One is a writer and the other, a kart racing driver. With numerous awards to their credit, they’re just into their early teens. Meet 13-year-old Yash Aradhya and 14-year-old Yamini Prashant, who were recently recognised by the Rotary Club of Madras East with the Young Achiever Award.
Citations were read, trophies were given and cameras flashed as Yash and Yamini posed in front of the audience — the evening was all about celebrating the two who are doing what they love. “He didn’t eat anything at the high tea,” whispered a guest. Yash, who was seated next to his mentor Akbar Ebrahim, a motorsport legend, cannot afford to indulge. He’s on a strict diet and follows a fitness regimen — for the teenager, the life that he chose expects discipline and control.
“These kids drive at speeds of 90km/hr,” said Ebrahim. Speaking at the event, he mentioned how those involved in motorsports risk injuries at such a young age to make it big in the field. “Until a few days ago, I didn’t know 14-year-olds could drive, let alone race,” exclaimed Yamini, during her acceptance speech. She is known for her novella Mishti , written when she was just 11. But Yamini is best known for her TEDx talk at Ecole Mondiale World School in Mumbai last year — she’s among the youngest TEDx speakers in India.
And the winner is...
Yash entered the racing circuit when he was nine. He is the National Karting Champion — India 2014, Best Karter of The Year — India 2014, and recorded the maximum number of wins in a championship in India in 2014.
Yamini has two books, namely, Mishti and Best of Granny’s Stories to her credit. Her next book, Uma — Not so Perfect is to be released soon.
