Bill Gates reveals four Indians he’d love to dine with

During a recent appearance on the podcast Figuring Out with Raj Shamani, Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates shared his admiration for Indian talent by naming four Indians—Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Ratan Tata, Dr. Maharaj Kishan Bhan, and mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan—as his dream dinner companions.

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When asked to pick just three Indians, living or deceased, for an ideal dinner conversation, Gates went beyond the limit, reflecting on the depth of India's intellectual and leadership pool. He praised PM Modi’s leadership and long-term vision, particularly in relation to India’s development goals for 2047. Gates, who has met Modi multiple times, expressed interest in further understanding how India plans to achieve those ambitions.

He also spoke highly of Ratan Tata, acknowledging their collaboration on philanthropic efforts and Tata’s influence on India’s innovation landscape. Gates cited their joint work in advancing social causes and fostering technological progress.

Among scientists, Gates recalled his interaction with the late Dr. MK Bhan, a pioneering figure in Indian biotechnology, lauding his scientific acumen and impact on public health. He also expressed fascination with Srinivasa Ramanujan, noting the mathematician’s extraordinary intellect and lasting legacy.

Gates further commended India’s dynamic startup environment, particularly the growing role of artificial intelligence in healthcare. Although pressed to limit his list, he admitted it was difficult given the abundance of remarkable Indian minds.