Desi Roots & Routes

Desi Roots & Routes

Discover the journeys of trailblazing Indian Americans who have shaped industries, broken barriers, and built thriving communities across the United States. Each episode offers firsthand insights into how these leaders navigate identity, culture, and success, from roots in India to routes they've travelled--giving you inspiration and valuable lessons for your own path. Hosted by Director Sital Kalantry, this season takes you to Seattle, where you’ll hear from luminaries like Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, filmmaker Rita Meher, entrepreneur Gurpreet (Sunny) Singh, musician Krishna Thiagarajan, global health strategist Ankur Vora, and legal powerhouse Pallavi Mehta Wahi. Whether you’re seeking motivation, cultural connection, or stories of perseverance, this podcast delivers. Available on all major platforms.

Episodes

What does it take to create a space where the arts can transcend barriers and bring people together?

Krishna Thiagarajan, CEO of the Seattle Symphony, shares his incredible journey from performer to leader in one of the most prestigious arts organizations in the United States. Born to an Indian father and German-American mother, Krishna’s multicultural upbringing shaped his passion for music and his vision for the arts. His career h...

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How does a commitment to social good inspire a global leader to dedicate their life to solving complex public health challenges?

Ankur Vora is a distinguished leader in global health, guiding impactful initiatives as Chief Strategy Officer at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. From his early days at BITS in India to working with global nonprofits, Ankur’s path reflects a commitment to applying his talents toward improving publ...

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What unique perspectives do immigrant leaders bring to building a more inclusive political landscape?

Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal is a trailblazing leader in American politics, known for her dedication to immigrant rights and progressive change. From her beginnings in India to her impactful role in Congress, Pramila’s journey is one of resilience, purpose, and a deep commitment to justice. This episode explores her pathway from co...

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What does it take for an immigrant woman to become a powerful voice for authenticity and mentorship in the U.S. legal system?

Pallavi Mehta Wahi is the Managing Partner at K&L Gates’ Seattle Office, representing one of the largest law firms in the United States. Her journey from India to becoming a leader in the legal field is marked by a deep commitment to mentoring, fostering inclusivity, and building authentic communities. Pa...

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How does a hate incident spark a storyteller’s successful film career and inspire a lifelong commitment to confronting difficult experiences and shining a light on them?

Rita Meher is a filmmaker, activist, and co-founder of Tasveer, the world’s only Oscar-qualifying South Asian film festival. Her path from a small village in India to becoming a leader in the arts community of Seattle is one of resilience and purpose. Inspired by th...

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What motivates a successful tech entrepreneur to shift focus towards giving back and creating lasting change in global health and education? 

Sunny Singh is a tech entrepreneur, philanthropist, wellbeing seeker and founder of the Roundglass Foundation. His journey to success in America is one of integrity and perseverance, guided by the lessons instilled from his parents back in India and touched by the recognition that we must...

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Join us as we explore the determination, brilliance, and luck that have shaped the journeys of Indian-American leaders who have achieved remarkable success. Desi Roots & Routes brings you the inspiring stories of people with roots in India whose paths have led them to break barriers and create lasting legacies in America. Hosted by Sital Kalantry, this podcast offers a window into their world—where cultures intersect, and new o...

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