The concept of ‘brain drain’ has long dominated various discourses on migration of skilled individuals and professionals. Conventionally, policymakers and scholars have warned that emigration of educated talent diminishes the developmental prospects of the originating country. This study highlights the growing critique of the very foundation of the ‘brain drain’ concept by contesting the premise that people’s talent constitutes a monolithic national resource. It argues that all individuals possess inherent rights to free mobility and job autonomy, and their skills and talents should neither be owned, nor controlled by state authorities. With universalization of these rights and principles the concept of brain drain becomes obsolete and untenable, instead countries may adopt policies that incentivize the return of skilled emigrants back home. The article has a clear red-thread, helping readers to follow a well-structured convincing argument. It starts with manifesting the universality and inviolability of human rights and freedom of movement, including the right to leave own country, as a central foundation of the critique of ‘brain drain’. The article continues with an argument to stop using ‘brain drain’ discourse and utilize instead ‘brain circulation’, presenting representative examples of policies in both origin and destination countries, encouraging skilled migration for the benefit of all. It also addresses the sports migration as an example of win-win enterprise. The article presents the case study of India as an excellent illustration how to end the ‘brain drain’ excuses. Finally, some conclusions and recommendations for future research are listed.