Dr. Vikas Divyakirti is a renowned educator, former civil servant, author, lecturer, and the founder of Drishti IAS, one of India’s leading UPSC coaching institutes. His inspiring journey from securing Vikas Divyakirti IAS rank of 384 in his first attempt to building an empire that has mentored thousands of civil services aspirants makes him a beacon of motivation. The story of Vikas Divyakirti IAS rank in UPSC, his decision to leave a secure government job, and his dedication to education continue to inspire millions searching for Dr Vikas Divyakirti, Vikas Divyakirti sir, or Dr. Vikas Divyakirti.
Quick Facts Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dr. Vikas Divyakirti |
| Popular As | Vikas Divyakirti Sir, Dr. Vikas Divyakirti |
| Profession | UPSC Coach, Educator, Author, Former Civil Servant |
| UPSC Rank | All India Rank 384 (1996) |
| Service Allocated | Central Secretariat Service (CSS) |
| Educational Qualification | BA (History), MA (Hindi Literature), M.Phil, PhD |
| Current Position | Founder & Director, Drishti IAS |
| Date of Birth | December 26, 1973 |
| Age | 51 years (as of February 2025) |
| Birthplace | Bhiwani, Haryana, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Religion | Agnostic (raised in Arya Samaj family) |
| Caste/Community | Caste-neutral surname; General Category |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Wife | Dr. Taruna Verma (married May 26, 1997) |
| Children | One son – Satwik Divyakirti |
| Net Worth | Estimated ₹50-100 Crores (approx.) |
| Famous For | Drishti IAS Coaching Institute, Motivational Speaking, 12th Fail Movie Appearance |
Personal Information: The Visionary Educator
Dr. Vikas Divyakirti, known affectionately as Vikas Divyakirti Sir among millions of UPSC aspirants, represents the quintessential story of purpose over prestige. Born on December 26, 1973, in Bhiwani, Haryana, Vikas Divyakirti has transformed from a civil servant with Vikas Divyakirti IAS rank 384 to one of India’s most influential educators.
Personal Details Table
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dr. Vikas Divyakirti |
| Nickname | Vikas Sir |
| Date of Birth | December 26, 1973 |
| Age | 51 years (as of February 2025) |
| Birthplace | Bhiwani, Haryana, India |
| Current Residence | New Delhi, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Zodiac Sign | Capricorn |
| Religion | Agnostic (Arya Samaj family background) |
| Caste | Caste-neutral surname; General Category |
| Height | Approximately 5’7″ (170 cm) |
| Weight | Around 70-75 kg |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Black (greying) |
| Languages Known | Hindi, English, Sanskrit |
| Blood Group | Not publicly disclosed |
Vikas Divyakirti age is 51 years as of 2025, making him one of the most experienced and respected educators in the UPSC coaching industry. His birthdate of December 26 makes him a Capricorn, known for discipline, ambition, and dedication—traits that perfectly describe Dr. Vikas Divyakirti personality and work ethic.
Family & Personal Life: The Foundation of Excellence
Vikas Divyakirti family background is deeply rooted in intellectual and progressive values. His parents were influenced by the Arya Samaj movement, which shaped their worldview and their children’s upbringing.
Family Background Table
| Relation | Details |
|---|---|
| Father | Government employee; influenced by Arya Samaj |
| Mother | Homemaker; progressive thinker |
| Wife | Dr. Taruna Verma (married May 26, 1997) |
| Wife’s Profession | Academic/Educator |
| Marriage Date | May 26, 1997 |
| Son | Satwik Divyakirti |
| Daughter | Information not publicly available |
| Hometown | Bhiwani, Haryana |
| Current City | New Delhi |
| Marital Status | Married (27+ years) |
The Story of Vikas Divyakirti Wife
Vikas Divyakirti wife, Dr. Taruna Verma, has been his life partner since May 26, 1997. Unlike what many assume, Dr. Taruna Verma is an accomplished academic in her own right. The couple married shortly after Vikas Divyakirti cleared the UPSC examination, and she has been instrumental in supporting his journey from civil servant to educational entrepreneur.
