TechnoXian 2025 champions: Meet Orchids Thane’s gold-winning sumobot builders Marisetty Sai S and Parth Ankush

Every big invention starts with a spark - a random idea, a bit of curiosity and the courage to give it a shot. This very winning spirit guided 9th grader Marisetty Sai S and 7th grader Parth Ankush, from Orchids The International School’s Thane campus, to clinch two gold medals at the much talked about ‘TechnoXian World Cup 9.0: World’s Biggest Robotics Championship’ held in Noida. For the two young sumobot builders, their passion for robotics not only motivated them to participate in an international-level competition, but also underpin their position among global contenders. As we inch closer to Children’s Day, let’s delve into their success story and the challenges they managed to overcome while chasing their goals in the fascinating world of robotics. Excerpts from Marisetty Sai S and Parth Ankush’s exclusive conversation with The Orchids Blog, along with their mentor Rajani Singh.

Not just fiddling with circuits and sensors 

Sharp and imaginative from a young age, it was more than just tinkering for Sai and Parth when they were preparing for Technoxian 2025. They were up to building something real! And this is how they created their sumobots that not only sat on a workbench but won them gold medals at the robotics event. The two young innovators stood out among hundreds of participants from countries like Russia, Egypt, Azerbaijan, Ghana, Iran and Iraq. Like their peers, they showed up to put their skills and creativity to the test. For them, this wasn’t just another competition. It was the culmination of weeks of experimentation, teamwork and problem-solving ability. Every hiccup along the way taught them something they didn’t know before.

Also read: National STEM Day 2025: Tracing Orchids’ journey of nurturing tomorrow’s innovators

Thane to Noida - a journey fuelled by grit and gears

Their journey to victory wasn’t easy. From a delayed train schedule to the chaos of setting up their equipment in a new environment, the adventure began well before the competition officially kickstarted. “I was running so late that I would’ve missed the train if it wasn’t delayed,” said Sai. After reaching the venue in Noida, they had to keep their bots functional round after round, making sure nothing fell apart when it really mattered.

“We had the same kit as everyone. But honestly, keeping the bot running was the real test,” said Parth, adding, “Even a tiny loose part could throw it off balance or shut it down in the middle of the match.” Their bots were made from plastic, so they needed constant attention. 

However, as fate would have it, a wire slipped out during a crucial round, leaving them feeling jittery as if it was all over for them. But luck and resilience were on their side. “The other team’s bot rolled off the ring, so we made it to the finals after all. That’s when I really understood that staying calm under pressure matters way more than you think,” Sai remarked. 

When teamwork became the key to success!

Adding to their challenges, the ‘Sumo Bots’ and ‘Robo Race’ competitions were taking place simultaneously, leaving Sai and Parth with no choice but to divide their responsibilities. Sai took the driver’s seat in the ‘Sumo Bot’ arena, while Parth focused on the ‘Robo Race’ track. “It was tough managing both, but we trusted each other’s strengths,” said Parth. 

That very trust became their biggest advantage. The duo’s collaboration extended beyond their game plan. They supported each other through the jitters, fixes and nerve-wracking final checks, ensuring that no technical glitch went unnoticed. From aligning sensors to tightening screws, they treated every detail like a lesson in precision engineering.

All you need to know about Orchids’ robotics curriculum

Learning beyond the championship

For Parth and Sai, the biggest takeaway from the championship weren’t just the medals. The real learning was hidden in the fact that robotics can connect to real-world innovation. “The ultrasonic sensors we used are the same ones used in malls to detect movement near the entrances,” explained Sai, adding, “This realisation made me comprehend the relevance of science in daily life - what we build here can have real applications out there.”

Sai’s fascination with machines began early, thanks to his parents, who encouraged him to explore technology through small experiments at home. On the contrary, Parth’s curiosity was piqued by watching a mechanical system jump to life because of some code or a clever design. Both now dream of pursuing careers in technology, with Sai aspiring toward technical aeronautics and Parth wanting to become a robotics engineer.

When asked what advice they’d give younger students, Sai said, “The mantra is to stay calm and focused. Even if something breaks, don’t panic, just fix it.” Adding to that, Parth said, “Understand your bot - every screw and wire that it comprises. That’s how you’ll get better at handling it.” 

They also spoke about the practical safety lessons they learned at the event - such as keeping flammable batteries away from heat and always watching the battery levels so nothing goes wrong in the middle of a match. “Even those little details matter when you’re out there competing,” said Sai.

A teacher’s pride

Their mentor Rajani, who guided them through the event, described the journey as transformative, not just for the students but for herself as an educator. She said, “Getting everyone onboard wasn’t easy. Travelling for a national event already made some students nervous, but Sai and Parth never backed down. They kept pushing, even when things went off track. Staying positive and refusing to give up - that’s what made them winners long before they won gold.” 

Rajani credits Orchids’ central robotics team for continuous support and training. “The guidance and resources we received gave us confidence to face technical hurdles and think beyond classroom learning,” she added. 

Also read: India’s big push to bolster AI-driven education in schools: Are we ready for it?

Looking ahead

With one championship behind them, Sai and Parth already have their eyes set on next year’s Technoxian. “We’re aiming to compete in both the ‘Sumo Bot’ and ‘Robo Race’ categories, and win both,” said Sai. Their story is a reminder that Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) isn’t just about equations and coding. It’s about resilience, innovation and teamwork. At Orchids, that spirit of curiosity is nurtured from the ground up, empowering students to tinker, experiment and turn ideas into impact.