Chetan Bhagat's Academic Journey: A Closer Look at His Time at IIT and IIM

In the world of authors and popular fiction, Chetan Bhagat stands as a name synonymous with young, relatable storytelling. His academic journey, however, is an interesting tale that often gets overshadowed by his success as a writer. This article delves into his time at IIT and IIM, comparing his academic performance and personal life.

Academic Performance at IIT

Chetan Bhagat, a prominent Indian author of young adult fiction, pursued his bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from IIT Delhi. During his early years at IIT, his academic performance was not on par with others. According to Prabuddh Baid, a well-known alumni, Chetan's CGPA of 9.45, while impressive, was infamous among the student community. At that time, a CGPA of 7 or 8 points in an institution like IIT was considered highly commendable. Even with a CGPA of 9.45, Chetan was jokingly referred to as 'Maggu,' a term often used by electrical and electronics students to describe someone who excels in these fields.

Academic Excellence at IIM

While his academic performance was average at IIT, Chetan Bhandari, as he was known earlier, turned the tables around when he pursued his Master's in Management from IIM. As a former IIM student, we can attest that a good quantitative background from IIT significantly improves one's chances of excelling in an MBA program. Chetan's switch to IIM marked a significant improvement in his academic performance. He was a topper in his class, highlighting his capabilities in a more challenging academic environment.

Personal Experience with Chetan Bhagat at IIT Roorkee

During a college festival at IIT Roorkee in October 2007, Chetan Bhagat visited our college. By then, he had authored two books and was working on his third book. When asked about his academic performance, he shared that his initial years saw a CGPA of around 5, but this later improved to 7 in his final year. His improvement was attributed to the projects and lighter courses he took in his final year. It is worth noting that he placed well at IIM, which can be attributed to the fact that engineers with a strong quantitative background are known to perform exceptionally well in MBA programs.

Outside Academia: A Passion for 'Girls on Metal'

Chetan Bhandari, the author, is known for his relatable writing style. However, apart from his writing journey, he had a personal side too. He was often described as an 'awkward guy,' someone who rarely talked to girls. Despite his introvert nature, a peculiar interest in 'girls on metal' was noted. This interest reflects his personality and his unique perspective on life and relationships.

Conclusion

While Chetan Bhagat's success as a writer is undeniable, his academic journey from an average student at IIT to an outstanding one at IIM is equally fascinating. His ability to adapt and excel in different environments illustrates his versatility and determination. Whether it's his love for writing or his personal preferences, Chetan Bhagat's story is one of resilience and inspiration.