CM graces JK Public School’s first TEDx
STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: Ideas worth spreading illuminated the Nelsum Millennium Hall at J.K. Public School, Kunjwani, as the institution proudly hosted its first-ever TEDx event.
The landmark occasion united thought leaders, achievers, and visionaries from across diverse fields, inspiring the students, faculty and guests with stories of resilience, innovation and courage.
TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) is a globally renowned platform devoted to spreading powerful ideas through short, impactful talks. TEDx, its independently organized extension, is designed to bring communities together for a TED-like experience. In the same spirit, TEDx JKPS Youth showcased a stellar lineup of speakers whose ideas ignited conversations and promised lasting change.
The gathering was warmly welcomed by Principal Rajesh Rathore, who expressed his pride in bringing such a remarkable platform to the JKPS Kunjwani family. Extending a special welcome to the Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, he described him as a man of letters-deeply admired for his intellect, eloquence and love for literature.
Rathore highlighted his humility and simplicity as hallmarks of true leadership, calling him a statesman who embodies culture and dignity in equal measure.
He also reflected on the legacy of J.K. Public School, Kunjwani, one of the pioneering schools of Jammu, committed to nurturing values, talent and excellence for decades.
The event was graced by the Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir (UT), Omar Abdullah; Raj Daluja, Chairman, J.K. Educational Society; Patron, Davinder Daluja and Neelam Daluja, members of the management Siddarth Daluja and Gautam Daluja; Shashi Choudhury, Director JK Educational Society; Rajesh Rathore, Principal, JKPS Kunjwani; and Roopinder Kaur, Vice Principal; Inderjeet Kour, School Coordinator alongside Wing coordinators, staff and an enthusiastic student fraternity.
Adding to the grandeur were eminent educationists, entrepreneurs, social activists, and cultural icons, making the occasion a vibrant confluence of knowledge and inspiration.
Speaking on the theme “Beyond Boundaries”, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah invoked the timeless words of Faiz Ahmad Faiz:
“Challe Chalo Ki Woh Manzil Abhi Nahin Aayi Hai.”
He reminded the audience that boundaries-whether imposed by society, stereotypes, or self-doubt-are meant to be transcended. “We are told girls cannot play football or that boys should not cry. These are not truths, but limitations born of insecurity,” he said. Urging students never to let boundaries restrict their dreams, he inspired them to aim for the highest peaks.
His address concluded with Mirza Ghalib’s immortal lines, leaving the hall echoing with reflection and hope:
“Hazaaron khwahishen aisi ke
har khwahish pe dam nikle,
Bahut nikle mere armaan,
lekin phir bhi kam nikle
The stage was illuminated by a distinguished panel of speakers:
Usha Mani, celebrated educational speaker, challenged the audience to break the “LOC of the heart” – invisible boundaries of fear and self-doubt. With the powerful shift from “Why me?” to “Why not me?” she urged everyone to embrace courage and positivity as pathways to true empowerment.
Prof. Amitabh Mattoo, Padma Shri awardee and eminent academician, stressed that the world today needs security, ideas and innovation. He highlighted the role of digital infrastructure in shaping India’s future, but reminded that real progress must be guided by values, peace-building and visionary youth leadership.
Prof. Shakti Kumar Gupta, Founder Executive Director & CEO, AIIMS Jammu, shared his phenomenal journey in healthcare. “Boundaries are not walls to stop us; they are meant to be crossed,” he said. With humility and wisdom, he emphasized compassion in medicine, citing AIIMS Jammu’s recognition as a “Pain-Free Hospital” as a testimony to collective dedication and service.
Major Samar Pall Singh Toorr, JKPS alumnus and Infantry Combat Veteran, spoke of resilience through personal trials and his life in the Army. From loneliness in childhood to rebuilding his life after grave challenges, he reminded the audience: “Giving up is the easiest thing, but real strength lies in facing the storm.”
Sunita Thawani, Corporate leader and CEO of Full Circle, shed light on women’s leadership and the urgent need to address workplace harassment. She called for creating safe, inclusive spaces for women and urged society to unite in dignity, respect, and shared humanity.
Advitya Sharma, entrepreneur and EdTech innovator, shared his journey from introvert to inspiration. His message: “Clarity gives focus, focus builds conviction and conviction-when articulated well-leads to success.” He inspired the youth to embrace clarity, courage and authenticity in the AI-driven era.
Rahul Pandita, JKPS alumnus, entrepreneur and global diplomat, recounted his struggles with shyness and stammering. His breakthrough moment came when a teacher believed in him, igniting his confidence. With humour and candour, he reminded: “Life stammers for everyone in different ways. The lesson is to confront it, not hide from it.”
Anshika Sharma, Grade XI student of JKPS, gave voice to youth leadership reminding that creativity and unity empower young people to be agents of change.
The event celebrated curiosity, creativity and critical thinking. Each story resonated deeply urging the audience to embrace possibilities and move beyond boundaries.
Delivering the Vote of Thanks, Gautam Daluja, Member of Management, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Guest, dignitaries, media, teachers and students. He emphasized that the success of such platforms lies in collective vision, passion and execution.
The inaugural TEDx at JKPS Kunjwani was not just an event-it was a movement. With its stellar lineup of speakers, enthusiastic participation of students, and the gracious presence of Hon’ble Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the occasion became a historic milestone in the school’s journey. It set a new benchmark in nurturing thought leadership, proving once again that at JKPS, education transcends classrooms to become an experience of ideas, inspiration and transformation.
