Rohan Manchanda

Rohan Manchanda (16), is from India. A trip to Haridwar changed everything for Rohan. Seeing the dilapidated classrooms and labs at a local school, he asked if there was a music room. The teacher’s answer stayed with him: “We can’t afford to have them distracted.” For Rohan, who had grown up with creativity encouraged and supported, that response revealed a distressing reality many children face.

Determined to change it, Rohan built Lok Gharana, organizing musical performances and pan-Indian cultural events that showcase student talent and give industry musicians a direct platform to scout young performers. Through 30+ events featuring over 400 student performers, 20 students have already been recruited by professional artists to pursue music full-time.

Rohan partnered with organizations like Medhansh to secure funding and resources, and raised INR 80,000 on Milaap to buy instruments for these young musicians, making music a viable career path rather than a distraction.

He’s also working to introduce mandatory music lessons in government schools, creating a mentorship model where renowned classical musicians offer free lessons and guidance to students who never had access before.

Rohan is proving that creativity isn’t a luxury — it’s a right every child deserves.