UPSC Topper Abhishek Sharma: How a Hindi poem changed his journey from failure to AIR 38 — read it here

IAS Abhishek Sharma

For many, cracking the UPSC Civil Services Examination is a distant dream. For Abhishek Sharma, a young man from a small town in Madhya Pradesh, it became a reality through perseverance, self-reflection and a powerful verse that changed his mindset.

Abhishek's father, Ashok Sharma, is an English teacher at a Navodaya Vidyalaya. Growing up in an academic environment, Abhishek always aspired to serve the nation as an IAS officer. He began his UPSC journey with immense confidence, feeling fully prepared to conquer the exam. However, this very confidence became his stumbling block.

He admits that he took his first two attempts lightly and failed. The back-to-back failures left him disheartened. Doubts crept in, and he considered giving up on his dream. It was during this low phase that the support of his family and friends became his anchor. They encouraged him to regroup and try again.

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But what truly reignited his spirit was a Hindi poem by poet Arjun Sisodia. The lines—"युद्ध नहीं जिनके जीवन में, वे भी बड़े अभागे होंगे, या तो प्रण को तोड़ा होगा, या तो रण से भागे होंगे"—resonated deeply with him. He pinned these words on his study table. Whenever his motivation dipped, the poem reminded him that struggles are a part of life, and only those who persevere emerge victorious.

With renewed determination, Abhishek changed his approach. He stopped counting study hours and instead focused on completing daily targets. Consistency became his mantra. He also constantly reminded himself of his parents' sacrifices, which strengthened his resolve to not lose hope.

Abhishek, who chose Physics as his optional subject, emphasizes the importance of linking static syllabus topics with current affairs. He advises aspirants to study with clarity, understanding not just what to study but why it matters.

In the UPSC CSE 2024 results, Abhishek Sharma secured an impressive All India Rank of 38. His journey is proof of the power of resilience, the importance of a strong support system and the courage to turn setbacks into comebacks.