At just 17 years old, Shubhanshi Chakraborty has emerged as one of the youngest and most compelling voices in environmental awareness. Her pioneering book, Past is Forward, was officially launched at the IIC Auditorium, New Delhi, by Shri Harivansh, Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, in the presence of distinguished personalities.
Commending Shubhanshi’s remarkable work, Shri Harivansh stated, “No amount of praise would suffice for Shubhanshi. Her exceptional writing at such a young age is truly inspiring and will serve as a beacon to confront the challenges facing our planet. This book delves into India’s traditional systems that offer solutions to modern environmental crises. It bridges the past with the present and the present with the future. It is also a matter of great pride that Shubhanshi hails from Rajrappa, Jharkhand.”
The event was graced by prominent figures including Major General G.D. Bakshi, Bhaskar Chatterjee, Anshu Gupta (Founder of Goonj and Magsaysay Awardee), and Leeladhar Mandloi (Former DG, All India Radio & Doordarshan).
A Fresh Perspective on Sustainability
With Past is Forward, Shubhanshi Chakraborty establishes herself as one of the youngest authors to deeply examine sustainability from both a philosophical and practical lens. The book highlights the relevance of ancient wisdom in tackling today’s environmental challenges, substantiating its arguments with compelling examples and facts.
Blending personal insights with perspectives from ancient texts and field experiences, Past is Forward offers a profound exploration of sustainability. It traces the evolution of sustainable practices from antiquity to the present, reinforcing the collective responsibility to safeguard the planet for future generations.
Bridging Ancient Wisdom with Modern Challenges
A core theme of the book revolves around the age-old doctrine: “Once you act, you must be prepared to deal with the consequences. That is the Law of Karma.” This guiding principle urges readers to reflect on their actions, linking them to today’s sustainability movement.
Through her insightful writing, Shubhanshi demystifies spiritual principles and their relevance in contemporary life, offering actionable steps to break free from unsustainable cycles and create an ecologically responsible future.
A Young Filmmaker with a Purpose
Beyond her literary achievements, Shubhanshi Chakraborty is a visionary storyteller and environmental advocate, deeply inspired by her family’s commitment to social responsibility. Growing up among tribal communities, she developed a deep appreciation for their cultural traditions and resilience. She harnessed the power of cinema to amplify their voices, directing Natok—an evocative film on the struggles and artistry of Chhau dancers.
Natok has earned nine prestigious awards and has been selected at 18 national and international film festivals. At just 15, Shubhanshi was recognized as one of the most promising young filmmakers, with her work featured in The Telegraph and The Times of India.
Currently pursuing a degree in Environmental Science and Sustainability, Shubhanshi remains dedicated to integrating ancient knowledge with modern solutions to forge a more sustainable future.
Acclaimed by Thought Leaders
Renowned figures have praised Past is Forward for its depth and vision:
- Padma Vibhushan Dr. L. Subramaniam and singer Kavita Krishnamurti: “A soulful journey that connects past, present, and future—inviting us all to rediscover our sacred bond with the Earth.”
- Prof. G.N. Devy, Padma Shri (2014), Lingua Pax Prize (2011), Senior Professor of Eminence, Somaiya School for Civilisation Studies: “Shubhanshi Chakraborty’s text is a young and earnest call for re-visioning who we are and how we can draw the élan vital so necessary for the future from our cultural resources. Somewhat reminiscent of Greta Thunberg’s challenging question, ‘How dare you vandalize our future?’, Shubhanshi seems to say, ‘How dare you forget the deep reflections by great minds in the past?’ For such a young writer, handling this theme so confidently is truly remarkable.”
A Call to Action for a Sustainable Future
With Past is Forward, Shubhanshi Chakraborty is not just launching a book—she is igniting a movement, a reawakening, and a call to action. By merging traditional wisdom with modern solutions, she inspires readers to rethink their relationship with the environment and embrace sustainability as a way of life.
At a time when sustainability is a global priority, Past is Forward stands as a timely reminder that the answers to today’s challenges may lie in the wisdom of the past. Through her work, Shubhanshi Chakraborty redefines sustainability, cementing her place as a pioneering young voice for environmental change.