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- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

#Indian Stars

Sports Spirit

Satwik–Chirag Make History at BWF World Tour Finals with Comeback Win

Indian badminton witnessed a landmark moment on Wednesday when Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty achieved what no Indian men’s doubles pair had done before. At the prestigious BWF World Tour Finals 2025 in Hangzhou, the World No. 3 Indian duo scripted history by winning a group-stage match, marking a breakthrough at the season-ending tournament. Their victory came against formidable opponents, China’s Liang Wei Keng and Wang Chang, the Paris 2024 Olympic silver medallists, making the achievement even more special. The straight-from-the-heart celebration that followed reflected not just a win, but years of persistence paying off on the biggest stage.The Challenge of the World Tour FinalsThe BWF World Tour Finals is unlike any other tournament. Only the top eight pairs in the world qualify, and every match feels like a final. For Satwik and Chirag, this event carried extra emotional weight. Their previous appearance in 2021 was cut short by injuries, denying them the chance to truly test themselves among the elite. Returning to the tournament in 2025, fully fit and seeded third, the Indian pair knew that reputation alone would not be enough. They would need patience, tactical clarity, and mental strength to survive in a group stacked with Olympic and world championship medalists.A Shaky Start Against the Home FavouritesThe match began on even footing, with both pairs trading points and the score locked at 7–7 in the opening game. But the Chinese duo soon took control, using sharp angles and relentless pressure to pull away to an 11–7 lead at the interval. Satwik and Chirag struggled to find rhythm as Liang and Wang tightened their grip. The Indians managed only five more points as the first game slipped away 12–21. It was one of the most one-sided games between the two pairs in their 11 meetings, and for a moment, the challenge of the World Tour Finals seemed overwhelming.Finding Belief When It Mattered MostGreat players are defined by how they respond under pressure, and the second game revealed the true character of the Indian pair. Satwik and Chirag came out with renewed aggression, attacking the net and lifting the tempo. Their intent translated into an 11–7 lead at the mid-game interval, and soon they surged ahead 18–12. Just when it appeared they would force a decider comfortably, nerves crept in. The Chinese pair mounted a stunning comeback, winning seven consecutive points and pushing the game to a tense tie-break. It was a moment that could have broken many teams. Instead, Satwik and Chirag held their nerve. Refusing to panic, they closed out the game 22–20. That single game changed the momentum of the match—and perhaps their World Tour Finals story.Closing It Out in Champion StyleWith confidence flowing, the Indians entered the decider with clarity and composure. The third game was fiercely contested, but Satwik and Chirag maintained a slim 11–9 lead at the interval. From there, they shifted gears, mixing power with precision and cutting down unforced errors. The Chinese resistance faded as the Indian pair pulled away to seal the match 21–14, completing a memorable comeback in 60 minutes. It was only their fourth win in 11 encounters against Liang and Wang, but arguably their most significant. The 12–21, 22–20, and 21–14 victories carried historic weight. It made Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty the first Indian men’s doubles pair to ever win a match at the BWF World Tour Finals.  Their honesty also showed maturity. Chirag acknowledged the missed opportunity in the second game, admitting they should have closed it out earlier. The Road Ahead in HangzhouWith this historic victory, Satwik and Chirag have taken a crucial step in Group B. They will next face Indonesia’s Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Shohibul Fikri, another stern test that will demand the same intensity and composure. Regardless of what follows, this win has already carved a special place in Indian badminton history. It is a reminder that progress is often slow, but when it arrives, it changes the narrative forever. 

18 Dec 2025
Sports Spirit

Good News

Passion on Two Wheels: How Three Young Minds Engineered India’s First AI-Powered Self-Driving Bike

