15-Day Marriage to UPSC AIR 591: Komal Gatra's inspiring journey that started at 26 after a broken marriage

For Komal Ganatra, the most painful question wasn't about exams or results but, "Where is your husband?" Each time someone asked, she felt a piece of her confidence crumble. But deep down, she made a promise to herself that one day, she would answer that question with her success.

Komal's journey began in Gujarat, where she studied in Gujarati medium schools and later pursued graduation through an open university. She didn't stop there, she earned degrees in three different languages.

Her first taste of success came when she cleared the Gujarat Public Service Commission (GPSC) exam. But life had other plans. At 26, she married an NRI who opposed her career aspirations. Just 15 days after their wedding, he left for New Zealand and cut off all contact. Komal was left alone, facing societal judgment and personal heartbreak.

Many advised her to divorce and remarry. But Komal chose a different path. She took a teaching job 40 kilometers from home, earning just Rs. 5,000 a month. Despite the distance and financial constraints, she never gave up on her dream of cracking the UPSC exam.