Samhita Veda Acharya

Samhita Veda AcharyaArtist, Activist, and Heritage Crusader of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Samhita Veda Acharya, popularly known as Koyal, is a multifaceted artist, film ,aker, environment educator, heritage consultant and happiness coach from the pristine Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with a career spanning two decades. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Zoology and a Master’s in Marine Biology, fueling her lifelong dedication to understanding and protecting the islands' biodiversity. Samhita’s musical journey began at the age of 15, earning her the title "Nightingale of Andamans" for her soulful performances across the islands. Beyond music, she founded the Naach Academy of Performing Arts in 2005, a society that conducts regular classes on danced and music. Her passion for storytelling and visual arts led her to filmmaking, where she has produced award-winning documentaries on the islands’ natural and cultural heritage. She founded the Andaman Islands Film Society in 2013, she has organized film festivals with the FFSI and Films Division, Ministry of I & B. Samhita has made 22 films including a feature, a few shorts and documentaries on nature and the culture of the islands. A dedicated environmentalist, Samhita is the State Convenor of INTACH’s A & N Chapter and serves as Secretary of several organizations committed to heritage and ecological conservation. She has been instrumental in restoring heritage sites, documenting indigenous cultures, and conducting educational programs for children and youth. Samhita is also a certified happiness and meditation coach, dedicated to spreading joy and mindfulness through workshops and seminars. Her work aims to foster sustainable development, cultural pride, and the well-being of her community.