In a small workshop in Surat, Gujarat, three mechanical engineering students, Shivam Maurya, Gurpreet Arora, and Ganesh Patil, set out to challenge what most believed was impossible. Their dream? To build a bike that could balance, navigate, and ride on its own. It was not just another college project; it was their way of proving that India’s young innovators can compete with the world’s best. The trio named their creation Garuda, inspired by the mythological bird symbolizing strength and speed. They didn’t have access to high-end labs or million-dollar funding. What they had was belief and a garage filled with scrap metal, a few tools, and sleepless nights.Built from Scrap, Powered by VisionGaruda isn’t just a motorcycle; it’s a symbol of Indian ingenuity. Half of its structure was built from recycled materials, showing that innovation doesn’t always need expensive resources, just creative thinking. Over the span of one year, the students invested ₹1.8 lakh, mostly from their own savings, to design and develop the prototype. Inspired by giants like Tesla, they envisioned a smart two-wheeler that could one day operate without a rider, blending artificial intelligence, safety, and sustainability.The Brain Behind the MachineAt the core of Garuda lies a Raspberry Pi system, acting as the motorcycle’s “brain.” It allows the bike to make decisions, respond to voice commands, and even ride autonomously. The system connects through Wi-Fi, enabling real-time communication between the rider and the machine. Commands like “stop,” “slow down,” or “navigate” can be spoken, and the bike responds instantly. Safety wasn’t an afterthought. Garuda is equipped with dual high-range sensors that constantly scan the road ahead. If another vehicle comes within 12 feet, the bike automatically slows down. If an obstacle is detected within three feet, it stops completely without any human intervention. The students even added a touchscreen display with GPS navigation, phone connectivity, music options, and live video feeds from both front and rear cameras. A wireless charger ensures riders never run out of power on the go. Under the hood, a lithium-ion battery powers the bike, offering up to 220 km in Eco mode and 160 km in Sport mode, with a full recharge in just two hours.A Creation That Deserved the SpotlightWhen the prototype was unveiled, Garuda stunned everyone who saw it in action. A self-driving motorcycle made by three Indian students—something even global tech companies had struggled to perfect—was now a reality. While the world celebrates innovations from Silicon Valley, the brilliance brewing in Indian college labs often fades in silence. These students didn’t seek fame or fortune; they sought acknowledgment. Their invention could pave the way for AI-driven mobility solutions in India, smart vehicles that reduce accidents, improve traffic efficiency, and inspire eco-friendly transport design. Yet, their story barely made it beyond campus walls.Dreams on Two WheelsWhat makes Garuda special is not just its technology; it’s the emotion behind it. These young men built it out of passion, not profit. They spent nights troubleshooting circuits, learning new coding languages, and welding scrap pieces together because they believed India could create its own innovations, not just import them. They remind us that brilliance can come from anywhere: a rural workshop, a modest college lab, or even a junkyard filled with discarded metal. Their journey speaks to every Indian youth who has a dream bigger than their circumstances.  While Garuda remains a prototype, its future potential is limitless. With proper funding and research support, it could evolve into a commercially viable product, redefining India’s role in smart mobility.The Flight of GarudaGaruda may not have made headlines, but it made history in its own right. It symbolizes every young Indian mind that chooses creation and courage over comfort, and innovation over imitation. These students from Surat didn’t just build a self-driving bike; they built hope on two wheels. And somewhere in their story lies a reminder for all of us: Talent doesn’t need a stage to shine; it needs recognition to rise.

14 Nov 2025
Good News

A Champion in the Making: Suruchi Inder Singh's Gold Medal Win in ISSF World Cup!

