Bengaluru, 23 September 2026: Six-time Grand Slam tennis champion, two-time Olympic silver medalist, and former world No. 1 in men’s doubles Rajeev Ram visited Christel House India’s Bengaluru campus today, where he conducted a hands-on tennis workshop for Grade 11 and 12 students.
Ram, who serves as Global Ambassador for Christel House International, led a clinic focused on tennis fundamentals, technique, and the mindset required to compete at the highest level. The session gave students an opportunity to learn directly from one of the world’s most accomplished doubles players while encouraging broader interest in a sport that can otherwise be difficult for young people from underserved communities to access.
The visit comes shortly after Ram concluded an extraordinary professional tennis career. He made a record 26 consecutive appearances in the U.S. Open men’s doubles competition – the most in history – with his final appearance culminating in a run to the semifinals. Over his career, he won six Grand Slam doubles titles and two Olympic silver medals.
Reflecting on his visit to Christel House India, Ram said, “You don’t really understand the magic of what happens at Christel House unless you come and visit. It’s inspirational for me. These kids that have come from difficult circumstances are going to become successful professionals. I don’t think it gets much better than that. It’s an honor for me to be here.”
Ram has a deep personal connection to Bengaluru. His late father, Raghav Ram, lived much of his life in the city before immigrating to the United States, and much of Ram’s extended family continues to live there. His connection to the city, combined with his commitment to Christel House, makes his engagement with students particularly meaningful.
For Christel House India students, the workshop was about more than tennis. It provided an opportunity to meet an accomplished professional, learn from his experience, and see firsthand what discipline, perseverance, and opportunity can make possible.
Christel House India provides free, holistic education and long-term support to children from underserved communities. Its model combines academics and character development with nutrition, healthcare, social services and college and career preparation, helping students build the skills and confidence to pursue their goals and achieve upward economic mobility.
Christel House India currently operates four campuses across Bengaluru, Atal Nagar in Raipur, Pune, and Thane, serving more than 2800 students.
About Christel House India:
Founded in 2001 and this year celebrating 25 Years of Transforming Lives, Christel House India is part of the global Christel House network, which prepares students from underserved communities to achieve upward economic mobility, become responsible citizens, and realize their goals, dreams, and full potential.
The Christel House model is holistic and integrated, built around four pillars: academics, character development, health and social services, and college and careers. The model also includes intentional programming to engage and support students’ parents and caregivers, recognizing the important role families play in students’ development and success.
Students begin their Christel House journey as early as kindergarten and continue through Grade 12. After graduation, alumni receive support through the College & Careers programme for up to five additional years as they pursue higher education and prepare for the workforce. This support includes scholarships for college fees, academic support, counselling, career guidance, and job placement assistance.
