Aligarh daily wage earner cracks IIT JEE: A remarkable achievement

Gagan, a young man from Atrauli, Aligarh, has become an inspiring figure through his remarkable success in the highly competitive IIT JEE exams. Despite hailing from a modest background in a small town, Gagan’s story is one of determination, hard work, and perseverance.

Gagan shared his journey during a conversation with Alakh Pandey, the CEO and founder of Physics Wallah (PW). He disclosed that his ultimate objective was to gain admission to one of the top universities in the nation: IIT. To achieve this, Gagan decided to take a year off after high school to focus solely on his preparation for the IIT JEE exams. This dedicated year of intense study paid off when he received an impressive All India Rank (AIR) of 5286 in IIT JEE Advanced 2024. Through relentless effort and unwavering determination, Gagan secured admission into IIT BHU, specializing in Electrical and Communication Engineering.

Family Background

Gagan’s family background adds another layer to his inspiring tale. His father works as a godown keeper at a gas agency, supporting a family of six. To help alleviate some of the financial burdens, Gagan and his older brother began working from a young age, lifting gas cylinders and earning ₹ 350 per day. Despite these physically demanding responsibilities, Gagan remained steadfast in his academic pursuits. He witnessed many children in his town having to labour to support their families, often at the expense of their education. Gagan, however, did not let these circumstances deter him from his goal of clearing IIT JEE.

Reflecting on his journey, Gagan recounted the daily routine of lifting 250 gas cylinders with his brother. They earned ₹ 350 each day, a sum that contributed significantly to their family’s income. Gagan’s dedication to his education was evident as he worked nonstop throughout the day and utilized his mobile device to study online at night. The balancing act between supporting his family and pursuing his education was challenging, but Gagan’s determination never wavered.

The Road to IIT JEE

The turning point in Gagan’s academic career came with the help of Physics Wallah’s online courses. These courses provided him with the resources and guidance needed to improve his grades throughout high school. With consistent effort and commitment, Gagan qualified for IIT JEE Mains twice. However, his ultimate objective was to pass IIT JEE Advanced and secure a place in an IIT. This ambition drove him to push his limits and strive for excellence.

Gagan’s dedication and hard work did not go unnoticed. Alakh Pandey, recognizing Gagan’s tenacity and potential, offered him a scholarship of ₹ 4 lakh. This generous offer was a testament to Gagan’s relentless pursuit of his goals and the significant progress he had made. Moreover, Mr. Pandey extended an offer of employment to both Gagan and his older brother at Physics Wallah. This opportunity not only provided financial support but also acknowledged their perseverance and commitment.

Gagan’s story is a beacon of hope for many young aspirants from small towns who face similar challenges. It underscores the importance of determination, hard work, and the willingness to overcome obstacles. Gagan’s journey from lifting gas cylinders to securing admission at IIT BHU is a testament to the power of education and the impact of supportive platforms like Physics Wallah.

His success has also highlighted the broader issue of educational access and support for underprivileged students. Many children in Gagan’s town and similar communities are forced into labour to support their families, often at the cost of their education. Gagan’s achievement serves as a reminder that with the right support and opportunities, students from all backgrounds can achieve their dreams.

As Gagan embarks on his journey at IIT JEE, his story will undoubtedly inspire many others to pursue their dreams despite the odds. His relentless pursuit of education, balanced with his responsibilities at home, exemplifies the resilience and determination needed to succeed. With the support of platforms like Physics Wallah and individuals like Alakh Pandey, more students like Gagan can hope to overcome their circumstances and achieve their aspirations.

In conclusion, Gagan’s journey from a small town in Aligarh to the prestigious halls of IIT BHU is a powerful narrative of perseverance, dedication, and the transformative power of education. His story is a source of inspiration for countless young minds aspiring to overcome their circumstances and reach for the stars.

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