At just 18, Suruchi Inder Singh has hit the bullseye—not just on the target, but on the world stage. With nerves of steel and unmatched precision, the young sharpshooter brought home gold in the women’s 10m air pistol event at the ISSF World Cup 2025 in Argentina, putting India right at the top of the leaderboard.A National Champion's Rise to FameSuruchi, a national champion across all three individual pistol categories, has been making waves in the shooting world with her exceptional talent and dedication. Hailing from Haryana, Suruchi has been training in shooting since a young age and has consistently demonstrated her prowess in the sport. Her impressive performance at the national level has earned her recognition and accolades, and her recent victory at the ISSF World Cup has put her on the global radar.The ISSF World Cup Rifle/Pistol/Shotgun 2025 in Argentina provided Suruchi with the perfect platform to showcase her skills on the world stage. In the women's 10m air pistol event, Suruchi faced stiff competition from some of the best shooters in the world, including Paris Olympics mixed team champion Zorana Arunovic (Serbia), reigning 25m world champion Doreen Vennekamp (Germany), and Olympic medalist Veronika Major (Hungary). However, Suruchi remained focused and composed, delivering a stunning performance that earned her the top spot on the podium.A Comeback VictoryIn the final round, Suruchi faced a tough challenge from China's Qian Wei, who had set the tone early with a perfect 10.9. Suruchi began with a 10.1 but briefly slipped out of podium contention after her tenth shot. However, she made a remarkable comeback, firing back-to-back scores of 10.7 and 10.8 during the elimination stage. This impressive display of skill and composure earned her the lead after the 13th shot, and she maintained her dominance to claim the gold medal.A New Star is BornSuruchi's victory at the ISSF World Cup marks a significant milestone in her career, establishing her as a force to be reckoned with in the world of shooting. Her impressive performance has earned her recognition and accolades, and she is poised to become a leading figure in Indian shooting. With her sights set on the Paris Olympics, Suruchi is determined to make her mark on the global stage and bring glory to her country.With her eyes on the target and her heart set on excellence, Suruchi Inder Singh is not just winning medals—she’s rewriting the narrative of Indian shooting. Her golden triumph in Argentina is a spark of motivation for countless young athletes across the nation. As she continues to aim higher, Suruchi is shaping a legacy that promises to echo through India’s sporting future. The spotlight is on her now—and it’s only getting brighter. 

10 Apr 2025
Good News

Indian Team Shines at IBO 2024 with Gold and Three Silvers

The Indian contingent at the 35th International Biology Olympiad (IBO) 2024 has made headlines with their outstanding performance, showcasing the nation's prowess in biological sciences on a global stage. Held in Astana, Kazakhstan, from July 7 to July 13, 2024, the event drew participation from 305 students representing 80 countries. Leaders and Observers The team was led by distinguished mentors: Prof. Sasikumar Menon from TDM Lab, Mumbai, and Dr. Mayuri Rege from Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE), TIFR. Supporting them were Scientific Observers Dr. Rajesh Patkar from IIT Bombay and Dr. Devesh Suthar from M. S. University, Baroda. IBO 2024 featured rigorous assessments including four 1.5-hour experimental examinations and two 3.25-hour theory examinations. The practical tests covered a spectrum of topics such as Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, and Bioinformatics. Noteworthy challenges included sheep eyeball dissections, plasmid purification, and protein quantitation. Training and Preparation Acknowledgement goes to the dedicated teachers and mentors across India who diligently trained the team during orientation and pre-departure camps at HBCSE. These efforts were crucial in preparing the students for the intellectually demanding tests based on cutting-edge research in fields like plant biology, cell biology, ethology, and biosystematics. India's robust support system for Olympiad training, led by the National Steering Committee and various teacher organizations, deserves special mention. The Government of India's funding agencies have consistently backed the Olympiad program, with HBCSE serving as the national nodal center for nurturing scientific talent through initiatives that bridge local and international scientific communities. Celebrating Excellence: Medal Winners The highlight of India's success at IBO 2024 was the stellar performance of its participants: - Vedant Sakre from Mumbai, Maharashtra, clinched the prestigious GOLD medal. - Ishan Pednekar from Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, secured a SILVER medal. - Shrijith Sivakumar from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, also earned a SILVER medal. - Yashashwi Kumar from Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, rounded up the achievements with another SILVER medal. Fostering Scientific Excellence The Indian Olympiad program, which spans disciplines from Astronomy to Physics, aims to cultivate excellence in science and mathematics among pre-university students. Its multi-stage selection process ensures that only the best represent India at international forums like the IBO, where they compete with peers from around the world. The triumph of India's team at IBO 2024 reflects a promising future for biological sciences education in the country, inspiring generations of aspiring scientists to aim for the stars. International Biology Olympiad, IBO 2024, GOLD medal, SILVER medals, Indian team, Astana Kazakhstan, biology excellence

