Mark Rober has been
outspoken about his admiration for India’s inventive culture. During his
collaborations with Indian YouTubers like Curly
Tales, TechBurner, and CarryMinati, Rober expressed how
impressed he is with the country’s grassroots innovation. He believes Indian
creators have a natural flair for solving complex problems with minimal
resources — exactly what this contest aims to spotlight.
In his special
collaboration with cricketer Hardik
Pandya, Rober explored the idea of “street science,” applauding everyday
Indians for turning mundane materials into meaningful machines. This
appreciation is shaping his approach to judging: it’s not about having the
flashiest tools, but about showcasing depth of thought and problem-solving
spirit.
Rober’s judging panel
will include engineers and makers from the CrunchLabs
team, known for designing wildly creative STEM toys and content. Their goal is
to find entries that reflect the same energy that powers CrunchLabs: curiosity,
fun, and hands-on learning. Whether the contestant is a 10-year-old with a
tape-and-cardboard solution or an adult who’s built a helpful gadget for their
community, each invention will be judged on its own merits.
Finally, Rober’s dream
is that this contest does more than reward clever builds — he hopes it sparks a
movement. A movement where children
see themselves as inventors, where classrooms become makerspaces, and where
science is seen not as a subject, but as a superpower.
As the September 15
deadline approaches, inventors across the country still have time to
participate. The most important thing to remember? You don’t need expensive
materials, a fancy camera, or a formal lab. What Mark Rober is truly looking
for is your passion, creativity, and a
pinch of desi Jugaad.