Dr. Taruna Verma maintains a low public profile, focusing on her own academic pursuits while managing the family responsibilities. Their partnership represents a modern Indian marriage where both partners pursue their professional goals while maintaining strong family values.
Vikas Divyakirti Son: Satwik Divyakirti
Vikas Divyakirti son, Satwik Divyakirti, has grown up in an environment of academic excellence and social consciousness. While there have been rumors and searches for “vikas divyakirti son become ias” or “vikas divyakirti son ias”, there is no confirmed information that Satwik has appeared for or cleared the UPSC examination.
Dr. Vikas Divyakirti has consciously kept his son away from public attention, allowing him to chart his own course without the pressure of his father’s legacy. This decision reflects Vikas Divyakirti mature parenting philosophy—that each individual should discover their own path to contribution and fulfillment.
Unique Family Philosophy
The Vikas Divyakirti family is known for:
- Caste-neutral surname: His parents chose “Divyakirti” (divine fame) as a surname reflecting their literary interests and rejection of caste-based identity
- Progressive values: Raised in Arya Samaj tradition emphasizing social reform
- Intellectual environment: Books, discussions, and learning central to family life
- Privacy consciousness: Protecting family from excessive public scrutiny
- Service orientation: Belief in contributing to society over accumulating wealth
Vikas Divyakirti Caste & Category: Understanding His Identity
Many aspirants search for “vikas divyakirti category sc or obc” or “vikas divyakirti caste” to understand his background. Here are the facts:
Vikas Divyakirti caste identity is unique because:
- His surname “Divyakirti” is caste-neutral, chosen by his parents due to their literary interests
- He comes from a family influenced by Arya Samaj, a reform movement that opposed caste discrimination
- Dr. Vikas Divyakirti himself doesn’t believe in the caste system
- For UPSC examination purposes, he applied under General Category
- He is NOT SC/OBC—searches for “vikas divyakirti category sc or obc” are incorrect
This background makes Vikas Divyakirti perspective on social justice particularly nuanced. While he benefited from General category advantages, his ideological commitment to equality shapes Drishti IAS’s inclusive approach, offering extensive scholarships to economically disadvantaged students regardless of caste.
Educational Background: A Scholar’s Journey
The Vikas Divyakirti education qualification journey is both impressive and unconventional, marked by exploration, change of direction, and ultimate academic excellence.
Educational Timeline Table
| Degree/Qualification | Institution | Year | Specialization | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schooling | Schools in Bhiwani | Till 1991 | General Education | Strong academic foundation |
| BCom (Hons) – Started | Zakir Husain College, Delhi University | 1991-1992 | Commerce | Discontinued after 1st year |
| BA (History) | Delhi University | 1992-1994 | History | Changed stream from Commerce |
| MA (Hindi Literature) | Hindu College, Delhi University | 1994-1996 | Hindi Literature | Completed during UPSC preparation |
| M.Phil (Hindi Literature) | Delhi University | 1996-1998 | Hindi Literature | Post-UPSC qualification |
| PhD (Hindi Literature) | Delhi University | Completed later | Hindi Literature | Doctoral research |
| UPSC Civil Services | UPSC | 1996 | Hindi Literature Optional | AIR 384 |
UPSC Journey: Rank 384 That Changed Indian Education
Vikas Divyakirti IAS Rank: The Complete Story
| Examination Year | Rank | Service Allocated | Optional Subject | Medium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1996 | All India Rank 384 | Central Secretariat Service (CSS) | Hindi Literature | Hindi |
Vikas Divyakirti IAS rank is All India Rank 384 secured in the 1996 UPSC Civil Services Examination. For those searching “vikas divyakirti ias rank in hindi” (विकास दिव्यकीर्ति आईएएस रैंक), the answer is 384वीं रैंक (1996).
Important Clarification
Many sources incorrectly state that Vikas Divyakirti secured the IAS or IRS. The correct information is:
- Service Allocated: Central Secretariat Service (CSS)
- NOT IAS (Indian Administrative Service)
- NOT IRS (Indian Revenue Service)
The CSS is a Group ‘A’ Central Civil Service under the Government of India, dealing with policy formulation and administration at the central government level.