18 Jul 2024
Good News

Sreeja Akula Makes History: First Indian to Win WTT Contender Singles Title

Sreeja Akula has etched her name in Indian sports history by becoming the first Indian paddler to win a WTT Contender Singles title. Akula's remarkable performance culminated in a 4-1 victory over China's rising star Ding Yijie in the final. Ranked 38th in the world, Akula faced a challenging start, losing the first game to Ding with a tight scoreline of 10-12. However, she showcased her resilience and skill by sweeping the next four games with scores of 11-9, 11-6, 11-8, and 11-6, securing a historic win. Not only did Akula achieve this unprecedented singles title, but she also made history by being the first Indian paddler to reach the finals of a WTT Contender tournament. This milestone was achieved following a closely contested semi-final against fellow Indian paddler Sutirtha Mukherjee, which Akula won 3-2. Adding to her impressive achievements, Akula, alongside Archana Kamath, clinched the women’s doubles title. The duo dominated their compatriots Diya Chitale and Yashaswini Ghorpade with a 3-0 victory (11-9, 11-6, 12-10) earlier on Sunday. Diya and Yashaswini had previously defeated China’s Sun Sinan and Ding 3-1 (14-12, 6-11, 11-6, 11-7) in their semi-final match, while Akula and Kamath overcame another Indian pair, Ayhika Mukherjee and Sutirtha Mukherjee, to reach the final. The tournament was a significant event for Indian table tennis, as it also saw Harmeet Desai and Manav Thakkar become the first Indian male duo to win a WTT Contender doubles title. They secured their victory with a 3-0 win (11-8, 11-9, 11-8) against local favorites Azeez Solanke and Olajide Omotayo in the men’s doubles final. This series of victories marks a momentous occasion for Indian table tennis, highlighting the growing prowess and competitive spirit of Indian paddlers on the global stage. Sreeja Akula’s triumph in the singles category, coupled with the success in doubles by Akula, Kamath, Desai, and Thakkar, signals a promising future for the sport in India.

24 Jun 2024
Good News

Star Citizens

The Heart of a Soldier: Sakti Paul’s Mission to Feed the Forgotten

Many people might think feeding hundreds every day is impossible, yet for Rifleman Sakti Paul, it has become a way of life. A soldier by profession and a humanitarian by heart, Sakti has dedicated himself to running a community kitchen that feeds over 600 people daily in Kolkata and North Bengal. His story is one of resilience, empathy, and unwavering commitment to humanity.From Hunger to Heart: The Roots of CompassionSakti Paul’s journey began with his own experience of hunger. Raised in a poor family, he knew the pain of skipping meals, of going to bed without food, and of the gnawing uncertainty that comes with poverty. Those early struggles shaped his understanding of need and instilled in him a desire to help others. Five years ago, while returning from duty in the Indian Army, Sakti encountered an elderly man lying on the street, starving and thirsty. The sight transported him back to his own childhood and reminded him of the days when he had no meals to eat. That moment was transformative. He realized that he could not stand by and watch others suffer when he had the ability to act.The Birth of Re 1 Janta KitchenMotivated by compassion, Sakti started the Re 1 Janta Kitchen, offering meals to those in need for just one rupee. The nominal charge was symbolic; it preserved the dignity of those receiving the food while ensuring accessibility. From humble beginnings cooking biryani in his own kitchen, Sakti expanded to prepare dal, rice, vegetables, and other meals, serving hundreds of people every day. Operating outside three hospitals in Kolkata and North Bengal, the kitchen has become a lifeline for patients, families, and daily wage workers who cannot always afford a proper meal. Even the pandemic could not halt Sakti’s mission; he continued serving hot meals when the need was greatest.Growing Support and Expanding ImpactSakti’s mission has inspired those around him. Community members, recognizing his selfless work, have contributed support through donations and volunteering. His workplace now grants him Fridays off, allowing him to teach children at the school he established in Siliguri. Beyond meals, Sakti has started a clothes bank to provide clothing for the underprivileged and runs a school where over 70 children now receive an education. These initiatives demonstrate his holistic approach to community welfare—not just feeding the body, but nurturing minds and spirits.Challenges on the Path of ServiceDespite his dedication, Sakti’s journey has not been easy. Early on, he faced opposition at home. His wife, Gitika, initially struggled to understand why he spent his salary feeding others while their own family struggled to make ends meet. Basic necessities like milk and nutrition for their 18-month-old baby were often scarce. Yet, Sakti’s unwavering faith in his purpose and belief that his actions were guided by God kept him moving forward. Today, Gitika has become an active partner in his mission, cooking, preparing meals, and helping distribute food alongside him. Their teamwork exemplifies the human connection at the heart of Sakti’s work: love, trust, and shared commitment to serving others.A Legacy of ServiceSakti Paul’s journey is more than a story of feeding the hungry; it is a testament to the power of empathy, resilience, and human connection. Through the Re 1 Janta Kitchen and the Unique Foundation, Sakti continues to turn his childhood struggle with hunger into a life-saving force for others. In a world often defined by challenges and hardship, he reminds us that the simplest acts of kindness—a warm meal, a helping hand, or an open heart—can change lives forever.

