The Man Behind the Mic : Healing Through Harmony | Akhil Sachdeva | TEDxGGDSDCollege
In his moving TEDx talk, renowned singer and composer Akhil Sachdeva shares the deeply personal journey that shaped his music and identity. He speaks about the challenges he faced, from navigating a tough entry into the music industry to the heartbreaking loss of his mother and sister—an experience that distanced him from music for a time. Akhil opens up about how grief and silence eventually gave way to healing, strength, and soulful expression. His story is not just about becoming a successful artist, but about rediscovering one’s purpose through pain and turning vulnerability into art that connects with millions.
Akhil Sachdeva is a celebrated Indian playback singer, composer, and musician, known for his soulful voice and captivating melodies. Born on November 4, 1990, in New Delhi, India, Akhil’s musical journey began as the lead vocalist of the band Nasha in 2009. He gained widespread recognition with his hit song “Humsafar” from Badrinath Ki Dulhania (2017), which earned him the Zee Cine Award for Best Playback Singer (Male). Blending classical influences with contemporary sounds, Akhil has delivered numerous hits like “Tera Ban Jaunga” from Kabir Singh (2019) and “Channa Ve” from Bhoot – Part One: The Haunted Ship (2020). Known for his versatility and emotional depth in his music, Akhil continues to capture the hearts of fans with his powerful performances. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
More from TED
- 8:10A city of peace without peace | Elisia Wang | TEDxQDHS YouthDoes naming a place after peace invite conflict? Elisia Wang is an enthusiastic and open-minded explorer who maintains a strong curiosity and passion for discovering the world. She has a deep interest in both the sciences, such as chemistry and mathematics, enjoying the precision of logical reasoning and analytical thinking, and the humanities, particularly history and culture, seeking to understand the world from multiple perspectives. This interdisciplinary passion allows her to find a unique balance between rational analysis and humanistic reflection. Beyond the classroom, traveling is an essential part of her exploration. She enjoys observing and reflecting in unfamiliar destinations, embracing the diversity of the world, listening to different stories, and growing through cultural and scenic experiences. She has also been actively involved in TEDx for three consecutive years—working behind the scenes as an organizer in the first two years, and this year, stepping onto the stage as a speaker. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 10:15Student voice | Brittany Johnston | TEDxQDHS YouthStudent voice is more than just speaking up in class; it's about actively engaging with the school community to discover your potential beyond academic strengths. Brittany Johnston is from a small suburban town in Ontario, Canada. She completed a BA in English and Sociology at Queen’s University (in Canada, not Ireland) and has an education degree from the University of Western Ontario. She began her teaching career here in Shanghai, working for two years in Jinshan District and then moving to the city proper where she has lived for the past two years. As an educator, she tries to foster a love of learning by guiding students to apply and extend what they have learned through a variety of activities and projects. Outside of the classroom, you may find her meandering through the streets of Shanghai in search of a good cup of coffee; or exploring the world and China through food at one of the many excellent restaurants in the city. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 8:30Empowering elderly voices | Alex Mao | TEDxQDHS YouthRespect and listen to the ideas of older adults, and appreciate the valuable message they have to share I am Alex, a grade 11 student from Qibao Dwight and an advocate for minority voices. Through the process of exploring different perspectives, I have come to realize the value of underappreciated voices and why they deserve to be heard. For example, the voices of elderly people in our rapidly aging society often remain a taboo subject for many. I hope this speech will encourage people to shift their perspectives, respect and listen to the ideas of older adults, and appreciate the valuable messages they have to share. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 11:57Chasing Bubbles_ The Importance of Curiosity | Nijar Ahmed | TEDxNibras Intl School YouthIn this imaginative and heartfelt TEDxYouth talk, Nijar Ahmed explores the wonder of curiosity and how it shapes who we become. Using the metaphor of "chasing bubbles," Nijar invites us to see life as an endless journey of exploration, where asking questions and seeking new experiences leads to growth, creativity, and deeper meaning. Her talk is a joyful reminder that curiosity isn’t just for children—it’s the spark that keeps us learning, dreaming, and truly living. Nijar Ahmed has always taken her position as a student as something more than just a temporary occupation; it is part of her identity – not just a student of NIS, but a student of life, taking pride in the lessons she learns every day. Her insatiable curiosity and passion for learning has given her a fresh perspective on her life’s purpose: pursuit of knowledge and new experiences. And not just any knowledge, but something that she can share and benefit from, a door to new opportunities. Ever since she was young, she had trouble defining her interests because of how varied they were. From art to food to reading, she had a new hobby every week, but even when she had finished one chapter and started the next, she always carried a new perspective she’d gained along with her to the next adventure. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 8:04What does Community mean to you? | Aileen Qi | TEDxQDHS YouthA community is where mutual support between people flows. I am a community-based storyteller who is not just in documenting facts but in telling stories that bridge perspectives and connect people. We often lose touch with the surrounding communities in a world that thrives on speed and efficiency. My journey has been seeking my "voice" through the camera lens. During this path, I encountered "Buy42," a charitable store that resonated deeply with me. It's altruistic projects, and inclusive spirit stirred something profound within. Through documentary filmmaking, I strive to dismantle stereotypes surrounding the "disabled community," to weave narratives that foster connection and understanding. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 14:22Beyond the Binary | Julia Zheng | TEDxWAIS Hangzhou YouthChallenging gender norms in a changing world 6th Form Student at Wycombe Abbey School Hangzhou This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx