Strength In Struggles: Battling Ovarian Tumour, Kandivali CBSE Class 12 Topper Scores 97.6%, Clears JEE Mains

Ritika Barat, a student of Ryan International School, Kandivali, who has been diagnosed with an ovarian tumour, scored 97.6% in the CBSE class 12 (science stream) exam. Adding feather to her cap, she even cleared the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Mains, inching closer to her dream of being an engineer.

A former city topper in the class 10 exams with 99.2%, Barat rejoiced, “My inspiration came from my deep love for learning and my goal to become an engineer. Focus and interest in subjects like physics kept me going.” Fondly speaking about her favourite subject, she said, “Physics answers the ‘why’ behind everything around us. The logic and elegance of its concepts truly fascinated me.”

Speaking about how she handled her medical issues, she said it's all about discipline and balance. “I followed a flexible routine that allowed time for studies, rest and recovery. I made sure to stay consistent without overwhelming myself and I always listened to what my body and mind needed,” Barat said.

Sharing her way of dealing with “difficult days”, she said, “I focussed on lighter tasks like revision or video lessons. I avoided overexertion, which actually helped me absorb concepts better.” Barat summed up, saying, “My family’s support, encouragement from teachers and my belief that every small effort counts helped me push through.”

Lastly, her advice for students is never give up, take care of your health first because “it’s the foundation for everything”.