6 Nov 2025
Star Citizens

Sharpening Dreams: How Two Women Are Bringing Indian Fencing Into Focus

In the stillness of a rooftop in Jammu and Kashmir during the Covid-19 lockdown, Rishika Khajuria fenced against shadows. Without a coach, proper piste, or advanced gear, she honed her footwork between boundary walls, her sabre slicing arcs through the air as the world stood still. Hundreds of kilometres away in Rohru, Himachal Pradesh, Jyotika Dutta was already a seasoned name on the national circuit. Introduced to fencing at 13—late by international standards but early compared to Rishika’s start at 19—Jyotika had battled her way to over 20 national medals, an Asian Games quarter-final berth, and a coveted spot at the National Institute of Sports, Patiala. They stand at different ends of the piste in experience but share a common bond: the relentless fight to bring Indian fencing into the limelight.Late Starts, Early ObstaclesRishika’s fascination with fencing began when she observed a neighbor practicing the sport. Starting at the age of 19, she faced the immediate challenge of mastering essential basics such as footwork, which most fencers develop from a much younger age. Her decision to pursue fencing was met with widespread skepticism, with many dismissing it as a waste of time. Instead of stepping back, she channeled the criticism into motivation, training harder and pushing herself to prove that she could succeed. Her early victories, once labelled as luck, became undeniable proof of her dedication and skill. Jyotika’s journey was equally shaped by resilience. Having once reached the top national ranking, she encountered career-threatening injuries that tested her resolve. Despite these setbacks, she worked her way back into top form, demonstrating the same persistence that had defined her rise in the sport. In July 2025, the US sportswear giant signed Jyotika and Rishika, a rare milestone for Indian fencing, which is still fighting for mainstream attention. For both athletes, it was validation that their grit had global appeal.The Bhavani Devi EffectIndian fencing has existed since the 1970s, but modern momentum owes much to C.A. Bhavani Devi, the first Indian fencer to qualify for the Olympics in 2021. Her journey—from competing at the Tokyo Olympics to winning medals at the Commonwealth Games and Asian Championships—has inspired a wave of participation. Since 2021, participation at nationals has jumped by over 50%. At the 2023 Nationals, fencers from 29 states competed—a huge leap from the sport’s earlier concentration in a handful of regions. The Sports Authority of India (SAI) now operates fencing centers in Patiala, Kerala, and Assam, among others, with improved facilities and better equipment. Small clubs have sprung up in more cities, but accessibility remains a challenge. Jyotika believes expansion is key.The Art and Science of FencingFor the uninitiated, fencing is more than swordplay. It’s a precise Olympic sport with three disciplines:Épée (Jyotika’s event): Target is the entire body. Points are scored with the blade’s tip.Sabre (Rishika’s event): Target is the upper body, arms, head, and back. Points can be scored with the edge as well as the tip.Foil: Target is the torso, shoulders to waist, front and back. Points are scored with the tip only.Today’s fencing is fully electronic. Athletes wear wired jackets, masks, and body cords linked to a scoring machine. When a legal touch is made, a green or red light flashes on the scoreboard. Speed, timing, and mental sharpness are as crucial as physical agility.Beyond Medals: Inspiring the Next GenerationBoth athletes see themselves not just as competitors but as ambassadors for the sport. In Himachal, Jyotika runs workshops and awareness drives, introducing children to fencing. In Jammu and Kashmir, Rishika uses her social media presence to share training tips, showcase the sport’s beauty, and encourage more girls to take it up. From shadow bouts under a lockdown sky to representing India on the global stage, their journey is marvelous. In their blades lies not just personal ambition, but the hope that Indian fencing will one day stand shoulder to shoulder with the world’s best, no longer a niche pursuit, but a sport where young Indians can dream big and win bigger.

