Azharuddin Qazi, a young man from the humble town of Yawatmal in Maharashtra, recently achieved the remarkable feat of securing an All India Rank of 315 in the prestigious UPSC 2019 Civil Services Exam, earning him a coveted Indian Administrative Service position. His journey stands as a testament to the unwavering conviction that dreams can be realized, transcending limitations of background and circumstances.
Overcoming Financial Challenges
Hailing from a family of modest means, where his father worked as an auto driver and his mother as a homemaker, Azharuddin faced significant financial challenges. Despite these obstacles, he clung steadfastly to his aspiration of pursuing the UPSC exam, a path that seemed like a distant fantasy in his hometown.
Educational Pursuits and Early Career
After completing his 12th grade education, Azharuddin enrolled at Karwari College of Commerce at Pune University, a renowned institution known as the “Oxford of the East.” However, due to financial constraints, he returned home after his first year and completed the remaining two years of his undergraduate studies while concurrently working at a private insurance company.
Inspiration and Initial Attempts
Upon graduation, Azharuddin recognized the need for a stable career to provide for his family. Seeking guidance from his professor, Uday Navalekar, he was encouraged to explore government jobs, notably the UPSC exam. Despite acknowledging the exam’s formidable difficulty, Azharuddin resolved to pursue his dream. A formative encounter with an IPS officer during a felicitation ceremony in 2006 sparked within him a profound desire to serve his country, igniting a passion to contribute to the nation’s welfare.
Hamdard Study Circle and Initial Struggles
Through extensive research, Azharuddin discovered the Hamdard Study Circle, an organization in Delhi that provided support and sponsorship to minority and SC/ST candidates aspiring to prepare for UPSC. He submitted an application and ventured to Delhi with meager financial resources, unsure if he would be accepted. Fortuitously, after a rigorous written test, group discussion, and personal interview, Azharuddin was selected. He entered the Hamdard Study Circle in 2010 and embarked on his first attempt at the UPSC exam that same year. Unfortunately, he did not qualify. Undeterred, he persisted with a second attempt in 2011, but met with the same outcome.
Taking a Break and Gaining Work Experience
As the years passed, financial pressures mounted, and Azharuddin made the difficult decision to take a break from UPSC preparation and seek employment that could sustain his family. He successfully passed the IBPS exam in 2012 and obtained a position as a Bank PO at Corporation Bank. For nearly seven years, Azharuddin diligently fulfilled his responsibilities at the bank, eventually ascending to the role of branch manager. Nevertheless, his aspiration to become an IAS officer never diminished. He knew he had to return to his pursuit.
Returning to UPSC Preparation
The decision to resign from his stable job and prepare for UPSC once more was met with trepidation and skepticism from his family and friends. They expressed concerns about the precarious nature of success and the benefits he would be surrendering. Undeterred, Azharuddin recalled a quote by Javed Akhtar Sahab: “Why fear life? If nothing happens, it will be an experience.” He believed that even if he did not achieve his UPSC goal, he would eternally regret not giving it his all. If you are interested in UPSC coaching then take off in your journey with Drishti IAS.
The Final Attempts and Ultimate Success
In 2018, Azharuddin returned to Delhi and made his third attempt at the exam. He successfully cleared the Prelims but narrowly missed the Mains cutoff by a mere 21 marks. While some might have been discouraged, Azharuddin interpreted this outcome as a beacon of hope. He had come so close and simply needed to enhance his efforts. In 2019, Azharuddin judiciously applied the lessons learned from the previous year, focusing on bolstering his strengths and mitigating his weaknesses. His unwavering dedication was rewarded with an All India Rank of 315, fulfilling the long-held dream of securing a coveted Indian Administrative Service position.
Conclusion: A Story of Unwavering Determination
Azharuddin’s journey to UPSC success was not without its challenges. It demanded relentless determination, assiduous effort, and unwavering faith in his abilities. He credits the unwavering support of his family, friends, and mentors for sustaining him throughout this arduous endeavor. Azharuddin’s story serves as a profound reminder that regardless of the magnitude or obscurity of our dreams, they should never be relinquished. Even when life’s circumstances lead us down divergent paths, we must remain receptive to opportunities that align with our aspirations, for in the unwavering pursuit of our dreams lies the potential for remarkable achievements.
