Born into a family of freedom fighters, Pranab Mukherjee finished his Masters’ degree in History and Political Science, and Law from the University of Kolkata. Dr Mukherjee worked as a college teacher and a journalist before plunging full-time into politics in 1969. Under the watchful eyes of the late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Dr Mukherjee took rapid strides in his political career. He would go on to have an unparalleled experience in governance with the rare distinction of having served at different times as Foreign, Defence, Commerce and Finance Minister. He assumed office as the 13th President of India on July 25, 2012, crowning a political career of over five decades of exemplary service to the nation in Government as well as Parliament. He passed away on August 31 at the age of 84.