Who is Sundar Pichai: 7 fascinating facts about Google’s CEO you never knew

If you’ve ever searched for something on Google, streamed a YouTube video, or used Gmail, chances are Sundar Pichai has influenced your digital life.

Born Pichai Sundararajan in Madurai, India, in 1972, he grew up in a modest household where luxuries like television and personal computers were out of reach.

Despite that, his sharp intellect and relentless drive helped him rise through the ranks of Silicon Valley to become the CEO of Google in 2015 and later the CEO of Alphabet Inc., Google’s parent company, in 2019.

While many are familiar with his broad story, there are fascinating details about his life and career that remain lesser known.

1. A childhood without technology

Despite leading the most powerful tech company in the world, Pichai’s childhood was surprisingly low-tech.

He grew up in a two-room apartment in Chennai without a television or computer. His first real exposure to technology came when his family bought a rotary telephone.

2. Has multiple degrees

Pichai’s academic journey is as impressive as his career. He earned a Bachelor of Technology in Metallurgical Engineering from the prestigious IIT Kharagpur before moving to the US for further studies.

He completed his Master’s degree in Material Sciences and Engineering at Stanford University, followed by an MBA from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, where he was named a Siebel Scholar and a Palmer Scholar.

3. His Google interview was on April Fool’s Day

When Pichai interviewed for Google in 2004, the company had just announced Gmail on April 1. 

Many assumed it was a prank because Google was known for elaborate April Fool’s jokes.

During his early interviews, Pichai struggled to answer questions about Gmail since he hadn’t seen it yet. 

By his fourth interview, he finally got a demo and impressed his interviewers with his insights

4. Pichai nearly became Microsoft’s CEO

Few know that in 2014, Pichai was also considered a strong contender for the Microsoft CEO role.

While the position ultimately went to Satya Nadella, Pichai’s reputation as a visionary leader was already attracting global attention.

5. The man behind Chrome and Android

Pichai is often credited with championing projects that became Google’s biggest successes. 

He played a pivotal role in the development of Google Chrome, which went on to dominate the web browser market.

Later, he also oversaw the integration of Android into Google’s product family, transforming it into the world’s most widely used mobile operating system.

6. He is a family man

Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Pichai values family deeply. He married Anjali Pichai, his college sweetheart from IIT Kharagpur.

The couple is known for their grounded lifestyle and has two children.

7. Has an incredible memory for phone numbers

One of Pichai’s unique abilities is his remarkable memory. He reportedly remembers every phone number he has ever dialed, a rare gift that amazes people around him.

While many know him as the man who runs Google, these lesser-known facts reveal a more personal, inspiring side to his journey.