Dr. Vikas Divyakirti is a well-known Indian educator and mentor who has played an important role in guiding civil services aspirants, especially those studying in Hindi medium. He is the founder of Drishti IAS, a popular institute for UPSC preparation, which he started with the aim of making quality education accessible and concept-based. An academic by background, he has studied multiple disciplines and holds a doctorate in Hindi literature. Although he cleared the Civil Services Examination and briefly worked in government service, his passion for teaching and learning led him to leave the job and dedicate himself fully to education. Known for his calm teaching style and deep philosophical insights, he often connects current affairs with social, ethical, and human values. Through classroom teaching, books, and digital platforms, Dr. Divyakirti has influenced millions of students by encouraging critical thinking, self-awareness, and disciplined preparation rather than rote learning.
HIS EARLY CAREER
Dr. Vikas Divyakirti’s early career reflects a strong inclination toward academics and public service. After completing his higher education, he began working as a lecturer at the University of Delhi, where he developed a deep interest in teaching and intellectual discussions. During this period, he also prepared for the Civil Services Examination and successfully cleared it in 1996 on his first attempt. He joined the Central Secretariat Service and was posted in the Ministry of Home Affairs. However, despite the prestige and stability of a government job, he soon realized that administrative work did not align with his passion for education and free thinking. This realization led him to resign from government service and return to teaching, a decision that eventually laid the foundation for his journey as an educator and the establishment of Drishti IAS.
EDUCATION
Dr. Vikas Divyakirti has a strong and diverse educational background rooted in the humanities and social sciences. He completed his higher studies at the University of Delhi, where he developed a deep academic interest in subjects that later became central to civil services preparation. He earned a Ph.D. in Hindi Literature, which strengthened his command over language, critical thinking, and analytical writing. Along with Hindi literature, he also studied subjects such as sociology, philosophy, law, and public administration, giving him a multidisciplinary perspective. This broad academic exposure helped him understand social issues, ethics, and governance in depth, and it later became a key strength in his teaching approach. His education not only shaped his intellectual foundation but also influenced his ability to explain complex topics in a simple, relatable, and conceptual manner.
BEST MOTIVATIONAL SESSIONS
Dr. Vikas Divyakirti is widely admired for his motivational sessions, which go beyond exam preparation and focus on mindset, ethics, and self-understanding. Some of his best motivational sessions revolve around topics like handling failure in competitive exams, the illusion of success, self-discipline, and the real purpose of education. His talks often encourage students to accept uncertainty, remain grounded despite pressure, and not tie their self-worth solely to exam results. Sessions such as his discussions on UPSC failure and mental health, the difference between ambition and greed, and how to stay calm in a highly competitive environment have deeply resonated with aspirants across India. What makes his motivation unique is that it is rooted in philosophy and realism rather than emotional hype, helping students think clearly, stay balanced, and build long-term resilience in both personal and professional life.
