeys rather than imitate them.
Quoting Dr A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, he reminded students that dreams lead to thoughts, which in turn lead to action. He urged them to apply Aloysian values of perseverance, passion and integrity in their professional paths.
Diverse lineup of speakers
The 2026 edition features a diverse lineup of ten speakers:
- Hritik Sharma – Entrepreneur, educator and podcaster
- Simrun Chopra – Certified nutritionist and fitness coach
- Mariyam Hussain – Fashion stylist and content creator
- Dr P. P. Devan – Veteran ENT specialist
- Leeza Kiran Rodrigues – Educator and wellness practitioner
- Advika Shetty – Nationally recognised dancer and Yakshagana artiste
- Zabi Khan – Animal rights activist and United Nations awardee
- Prashanth S. Nayaka – Founder of ChaayaArtLight and award-winning filmmaker
- Colonel Arun Iyer – Indian Army veteran
- Hemant Sharma – Co-founder of Claygrounds by Plaza
The event was welcomed by Dr Dinesh Nayak, Staff Convenor, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Ms Aldrina A. M., Staff Co-convenor. The programme was compered by Ms Sheba Ann Saju.
The second day of TEDxStAloysius 2026 is scheduled for February 22, 2026, at the same venue, beginning at 9:30 am, and will continue with thought-provoking sessions and discussions.
