Manipal University has been a nurturing ground for exceptional talent, producing leaders who have made a significant impact across diverse fields such as technology, entertainment, business, and public service. Its alumni have achieved global recognition, bringing pride to the institution and inspiring future generations with their achievements and contributions.
Satya Nadella
| Date of Birth | August 19, 1967 |
| Place of Birth | Hyderabad, Telangana, India |
| Education | – Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering: Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal (1988) – Master’s in Computer Science: University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee (1990) – MBA: University of Chicago Booth School of Business (1997) |
| Known For | – CEO of Microsoft, credited with transforming the company’s culture and driving innovation in cloud computing – Visionary leader in global technology, known for inclusive leadership and digital transformation – Advocate for accessibility, sustainability, and employee empowerment in the tech industry |
| Honours and Awards | – Fortune’s Businessperson of the Year (2018) – TIME 100 Most Influential People (2018, 2024) – Numerous global recognitions for leadership in technology |
Nithya Menen
| Date of Birth | April 8, 1988 |
| Place of Birth | Bangalore, Karnataka, India |
| Education | – Journalism: Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal – Film and Television Institute of India, Pune (cinematography course) |
| Known For | – Versatile Indian film actress, acclaimed for performances in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi cinema – Advocate for women’s empowerment and social causes in the film industry – Recognized for her work in pan-Indian cinema and advocacy for diversity |
| Honours and Awards | – 4 Filmfare Awards Gunde Jaari Gallanthayyinde, Malli Malli Idi Rani Roju, Mersal, and Thiruchitrambalam, including Best Actress (Telugu), Best Supporting Actress (Tamil), and Critics’ Awards. – Recognized as one of the most talented actresses in Indian cinema |
Rajeev Chandrasekhar
Rajeev Suri
| Date of Birth | October 10, 1967 |
| Place of Birth | New Delhi, India |
| Education | – B.E. in Electronics and Communications Engineering: Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal |
| Known For | – Former CEO of Nokia, leading the company’s transformation in mobile networks and digital services – Recognized for expertise in mobile technology, big data analytics, and cloud computing – Advocate for innovation and digital transformation in the telecom sector |
| Honours and Awards | – Recognized as a leading figure in global technology – Distinguished Alumni Award, Manipal Institute of Technology (2013) |
Nag Ashwin
| Date of Birth | 23 April 1986 |
| Place of Birth | Hyderabad, Telangana, India |
| Education | – Bachelor’s in Mass Communication: Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal – Film Direction Course: New York Film Academy, USA |
| Known For | – Acclaimed Indian film director and screenwriter, known for Mahanati (2018), Kalki 2898 AD (2024), Yevade Subramanyam (2015) and the anthology series Pitta Kathalu (2021) – Directed major films and recognized for storytelling and visual style – Advocate for innovative cinema and youth-centric themes |
| Honours and Awards | – National Film Award for Best Feature Film – Telugu (Mahanati, 2018) – Nandi Award for Best Debut Director (Yevade Subramanyam, 2015) – Filmfare Award for Best Director – Telugu (Mahanati, 2018) – Zee Cine Award for Best Director – Telugu (Mahanati, 2018) – Ramineni Foundation Award for Best Director (Mahanati, 2018) – Gaddar Award for Best Director and Best Feature Film (Gold) (Kalki 2898 AD, 2024) – Multiple nominations at SIIMA and other major awards |
Vikas Khanna
| Date of Birth | November 14, 1971 |
| Place of Birth | Amritsar, Punjab, India |
| Education | – Hotel Management: Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal (completed 1991) – Culinary Institute of America, New York – New York University, USA – Honorary Doctorate: GD Goenka University |
| Known For | – Michelin-starred chef, restaurateur, cookbook writer, and judge on MasterChef India – Advocate for culinary arts, humanitarianism, and philanthropy – Recognized for global influence in food and culture – Author of over 40 cookbooks, including the world’s most expensive cookbook, “Utsav” – Filmmaker and director of the documentary “Kitchens of Gratitude” and feature film “The Last Color” |
| Honours and Awards | – Top 10 Chefs in the world by Deutsche Welle News and Gazette Review – Doctor of Philosophy (Honoris causa) Degree by GD Goenka University – Doctorate in literature (Honoris causa) by D Y Patil University – James Beard Foundation Award nomination (2014) – “Rising Star” Chef Award by Star Chefs (2011) – GQ India Man of the Year (2012) – The Shining Star Award from “Just One Break, Inc.” – Featured on the cover of Men’s Health India Magazine (2012) – “New York’s Hottest Chef” by New York Eater blog – Michelin 2024 Bib Gourmand award for his restaurant Bungalow – Paul Harris Fellow, Rotary International – Asia Game Changer Award winner – Inducted as an honorary member of the Rotary Club – Honored for literacy initiatives and global service |
Over the years, the legacy of Manipal University has been shaped by visionaries whose journeys reflect the institution’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and leadership. Their accomplishments continue to inspire and reinforce the university’s reputation as a beacon of progress and transformation
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