Education
Amish Tripathi awarded honorary doctorate by University of York
YORK: Bestselling author and former diplomat Amish Tripathi has added a new title to his name, Doctor of the University.
The University of York in the United Kingdom has conferred on Tripathi an honorary doctorate, honouris causa, recognising his contribution to Indian literature and his role in carrying Indian culture to audiences around the world.
In its citation, the University described Tripathi as the fastest-selling author in Indian publishing history. His 12 books have sold over eight million copies globally, earning him a regular place on Forbes India’s list of influential celebrities.
Beyond the printed page, Tripathi is a familiar voice and face to viewers. A seasoned broadcaster, he has hosted acclaimed documentaries, including the award-winning Legends of the Ramayan. He is also co-founder of Tara Gaming, the studio behind Age of Bhaarat, billed as India’s first AAA video game. Before returning to full-time creative work, he served as minister for Culture and Education at the Indian High Commission in London.
The honorary degree was presented at the University of York’s winter graduation ceremony in the second week of January 2026, in the presence of students, faculty and guests from across the world. In awarding the honour, the University praised Tripathi for deepening global understanding of Indian values, traditions and storytelling.
He was joined in this year’s roll of honour by three other distinguished figures: renowned mathematician professor Simon Donaldson, ecologist professor Sue Hartley OBE, and dame Amanda Blanc DBE, group chief executive officer of Aviva.
The University of York awards its honorary doctorates to individuals whose achievements show exceptional distinction and reflect the institution’s values. For Tripathi, it marks another chapter in a career that continues to blend myth, modernity and meaningful dialogue across cultures.
Education
Internshala launches 6 founder-led internships with stipends up to Rs 50,000
Intern With Icon offers direct access to top founders, mentorship and hands-on roles
MUMBAI: Internshala, an upGrad company, has launched a new initiative titled “Intern With Icon”, offering six students a chance to work directly with some of India’s most recognisable founders and faces from Shark Tank India.
The programme brings together a high-profile line-up including Vineeta Singh, Varun Alagh, Peyush Bansal, Namita Thapar, Kunal Bahl and Aman Gupta. One intern will be selected to work with each founder, gaining hands-on exposure across business functions along with direct mentorship.
The internships come with stipends ranging from Rs 30,000 to Rs 50,000, along with a one-on-one session with the assigned founder. Applications open on April 27 and close on May 10, with final selections to be announced on May 18. The internship will run from May 27 to July 31, 2026.
Unlike traditional programmes, the initiative is degree-agnostic and focuses on potential rather than pedigree. Candidates are expected to demonstrate curiosity, adaptability and problem-solving skills, with basic familiarity in tools like Excel, PowerPoint and Canva seen as an added advantage.
Internshala founder and CEO Sarvesh Agrawal said, “Intern With Icon is designed to bridge aspiration with access. Young talent often admires iconic founders from afar. This programme gives them a chance to learn directly and understand how businesses are built.”
The initiative reflects a broader shift in early-career learning, moving from classroom-style exposure to real-world, founder-led experience. By placing students in the thick of decision-making and execution, Internshala is aiming to make internships less about observation and more about participation.
As competition for meaningful work experience grows, programmes like this could well set the tone for how India’s next generation of professionals gets its first real taste of the business world.
