Mark Rober’s much-anticipated India visit is more than just a celebrity tour — it’s a revolution in how the next generation of Indian youth see science and innovation. With his contagious energy and hands-on approach to problem-solving, Rober is already inspiring thousands across the country to look at engineering not as a subject, but as a superpower.
The buzz surrounding his launch of the Jugaad Contest 2025 is proof. In just 24 hours, the contest website has seen over 1 million hits, with kids and parents eager to register and participate. The premise is simple: create an innovative solution using household items, post a video, and win ₹5 lakh. But the impact is far-reaching.
“We’ve always had brilliant minds in India, but what Mark is doing is unlocking that brilliance at the grassroots,” said Priya Verma, a STEM educator based in Pune. “He’s making science feel like play.”
Rober’s influence in the online education and maker community is unmatched. With over 68 million YouTube subscribers and a long history of viral experiments and builds — from the world’s largest Nerf gun to squirrel mazes — Rober’s ability to simplify complex engineering principles has won him fans of all ages.
His Indian tour includes visits to schools, makerspaces, and tech hubs. At each stop, Rober emphasizes the importance of failure, iteration, and creativity — core principles of the engineering mindset. “Science isn’t about always getting it right,” Rober explained during his talk at the Waves Summit. “It’s about trying, failing, and learning. That’s where the magic happens.”
One of the more exciting aspects of the tour is Rober’s plan to document several of the best Indian jugaads he comes across during the contest. These will be featured in a special YouTube episode dedicated entirely to Indian innovation — a first for his channel.
“Imagine your invention being seen by millions around the world,” he told a crowd of excited students in Bengaluru. “That’s not just a prize — that’s a launchpad.”
With support from CrunchLabs, Rober’s company that produces STEM-based educational toys, and in partnership with Indian educators and creators, the Jugaad Contest aims to leave a lasting legacy well beyond the final winners.
Parents are equally excited. “We finally have something that motivates our kids to build, not just scroll,” said Ravi Kapoor, a father of two from Ahmedabad. “And the fact that it’s fun and potentially life-changing? Incredible.”
As Rober continues his journey across India, the buzz is only getting louder. Teachers, parents, and young tinkerers alike are coming together to be part of a movement that blends tradition with innovation — the true spirit of jugaad.
