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Namaste,

I am

Gapchoop
Viraj

from Pune, India

Most designers begin with a sketch.

I began with a patent.

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At 12, I built a semi-automatic water pump control system that reduced residential water and electricity waste—earning Indian Patent No. 328496, the INSPIRE Awards National Silver Medal, and recognition in the Limca Book of Records.

That wasn't luck. It was the result of asking a specific question:

Why does this system waste resources it doesn't need to?

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I still ask that kind of question. Just in bigger rooms now.

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Today, I am an Architect and Industrial Designer with an MFA from SCAD, focused on uncovering hidden opportunities through new processes.

From designing future kitchen experiences at Kohler's Global Design Studio to reimagining public sanitation through my thesis, I transform complex challenges into products, systems, and experiences that create measurable impact.

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Combining award-winning skills, real-time on-site problem-solving, and a deep understanding of human behavior, I apply everything I've learned to uncover opportunities, align stakeholders, and ignite teams to reach new heights of design.

13 International Awards | Red Dot 2025 | 3× EPDA 2025 | IDA Gold & Silver
 

Industrial Designer. Systems Thinker. Opportunity Finder.

Achievements in Documentary Filmmaking:

  • "Save Water" (2010):

    • Won a consolation prize in the open category at the State Government Environmental Film Competition.

    • Screened at the Kirloskar Vasundhara International Film Festival in over 27 cities across India.

  • "Wake Up!" (2011):

    • Selected as the inaugural film at the 2011 State Government Environmental Film Festival.

    • Screened nationally at the Kirloskar Vasundhara International Film Festival.

  • "It’s Easy" (2012):

    • Nominated for the Rashtriya Vigyan Chalchitra Mela (RVCM) 2012 in Kolkata, organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DST).

    • Screened at the Kirloskar Vasundhara International Film Festival.

These films have been aired by SAAM TV, Star Maza, and various local TV channels to raise public awareness. Additionally, Zee TV (Education) produced and broadcast a short film highlighting Viraj’s achievements.

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Presentations and Recognitions:

  • National Recognition:

    • Viraj’s work received high praise at YASHADA, Pune, where his presentation was recognized as one of the best at the National Level Conference on "Harvest Rain Water and Recycle Water for the Future."

    • Conducted a session on "Easy Filmmaking" at the National Film Archive of India (NFAI), Pune.

    • Delivered over 70+ presentations on environmental issues to various organizations, NGOs, schools, and industries.

  • Environmental Advocacy:

    • His films are showcased on "Jagriti," a mobile exhibition bus by the Center for Environment Education (CEE).

    • CEE has incorporated ideas from his films into environmental textbooks.

    • Awarded the Green Warrior (2010) and Srushti Mitra Awards (2011-2013) for four consecutive years by CEE.

Inventions and Innovations:

  • Semi-Automatic Water Pump Controller:

    • Won the National Level Silver Medal at INSPIRE-2012.

    • Patent application is in progress.

    • Through film presentations and marketing of this invention, Viraj raised ₹2.0 lakhs in donations for an orphan's school at the age of 12.

    • Recognized by the Limca Book of Records and the India Book of Records for this achievement.

    • Featured in the theme pavilion "Success Stories of Indian Technology" alongside projects from DRDO, NCL, and CW&PRS at the Government Engineering College in Pune.

Photography:

  • Awards:

    • Gold Medal at the State Level Junior Photography Championship, Pune.

    • 2nd Runner-Up in a national photography competition by Max New York Life Insurance.

    • "Photographer of the Year 2010" award in the open category by the International Boulevard of Photographers, USA.

Media Coverage and Public Recognition:

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  • Featured in various news media, magazines, and souvenirs as an inspiration to students across India.

  • Limca Book of Records recognized Viraj for a second time for his eco-friendly Ganesh idol initiative and his efforts in donating stationery and medical supplies to needy students.

Guidance and Support:

  • Received personal guidance and appreciation from Dr. Rajendrasinh Rana, the Waterman of India and Magsaysay Awardee.

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