Navya Naveli Nanda, the 26-year-old granddaughter of Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan, has recently made headlines after being admitted to the prestigious Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad's Blended Post Graduate Programme (BPGP) for an MBA.
Navya, already well-known for her entrepreneurial ventures and social initiatives, shared the news of her admission on Instagram, describing it as a "dream come true."
India Today reports that despite her excitement, the announcement was met with mixed reactions online. While many congratulated her on the achievement, others raised questions about the program's legitimacy and speculated about her admission process. Critics took to social media, questioning whether her celebrity lineage played a role in securing her place in the highly competitive program.
In response to the controversy, IIM Ahmedabad's Associate Professor Promila Agarwal addressed the situation, clarifying the admissions process. Professor Agarwal confirmed that Navya was admitted based solely on her merit. She emphasised that Navya met all the criteria, including clearing the rigorous cut-offs and interviews required for the program, just like any other candidate.
Navya's admission to IIM Ahmedabad marks another significant milestone in her journey as she continues carving out her identity beyond her famous family background. Known for her active involvement in various social causes, including her co-founded organisation Aara Health, which focuses on women's health and empowerment, Navya has consistently demonstrated a commitment to making a positive impact.
As the debate around her admission continues, Professor Agarwal's statement serves as a reminder of the importance of merit-based admissions and the rigorous process that all candidates, regardless of their background, must undergo to secure a place at one of India's top business schools.