Indians at Princeton University - 10

"Global Mind: The Tarun Khanna Story"

Introduction: In "Global Mind: The Tarun Khanna Story," we embark on a captivating journey through the life of an academic luminary, author, and economic strategist. Tarun Khanna's remarkable story unfolds, from his beginnings in India to his distinguished role as a Harvard Business School professor and a globally recognized expert in emerging markets and entrepreneurship.

Early Years and Academic Ascent: 1968-1993 Born in 1968 in India, Tarun Khanna's early life is marked by a hunger for knowledge. Raised in Bombay and Bangalore, his educational voyage took him to Princeton University, where he graduated with distinction in electrical engineering and computer science in 1988. His academic curiosity led him to Harvard Business School, where he earned a Ph.D. in business economics in 1993.

Harvard and Academic Excellence: 1993-Present Joining Harvard Business School's faculty in 1993, Tarun's career accelerated rapidly. His role evolved from an associate professor to a Novartis fellow and eventually to the esteemed Jorge Paulo Lemann professorship in 2004. His work centers on bridging theory and practice, focusing on multinational and indigenous companies in emerging markets. He becomes a key figure in reshaping the way the world perceives emerging markets, globalization, and entrepreneurship.

A Renaissance Man: 2007-2018 In 2007, Tarun Khanna was recognized as a young global leader by the World Economic Forum, an accolade affirming his influential role in global business. He secured a place as a fellow of the Academy of International Business in 2009, further establishing his expertise. In 2014, he co-founded Axilor Ventures, an initiative that reflects his commitment to nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurial leaders.

Author and Thought Leader: 1990-Present Throughout his career, Tarun Khanna is a prolific writer and author. His scholarly works and articles, spanning economics and management journals, contribute significantly to the academic community. His books, including "Billions of Entrepreneurs" and "Winning in Emerging Markets," emphasize the drivers of entrepreneurship in China and India, as well as strategies for success in emerging markets.

Boards and Honors: 2000s-Present In addition to his academic achievements, Tarun Khanna serves on the boards of AES Corporation, SKS Microfinance, Aragen Life Sciences, and TVS Logistics, showcasing his dedication to corporate and social responsibility. His participation in these organizations underscores his commitment to creating a lasting impact.

Personal Life and Legacy: 2018-Present Beyond his illustrious career, Tarun Khanna's personal life is characterized by his loving family, residing in Newton, Massachusetts. His dedication to his wife, daughter, and son enriches his story, exemplifying the balance between academic success and a fulfilling personal life.

Conclusion: "Global Mind: The Tarun Khanna Story" paints a portrait of a brilliant mind who transcended borders, reshaping the world's perspective on emerging markets, entrepreneurship, and globalization. His biography is a testament to the enduring power of knowledge, tenacity, and the pursuit of a brighter future for all.