Shashi Tharoor's educational journey: University topper who turned down IIM

Early academic brilliance

Shashi Tharoor's academic journey is often cited as one of the most impressive among Indian politicians. Born in London and raised in Mumbai and Kolkata, Tharoor completed his schooling at the Campion School in Mumbai and later at St. Xavier's Collegiate School in Kolkata.

He then moved to Delhi to study at St. Stephen's College, where he earned a BA in History. Tharoor topped the university in his final year, a feat that earned him widespread recognition.

The IIM decision

After his undergraduate degree, Tharoor was offered a seat at the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM-A). But he turned it down. Instead, he chose to pursue higher education abroad.

Tharoor went to the United States for a Master's degree at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. He completed his MA in 1976 and went on to earn a PhD in International Relations from the same institution in 1978 — at just 22 years old.

A career shaped by learning

His academic discipline translated into a distinguished global career. Tharoor joined the United Nations in 1978 and served as Under-Secretary-General for Communications and Public Information. He later entered Indian politics, becoming a Lok Sabha MP and a Union Minister of State for External Affairs.

Tharoor is also a prolific author, with works covering Indian history, politics, and literature. His education and intellectual depth have often been a talking point in his public life.

Tharoor's journey remains a testament to the value of choosing passion over convention. While many would have taken the IIM route, his decision to follow his academic interests shaped a unique trajectory.

What to watch: Tharoor continues to be an active voice in Parliament and on social media, often drawing on his academic background to comment on national and global issues.