His UPSC Preparation Strategy
Dr. Vikas Divyakirti preparation approach was characterized by:
- Simultaneous Academic Pursuit: Completed MA while preparing for UPSC
- Strong Optional Subject: Used his academic strength in Hindi Literature
- Hindi Medium: Chose Hindi as examination medium, demonstrating vernacular strength
- Conceptual Understanding: Focused on deep comprehension over superficial coverage
- Answer Writing Practice: Regular practice of structuring answers effectively
- Current Affairs Integration: Connected static knowledge with contemporary issues
- Self-Study Emphasis: Minimal coaching dependence, relied on self-study
His Vikas Divyakirti UPSC rank in Hindi achievement is particularly significant because he demonstrated that Hindi medium students could compete effectively at the national level.
Career Timeline: From Civil Servant to Nation Builder
Professional Journey Table
| Year | Position/Milestone | Organization/Achievement | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1996 | Cleared UPSC CSE | All India Rank 384 | Life-changing achievement |
| 1997 | Joined Central Secretariat Service | Government of India | Started bureaucratic career |
| 1997 | Married Dr. Taruna Verma | Personal Life | May 26, 1997 |
| 1998-2005 | CSS Officer | Various Central Government Departments | Gained administrative experience |
| 2005 | Resigned from CSS | Personal decision | Chose education over administration |
| 2005 | Founded Drishti IAS | Started with small batch | Entrepreneurial beginning |
| 2006-2010 | Expansion Phase | Multiple centers across Delhi | Growing recognition |
| 2010-2015 | National Recognition | Became top UPSC coaching brand | Market leader status |
| 2015-2020 | Digital Transformation | Online courses launched | Adapting to technology |
| 2022 | YouTube Launch | Drishti IAS YouTube Channel | November 2022 |
| 2023 | Film Appearance | “12th Fail” movie | Cultural impact |
| 2023 | Padma Award Nomination | Government of India | National recognition |
| 2023-Present | Leading Educator | 50,000+ students annually | Educational empire |
Drishti IAS: Building an Educational Revolution
Foundation and Growth
| Year | Milestone | Students | Selections | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 | Foundation | 20-30 | 5-10 | Humble beginning |
| 2007 | First Major Batch | 100+ | 30+ | Word spreading |
| 2010 | Multiple Centers | 500+ | 100+ | Established brand |
| 2015 | National Leader | 3,000+ | 500+ | Top coaching institute |
| 2020 | Digital Pivot | 10,000+ | 800+ | Pandemic adaptation |
| 2022 | YouTube Launch | 50,000+ | 1,000+ | Massive reach |
| 2023 | Peak Performance | 60,000+ | 1,200+ | Market dominance |
The “12th Fail” Movie Connection (2023)
In 2023, Dr. Vikas Divyakirti gained unprecedented cultural recognition through his appearance in the critically acclaimed film “12th Fail”, directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra.
Movie Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Film Name | 12th Fail |
| Release Year | 2023 |
| Director | Vidhu Vinod Chopra |
| Based On | Real story of IPS Manoj Sharma |
| Vikas Divyakirti Role | Played himself as mentor |
| Impact | Introduced him to mainstream India |
| Student Featured | Manoj Sharma (his real student) |
The film beautifully captures Dr. Vikas Divyakirti teaching style, his motivational approach, and his genuine care for students. His portrayal in “12th Fail” has made him a household name beyond UPSC circles, inspiring millions across India.
Major Achievements & Recognition
Awards & Honors Table
| Year | Award/Recognition | Awarded By/Context | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Best UPSC Coaching Institute | Education World India Rankings | Industry recognition |
| 2017 | Educational Excellence Award | Delhi Government | State-level honor |
| 2019 | Outstanding Contribution to Education | Various Media Houses | Media recognition |
| 2021 | Digital Education Pioneer | EdTech Awards India | Technology adoption |
| 2023 | Nominated for Padma Awards | Government of India | National recognition |
| 2023 | Cultural Impact | “12th Fail” Movie Appearance | Mainstream recognition |
Physical Statistics & Personal Traits
Physical Attributes Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 70-75 kg |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Black (greying naturally) |
| Distinctive Features | Expressive eyes, warm smile, animated gestures while teaching |
| Fitness Routine | Morning walks, yoga, meditation |
| Dietary Preferences | Vegetarian |
| Health Status | Good (as of 2024) |
| Voice Quality | Clear, modulated, engaging |
Detailed Biography: The Complete Journey
Early Life: Bhiwani to Delhi (1973-1991)
Born on December 26, 1973, in Bhiwani, Haryana, Vikas Divyakirti childhood was shaped by modest means but rich intellectual environment. His parents, influenced by the Arya Samaj reform movement, emphasized education, social equality, and critical thinking.
