Mentorship
The Ghost Crew of the Volga‑4: A Deep‑Sea Mystery
Maya Malhotra, a 10th grader from Mahindra International School, Pune, crafts a gripping deep‑sea narrative that blends mystery, science fiction, and emotional depth. Her story follows diver Steig Thorn as he descends into the Litke Trench and encounters the Volga‑4, a submarine that vanished in 1975 yet appears untouched by time. With precise detail and a steady build‑up of tension, Maya creates an eerie, immersive world where the past and present collide in unexpected ways.
Travel
A Week in Almaty: A 10th Grader’s Ski Adventure in Kazakhstan
10th grader Maya Malhotra, from Mahindra International School, Pune, takes readers through a vivid, heartfelt photo essay documenting her week‑long ski trip to Almaty, Kazakhstan. What began as a much‑needed break after exams quickly turned into a journey of discovery, challenge, and quiet confidence. From tense moments at the airport to the thrill of skiing at 3,200 feet, Maya captures every detail with clarity and warmth. Her reflections on wrong skis, powdery snow, sunlit slopes, and the simple joy of getting better each day reveal a young writer who observes deeply and expresses with honesty.
Planet
Why the Moon’s Beginning Inspires Me: A Student’s Reflection on the Giant Impact Hypothesis
8th Grader Advika Karve, studying in JBCN International School, Mumbai, explores the Giant Impact Theory with a sense of wonder and curiosity. What fascinates her most is how something as turbulent as a planetary collision could create the Moon we admire today. In her essay, she reflects on how the theory blends destruction with creation, showing that even catastrophic events can lead to something beautiful and life‑shaping. For Advika, the Moon’s origin story is more than just science; it’s a reminder that new beginnings can rise from chaos, just as our Moon emerged from a dramatic cosmic impact.
People & Culture
The Psychology of Space: Ankush Seth on Designing Homes That Truly Work
10th grader Maya Malhotra from Mahindra International School, Pune interviews interior designer Ankush Seth, founder of Seth & Associates, to uncover what truly lies behind the craft of designing meaningful spaces. Through their conversation, Maya explores how interior design goes far beyond colours and furniture, touching psychology, behaviour, negotiation, and the invisible decisions that shape how people live. Mr. Seth speaks candidly about layouts, client expectations, creative problem‑solving, and the importance of trust in the design process. Maya’s thoughtful questions and reflections reveal a young interviewer who listens deeply and captures the heart of a designer’s philosophy.
