The son of a stockbroker in New Delhi, his parents wanted him to study at Harvard University but instead he opted for Purdue University as he felt it would benefit his golfing career. Subsequently became an All-American and has become one of the most successful Indian golfers, winning the 2000 Malaysian Amateur Open Championship, the 2002 Asian Games Individual Gold Medal and the 2002 Indian Amateur Open Championship. Came agonisingly close to a maiden European Tour victory in 2010 when he lost out in a play-off with Richie Ramsay for the South African Open Championship. Played in the Eisenhower Trophy in 2000 and 2002 and was part of the winning Bonallack Trophy team in 2002 and 2004. Turned professional after that success and made a huge impact on the 2005 Asian Tour, winning the Rookie of the Year title after taking the Volvo Masters of Asia title.