St. Columba’s School: A Legacy of Excellence and the Alma Mater of Legends

Founded in 1941 by the Congregation of Christian Brothers, St. Columba’s School in New Delhi is one of India’s most prestigious and respected educational institutions. Situated in the heart of the capital, the school has a rich legacy of academic, cultural, and sporting excellence. Over the decades, it has nurtured countless students, many of whom have gone on to achieve greatness in various fields. Among its most famous alumni is none other than Shah Rukh Khan, the global superstar and Bollywood icon.

The History of St. Columba’s School: A Journey of Tradition and Progress

St. Columba’s was established with the vision of providing quality education with an emphasis on discipline, moral values, and holistic development. The school’s motto, “Virtue and Labour,” encapsulates its core philosophy, encouraging students to lead lives rooted in integrity and hard work.

Originally set up to cater to the growing population of Catholic boys in Delhi, St. Columba’s quickly became known for its inclusive approach, offering admission to students from all faiths and backgrounds. Its sprawling campus, with modern classrooms, science laboratories, libraries, and sports facilities, has remained a center of learning for decades, creating an environment conducive to academic and personal growth.

Over the years, St. Columba’s has remained committed to a balanced education—fostering not just intellectual prowess but also creativity, leadership, and empathy. Many Columbans have gone on to excel in fields such as business, politics, sports, arts, and entertainment.

Shah Rukh Khan’s School Life: The Making of a Star

Before he was the “King of Bollywood,” Shah Rukh Khan was a regular student at St. Columba’s School, but even then, he showed signs of the brilliance and charisma that would later make him a global icon. Shah Rukh attended St. Columba’s from a young age, and his time at the school played a significant role in shaping his personality and values.

Achievements in School

Shah Rukh Khan was not just academically bright; he was also an all-rounder. His school years saw him excelling in both academics and extracurricular activities. He was known for his leadership qualities, quick wit, and ability to connect with his peers. However, it was his involvement in sports and acting that truly set him apart.

Shah Rukh was an excellent athlete. He was part of the school’s hockey and football teams, and his competitive spirit earned him several accolades. He often credits his time in sports for instilling in him the discipline and focus that would later help him in his acting career.

More notably, Shah Rukh’s first taste of acting came at St. Columba’s. He was an active participant in school plays, and his theatrical performances were highly praised by teachers and students alike. His natural flair for drama and storytelling was evident, and it was during these early years that his passion for acting began to take shape.

The Sword of Honour

One of Shah Rukh Khan’s most significant achievements at St. Columba’s was winning the “Sword of Honour”, the school’s highest award, given to the student who excels in academics, sports, and overall contribution to school life. The award is a testament to his well-rounded personality and his ability to balance different aspects of school life, a quality that would later define his multifaceted career in Bollywood.

Shah Rukh Khan often speaks fondly of his time at St. Columba’s, recalling how the school provided him with the foundation to explore his talents. His teachers and friends remember him as someone who was driven yet grounded, a quality that has remained with him throughout his life.

Other Notable Alumni from St. Columba’s

Shah Rukh Khan is not the only luminary to have walked the halls of St. Columba’s School. Over the years, the school has produced several other notable personalities who have made significant contributions to society.

1. Kunal Nayyar – Best known for his role as Rajesh Koothrappali in the hit TV series “The Big Bang Theory,” Kunal Nayyar is another Columban who has achieved international fame. After his schooling, Kunal moved to the United States, where he pursued acting and gained global recognition for his comedic talent.
2. Rahul Gandhi – A prominent figure in Indian politics and the former president of the Indian National Congress, Rahul Gandhi is an alumnus of St. Columba’s. Known for his work in social causes and political reform, Rahul’s early education at the school helped lay the foundation for his later public service.
3. Dr. Anil Wilson – A renowned educationist and former principal of St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, Dr. Anil Wilson was a Columban who made immense contributions to the academic world in India.
4. Ambika Soni – A senior Indian politician and a member of the Indian National Congress, Ambika Soni has been a significant force in Indian politics, serving in various capacities, including as the Minister of Information and Broadcasting.

These individuals, alongside Shah Rukh Khan, reflect the diversity of talent and leadership that St. Columba’s has nurtured over the years.