Mussoorie: Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, one of the world’s leading technology leaders, arrived in Mussoorie with his family on Monday, December 8. His visit was private but created excitement in the hill town, especially at his childhood school, the Convent of Jesus and Mary Waverley.
Nadella received his primary education at Waverley School in 1970-71. Returning after decades, he walked through the quiet campus, old classrooms, and familiar corridors. For nearly half an hour, he wandered the school grounds, sharing childhood memories with his wife Anupam Nadella and daughters Divya and Tara.
Teachers and students posed for photographs with him
The school’s principal, Sister Shayma, and manager, Sister Suzy, welcomed Nadella warmly. Teachers and students posed for photographs with him. According to the school administration, Nadella’s simple and humble personality left a deep impression. “We are proud to see a global leader remain so connected to his roots,” they said.
Ritesh Bhattacharya, the school’s social media in-charge and house master, explained that Nadella’s team had contacted the school in advance to keep the visit confidential. The arrangements ensured that the visit remained private but meaningful.
Nadella’s father served as Director of the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie
Mussoorie also holds memories of Nadella’s father, the late BN Yugandhar, a distinguished IAS officer of the 1962 batch. He served as Director of the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie from 1988 to 1993. Nadella has often spoken about the influence of his father’s values, which continue to inspire him.
Proud moment to welcome back a former student
The visit was not only nostalgic for Nadella but also inspiring for the school community. Teachers said it was a proud moment to welcome back a former student who now heads one of the world’s largest technology companies. Students felt motivated by his journey from Mussoorie to global leadership.
School officials described the visit as emotional and uplifting. “His presence reminded us that no matter how far life takes us, childhood memories and roots remain close to the heart,” they said. The serene valleys of Mussoorie and the Waverley School campus once again became part of Nadella’s life story.