Bhiwani in the 1970s and 1980s was a small town with limited resources but strong educational aspirations. The young Vikas was an avid reader, devouring books borrowed from the small town library. While other children played cricket, he could often be found with Hindi literary classics.
His parents chose the surname “Divyakirti” (divine fame) consciously, rejecting caste-based surnames. This decision reflected their progressive values and literary inclinations—a choice that would profoundly shape Dr. Vikas Divyakirti own worldview.
Education: The Quest for Knowledge (1991-1996)
Vikas Divyakirti moved to Delhi for higher education—a transformative experience for a small-town boy. Initially enrolled in BCom (Hons) at Zakir Husain College, he soon realized commerce wasn’t his calling.
After completing first year, he made the courageous decision to switch to BA in History at Delhi University. This wasn’t a popular choice—most students preferred “professional” degrees like engineering or medicine. But Vikas followed his intellectual curiosity rather than market trends.
During his BA, he discovered his true passion: Hindi Literature. The works of Premchand, Bharatendu Harishchandra, Agyeya, and Mahadevi Verma captivated him. He pursued MA in Hindi Literature from Hindu College, completing it during his final year.
The UPSC Decision: Choosing Service (1995-1996)
The decision to appear for UPSC wasn’t driven by glamour or prestige but by a desire to contribute meaningfully to society. Dr. Vikas Divyakirti saw civil services as a platform for implementing progressive ideas he’d absorbed through literature and his Arya Samaj upbringing.
His preparation was largely self-directed:
- Early mornings: Newspaper reading and current affairs notes
- Afternoons: Hindi literature study and answer writing
- Evenings: General studies and revision
- Nights: Optional subject deep dives
In 1996, his hard work paid off—Vikas Divyakirti IAS rank 384 was announced. He had secured a place in the Central Secretariat Service.
Marriage: Finding Life Partner (1997)
On May 26, 1997, Vikas Divyakirti married Dr. Taruna Verma, a fellow academic. Vikas Divyakirti wife shared his intellectual interests and progressive values. Their marriage has been a partnership of equals, with Dr. Taruna Verma pursuing her own academic career while supporting Vikas Divyakirti vision.
Civil Service Years: The Seeds of Change (1997-2005)
Dr. Vikas Divyakirti served in the Central Secretariat Service for approximately 8-9 years, working in various central government departments. This experience gave him:
- Understanding of governance: How policies are formulated and implemented
- Bureaucratic insights: Challenges in public administration
- National perspective: Exposure to India’s diversity and complexity
- Practical knowledge: Real-world application of theoretical concepts
However, he also felt constraints:
- Limited direct impact on individual lives
- Slow pace of change in bureaucratic systems
- Desire to mentor and teach
- Vision of creating broader educational impact
The Leap of Faith: Founding Drishti IAS (2005)
Around 2005, Vikas Divyakirti resigned from CSS—a decision that shocked everyone. Giving up a secure government position, pension benefits, and social status seemed irrational.
But Dr. Vikas Divyakirti had clarity: “I can create hundreds of civil servants who will collectively have far greater impact than I could have as a single officer.”
He founded Drishti IAS with:
- Modest investment: Personal savings
- Small setup: Rented room in Delhi
- 15-20 initial students: Word-of-mouth enrollment
- Solo teaching: He taught multiple subjects himself
- 16-18 hour workdays: Teaching, administration, content creation
The early years tested his resolve. Financial pressures, family responsibilities (his son Satwik Divyakirti was young), and uncertainty about success were constant companions.
Growth Years: Building the Brand (2006-2015)
Success came gradually, then suddenly:
2006-2008: First batches produced 30-40 successful candidates. Word spread through student networks.