16 Aug 2025
Star Citizens

Golden Girl of Judo : Linthoi Chanambam Becomes First Indian to Win Gold at European Judo Cup

In a story that echoes hope, discipline, and the quiet revolution brewing in India's sporting heartlands, 18-year-old Linthoi Chanambam from Mayang Imphal, Manipur, carved her name into history. With fierce determination and flawless technique, she became the first Indian judoka to win gold at the Berlin Junior European Judo Cup 2025, triumphing in the -63kg category. Her final victory against France’s Jaelynn Chipan was more than just a match; it was a moment of reckoning for Indian judo and for a nation learning to dream bigger in lesser-known sports.From Manipur to Berlin: The Making of a ChampionLinthoi's journey began at the tender age of eight in the culturally rich but often overlooked region of Mayang Imphal in Manipur. By 2017, her raw talent and iron will had caught the attention of scouts from the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS), a cutting-edge training facility that would soon become her second home. Under the mentorship of Georgian coach Mamuka Kizilashvili, Linthoi honed her craft with an unmatched work ethic. Her steady rise from national sub-junior gold in 2018 to senior national gold in 2021, and then double gold at the 2022 Asian Cadet and Junior Championships in Bangkok—speaks volumes of her consistency and resilience. Linthoi’s shift to the -63kg weight class turned out to be a smart move. After winning the 2022 Cadet World Championship in the -57kg category, her success in the new category shows how well she can adapt and how determined she is to succeed at the global level.The Berlin Breakthrough: Redefining India’s Judo Narrative The Berlin Junior European Judo Cup brought together 618 athletes from 37 countries, representing the very best in emerging judo talent. Linthoi stood out not only for her powerful throws and technical clarity but also for her mental composure, a trait rarely seen in athletes so young. In a stunning campaign, she overcame a series of top-seeded European opponents. Her decisive victory resonated not just with her coaches and supporters but with the wider Indian sports community.“This win means everything,” Behind Linthoi’s golden moment lies a story of personal sacrifice, family support, and the transformative power of sport. Raised in a modest household in Manipur—an area often in the headlines for socio-political unrest—Linthoi represents more than just sporting excellence. She symbolizes hope, a new narrative, and the result of persistent effort in the face of adversity.What is Judo?Judo is a modern martial art and Olympic sport that originated in Japan in 1882, founded by Jigoro Kano. The word “judo” means “the gentle way,” and it focuses on using technique, balance, and leverage rather than strength. Unlike martial arts that involve striking, judo emphasizes throws, pins, and submission techniques like joint locks and strangles (for older age groups). The main goal in a judo match is to throw your opponent cleanly onto their back, hold them down for 20 seconds, or make them submit. A perfect throw or a successful hold-down earns an ippon, which ends the match instantly. A waza-ari (half point) is given for a near-perfect move, and two waza-aris equal one ippon. Matches typically last four minutes, and if there's no winner by then, they go into overtime (golden score). Penalties called shido are given for breaking rules, being passive, or avoiding the fight; three shidos mean disqualification. Judo players wear a white or blue judogi (uniform), and the color of their belt shows their skill level. It is a sport of discipline, respect, and mental strength, teaching athletes how to use an opponent’s energy to their advantage.Impact on Indian Judo and Olympic DreamsThe Judo Federation of India and officials at Inspire Institute of Sport have hailed Linthoi’s gold medal as a watershed moment for Indian judo. With international medals traditionally elusive, especially at prestigious European competitions, her performance may trigger increased funding, visibility, and participation in the sport. Her win also positions her as a strong medal prospect for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. With three more years to evolve, she is expected to climb higher in global rankings, bringing with her the aspirations of a nation hungry for success beyond cricket.A Name That Will Resonate for YearsLinthoi Chanambam’s historic win at the Berlin Junior European Cup 2025 will not fade as just another medal. This is just the beginning of a big change—a ray of hope for athletes from lesser-known places and sports. With her eyes on the Olympics and the whole country cheering for her, Linthoi has already made her mark in Indian sports history.

30 Jun 2025
Star Citizens

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