Racing toward a Beautiful Future

I was deeply intrigued the first time I heard Gurudev Swami Chinmayanandaji’s powerful words: ’Catch them young.’ It stayed with me because it speaks to something I truly believe in—that when values, discipline, and purpose are introduced early in life, they quietly shape who a person becomes. Over the years, I have seen many examples of this, but few stories reflect it as clearly and beautifully as that of Rivaan Dev Preetham.When I first learned about Rivaan’s journey, what struck me was not just his talent, but his clarity. From Chennai, Rivaan discovered his love for karting at a very young age. What began as curiosity soon turned into commitment. While most children are still exploring different interests, Rivaan was already learning what dedication, routine, and perseverance really mean. He didn’t just enjoy racing—he approached it with seriousness, humility, and a constant desire to improve.That mindset has already taken him far. Through consistent effort and quiet determination, Rivaan became a two-time Indian National Karting Champion in the Micro Max category. It is an extraordinary achievement for someone so young, but what impressed me even more was what followed. He stepped onto the international stage, competing in prestigious championships such as the Champions of the Future Academy Programme, racing against some of the best young drivers in the world.One moment that truly stood out was when Rivaan became the only Indian to win a race at the FIA Motorsport Games. It was not just a personal victory for him—it felt like a proud moment for our country. It showed what is possible when talent is nurtured early and guided with the right values. Yet, beyond the titles and podiums, what I admire most about Rivaan is his focus and concentration. Karting is a demanding sport. It allows no distractions. Every lap requires complete presence of mind, quick decisions, and emotional control. Watching Rivaan’s approach—calm, observant, and composed—it is clear that his strength lies not only in speed, but in his ability to stay centred under pressure. He learns from every race, reflects on every mistake, and comes back stronger..What makes his journey even more inspiring is the balance he maintains. Between school, training, travel, and competition, Rivaan continues to stay grounded in his education and personal growth. There are no shortcuts in his life—only early mornings, long practice sessions, and the patience to trust the process. This is what ‘catch them young’ truly means to me: shaping not just skills, but character. Rivaan does not race only for trophies. He races with a dream to reach the highest levels of motorsport. It is a bold dream, but it is carried with humility, discipline, and deep respect for the journey ahead. At such a young age, he already understands something many learn much later—that greatness is not built in a moment, but through consistent effort over time.In Rivaan’s story, Gurudev Swami Chinmayanandaji’s words come alive. When we guide young minds early with values, focus, and purpose, we do not merely create achievers—we nurture individuals of depth and character.Rivaan Dev Preetham is still at the beginning of his journey. But even now, he stands as a powerful reminder of what young minds can achieve when they are ’caught young’ and guided with care. He is not just racing toward finish lines—he is racing toward a future he believes in, one thoughtful lap at a time.

Racing toward a Beautiful Future

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