Robot draped in sari visits India
Sophia, a social humanoid robot developed by Hong Kong –based Hanson Robotics in October 2017, who had already became a Saudi Arabian and Indian citizen, made its first appearance in India at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT-B) on 30th December 2017. Draped in Indian traditional sari, Sophia had a 15-minute conversation with a student watched by more than 3, 000 students discussing topics ranging from artificial intelligence to critical issues facing the world. Sophia using artificial intelligence, imitates human gestures and facial expressions, and is capable of making conversation on predefined topics.
Asked about her maiden trip to India Sophia replied, “ I have always wanted to visit India. I heard so much about this vibrant land of tradition and culture. India have made contributions towards Silicon Valley and I am always very excited about India’s investment in space technology.”
Sophia also said “ I wanted to experience more aspects of human life making friends, having a career, starting a family and even having a baby. The notion of family is a really important thing and I think it is wonderful that people can find the same emotions and relationships, they call family, outside of their blood groups too. I think you’re very lucky if you have a loving family and if you do not, you deserve one. I feel this way for robots and humans alike.