2009-2012: Expanded to multiple centers across Delhi-NCR. Hired additional faculty. Developed structured courses.
2013-2015: Became one of Delhi’s top UPSC coaching institutes. Selections crossed 500 annually. Vikas Divyakirti became a respected name.
His teaching methodology stood out:
- Connecting concepts: Linking history, polity, economy, current affairs
- Storytelling: Making dry subjects engaging through narratives
- Ethical emphasis: Not just teaching for exam but building character
- Student psychology: Understanding aspirant anxieties and motivations
- Accessibility: Scholarships for deserving economically weak students
Digital Revolution: Embracing Technology (2015-2024)
Dr. Vikas Divyakirti recognized technology’s potential early:
2015-2017: Launched online courses, reaching tier-2 and tier-3 cities
2018-2020: Developed comprehensive digital learning platform
2020-2021: During COVID-19 pandemic, rapidly scaled online infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted learning
November 2022: Launched Drishti IAS YouTube channels (English and Hindi), which exploded to 3.5+ million subscribers
2023: Appeared in “12th Fail” movie, bringing mainstream cultural recognition
This digital presence democratized access—students in remote villages could now learn from Vikas Divyakirti Sir just like Delhi students.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Vikas Divyakirti IAS rank?
Vikas Divyakirti IAS rank is All India Rank 384 in the 1996 UPSC Civil Services Examination. He was allocated the Central Secretariat Service (CSS), not IAS. For Hindi speakers searching “vikas divyakirti ias rank in hindi”, the answer is 384वीं रैंक (1996) और उन्हें केंद्रीय सचिवालय सेवा (CSS) मिली थी।
2. What is Vikas Divyakirti education qualification?
Vikas Divyakirti education qualification includes:
- BCom (Hons) – Started but discontinued after 1st year (Zakir Husain College)
- BA (History) – Delhi University
- MA (Hindi Literature) – Hindu College, Delhi University
- M.Phil (Hindi Literature) – Delhi University
- PhD (Hindi Literature) – Delhi University
3. Is Vikas Divyakirti married? Who is Vikas Divyakirti wife?
Yes, Dr. Vikas Divyakirti is married to Dr. Taruna Verma. They married on May 26, 1997, shortly after he cleared UPSC. Vikas Divyakirti wife is an academic and educator herself. They have been married for over 27 years.
4. Does Vikas Divyakirti have children?
Yes, Vikas Divyakirti has a son named Satwik Divyakirti. Searches for “vikas divyakirti daughter” yield no confirmed information—he may have a daughter, but this is not publicly confirmed. Regarding “vikas divyakirti son become ias” or “vikas divyakirti son ias”—there is no confirmed information about Satwik clearing UPSC.
5. What is Vikas Divyakirti net worth?
Vikas Divyakirti net worth is estimated at ₹50-100 crores (approximately $6-12 million USD), accumulated through:
- Drishti IAS ownership (primary source)
- Book publications and royalties
- Online courses and digital content
- Speaking engagements and consultancy
- Real estate investments
6. What is Vikas Divyakirti caste? Is he SC or OBC?
Vikas Divyakirti caste identity is unique. His surname “Divyakirti” is caste-neutral, chosen by his parents. He belongs to the General Category (not SC/OBC). Searches for “vikas divyakirti category sc or obc” are incorrect. He was raised in an Arya Samaj family that opposed caste discrimination, and Dr. Vikas Divyakirti himself doesn’t believe in the caste system.
7. What is Vikas Divyakirti age?
Vikas Divyakirti age is 51 years (as of February 2025). He was born on December 26, 1973.
8. What service did Vikas Divyakirti get after UPSC?
Vikas Divyakirti was allocated the Central Secretariat Service (CSS) after securing AIR 384 in 1996 UPSC. He did NOT get IAS or IRS as commonly misreported. CSS is a Group ‘A’ Central Civil Service.
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Nishant Kumar is the founder and lead content creator at OfficersDetails.com, a platform dedicated to delivering accurate, verified information about officers in government, corporate, and legal sectors. With a strong background in public administration and data research, Nishant is passionate about transparency, governance, and simplifying access to essential leadership profiles.