The Sun Within Me

The event ‘The Sun Within Me’ featured a compassionate and moving conversation between Chairperson Priya Gazdar and two distinguished guests: National Award winning Indian actor Rajkummar Rao and visually impaired industrialist Srikanth Bolla. Rajkummar Rao has played the lead role in a recently released biopic on the latter’s life. Through the questions they answered, the audience got a very good overview of the trials and tribulations that each went through to reach where they have reached.

Srikanth Bolla: Triumph over Adversity

Srikanth, a beacon of resilience and innovation, shared his inspiring journey as a visually impaired individual who surmounted numerous challenges to become a trailblazer in the industry. As the first international blind student to receive a full scholarship at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, he has not only excelled academically, but also made significant strides in the business world through Bollant Industries, earning accolades for his work with people with disabilities. His work philosophy underscores his commitment to inclusivity – which calls for creating opportunities rather than exhibiting sympathy for the physically challenged.

Rajkummar Rao: A Journey of Passion and Perseverance

Rajkummar Rao, known for his versatile acting skills and dedication to his craft, discussed his ascent in Bollywood against significant odds. His breakthrough came with the film ‘Shahid,’ which earned him a National Film Award for Best Actor, setting the stage for a flourishing career in the film industry.
Answering Chairperson Priya Gazdar’s question about the factors that shaped his career trajectory, Rao highlighted the importance of sincerity, focus, and dedication, which he learned from his early struggles and experiences. He also touched on the role of empathy and understanding in portraying characters authentically, stating, “Acting can be taught, but it also requires an innate ability to empathize and connect with characters on a deep level.”

The session concluded with standing ovations for both speakers, reflecting the audience’s appreciation for their honesty and inspirational stories.