Sanjay’s story is one of grit and perseverance. Despite growing up in a financially struggling household, he never let adversity deter his ambition. His mother stitched clothes late into the night, while his grandmother sold fruits to support the family. Education was uncertain, and his hearing impairment made classroom learning especially challenging.
Overcoming Challenges
Sanjay faced four consecutive failures in UPSC prelims before finally clearing the exam in 2025. His disability made it difficult to follow lectures, but he relied on self-study, accessibility tools, and mentorship to strengthen his preparation. His persistence in revising, practicing mock tests, and building conceptual clarity became the foundation of his success.
Inspiration For Aspirants
Sanjay’s achievement proves that success in UPSC is not defined by privilege but by persistence. His journey inspires aspirants to embrace challenges, remain consistent, and believe in their potential. His story also highlights the importance of family support and accessible education for differently-abled candidates.
Key Highlights
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Sanjay S. secures AIR 953 in UPSC 2025
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Raised by a tailor mother and fruit-seller grandmother
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Hearing-impaired candidate who overcame classroom challenges
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Cleared UPSC after four prelims failures
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Relied on self-study, mentorship, and accessibility tools
Sources: Times Now, Indian Masterminds, YouTube