Bilaspur Athlete Rohan Shah Addresses Oxford Summit

International strength athlete and medalist Rohan Shah, who competes for India and hails from Bilaspur, has become the first person from Chhattisgarh to deliver a talk at the University of Oxford. He delivered the address at the Global Leadership Summit 2025, held at Keble College, University of Oxford in London.

Founded in 1870 and one of Oxford’s largest colleges, Keble College serves as a distinguished academic and conference venue, where major international summits and high-profile figures have convened.

Shah followed in the footsteps of Amartya Sen, Shashi Tharoor, Lord Meghnad Desai, Professor Sunetra Gupta, Dr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia, Nandan Nilekani and Dr. Karan Singh, who have all engaged with Oxford University in various speaking capacities. He delivered his speech at the summit on November 21, 2025, focusing on the essential qualities of contemporary global leadership.

He was invited to share his vision on how leaders must “think globally, act smartly, and inspire across borders.” At the heart of his address was the Indian philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (One Earth, One Family, One Future), advocating for unity, wisdom, and compassionate action as critical components of modern leadership. Shah was the only speaker at the event to be dressed in traditional Indian attire, a choice that drew positive reception from the audience.

Rohan has a successful and decorated career in competitive sports. He is a powerlifter and strength athlete who has consistently represented India in major international championships. His major accomplishments include securing two Gold Medals at the Global Power Alliance Power Lifting EUROASIA Championship in Ukraine in 2020, winning a Gold and Silver Medal at the 12th World Strength Lifting and Incline Bench Press Championship in Thailand in 2025, and clinching a Gold Medal at the International Strength Lifting and Incline Bench Press Championship held in Nepal in 2023.

Following his session, Shah was honoured with a special memento presented by Julian Gluck, a celebrated US Combat Pilot and Cross-Sector Leader.

Born on 3 October 1991 in Bilaspur, he developed his dedication to physical training early, competing at the state level in swimming, water polo, and handball, and representing his school in the CBSE National Level Swimming Championship, forging the self-discipline that later translated into his international success in strength lifting.