University of York confers honorary degrees on N. R. Narayana Murthy and Lord Karan Bilimoria during Summer 2026 graduation ceremonies

Mumbai : The University of York conferred Honorary Degrees on N. R. Narayana Murthy, Founder of Infosys, and Lord Karan Bilimoria CBE DL, entrepreneur, businessman, Founder of Cobra Beer and Crossbench Member of the House of Lords, during its Summer 2026 graduation ceremonies.

The honorary degrees recognised their exceptional contributions to business, entrepreneurship and society, celebrating their enduring impact in the United Kingdom and globally. They joined a distinguished group of individuals honoured by the University during this year’s graduation ceremonies.

Each year, the University of York confers honorary degrees on individuals who have made significant contributions across a wide range of fields, including education, business, science, the arts, public service and social impact. Honorary graduands are nominated by members of the University community and recognised for their outstanding achievements, leadership and close alignment with the University’s values and mission.

N. R. Narayana Murthy is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of India’s technology industry. As the founder of Infosys, he played a pivotal role in shaping India’s global IT services sector and has long been recognised for his commitment to ethical leadership, innovation and inclusive economic growth.

Lord Karan Bilimoria is an internationally recognised entrepreneur and business leader. Founder of Cobra Beer, he has been a prominent advocate for entrepreneurship, higher education and UK–India relations. In addition to his business achievements, he serves as a Crossbench Member of the House of Lords and has held leadership roles across several academic and business institutions.

Commenting on the announcement, Professor Lindsay Oades, Provost, University of York Mumbai, said: “Our honorary graduates represent the very best of leadership, innovation and public service. We are delighted to recognise Narayana Murthy and Lord Karan Bilimoria for their extraordinary contributions to business, entrepreneurship and society. Their achievements embody many of the values we seek to inspire in our students as they prepare to make a positive impact on the world.”

N. R. Narayana Murthy said, “I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from the University of York. As graduates embark on the next chapter of their lives, I encourage them to remember that success is built on two enduring principles, competence and values. Competence enables us to solve problems and create impact, while values inspire trust among colleagues, stakeholders and society. Whatever career path you choose, let these principles guide your decisions and define your legacy.”

Lord Karan Bilimoria said, “I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from the University of York. As graduates embark on the next chapter of their lives, I encourage them to celebrate not only their own achievements but also the people who have supported them along the way. Success is built through the guidance of inspiring teachers, the encouragement of friends and classmates, and the unwavering belief of family. As a father of graduates myself, I know this milestone is shared by everyone who has been part of your journey. Cherish this moment, remain grateful, and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.”

The Summer 2026 graduation ceremonies celebrated the achievements of graduating students while recognising individuals whose work has created a lasting impact across industries and communities. Narayana Murthy and Lord Karan Bilimoria joined a distinguished list of honorary graduates recognised by the University of York over the years for their outstanding contributions to society.