Guys, discover the inspiring UPSC success story of Varun Baranwal, who overcame poverty and family hardships by repairing bicycles in Boisar, Maharashtra, after his father's death. Topping Class 10, he pursued engineering on scholarships, quit a high-paying MNC job, and cracked the UPSC Civil Services Exam on his first attempt in 2016, securing All India Rank (AIR) 32 to become an IAS officer. This motivational journey highlights grit, sacrifice, self-study without coaching, and the power of perseverance for aspiring civil servants and UPSC toppers. Learn key lessons from his rags-to-riches tale of triumph against all odds.
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Introduction: A Journey Forged in Grit
In a country where lakhs of aspirants dream of cracking the UPSC Civil Services Examination, few stories resonate as deeply as that of Varun Baranwal, a young boy from Boisar, Maharashtra, who transformed his life from repairing bicycle punctures to becoming an IAS officer with All India Rank 32. His journey is not just about academic excellence—it's a testament to resilience, sacrifice, and the power of a mother’s unwavering belief.
Humble Beginnings: Life at the Puncture Shop
Born in Boisar, a small town in Maharashtra, Varun’s early life revolved around his father’s modest bicycle repair shop. The family lived hand-to-mouth, sustained by the daily earnings from fixing punctures. In 2006, tragedy struck when Varun’s father passed away, leaving behind not just emotional grief but a crushing financial burden.
At just 16, Varun was expected to abandon his studies and take over the shop. For a brief moment, he did. But fate had other plans.
Academic Spark: Topping Class 10 Against All Odds
Despite the chaos, Varun had appeared for his Class 10 exams—and the results were nothing short of miraculous. He topped his school, securing second place in the city. His joy was short-lived, however, as the question loomed: “What now?”
His mother, who had never repaired a cycle before, stepped in with quiet determination:
“You study, I’ll run the shop.”
She took over the puncture business, saving every rupee to fund Varun’s education. Her grit became the foundation of his dreams.
Community Support: Angels in Disguise
Varun’s journey was lifted by the kindness of strangers and mentors. A family doctor, Dr. Kampli, paid his initial college fees. Teachers pooled money for his books. Friends offered emotional support. Varun never spent a single rupee on his education—every step was sponsored by someone who believed in him.
Engineering Over Medicine: A Strategic Pivot
Though Varun initially aspired to become a doctor, the high fees of medical college forced him to pivot. He enrolled in MIT College, Pune, for engineering. To fund his studies, he tutored students and continued repairing bicycles in the evenings. His hard work paid off—he topped his first semester and earned a scholarship.
Corporate Job vs. Civil Services: Choosing Purpose Over Pay
After graduation, Varun landed a job at a multinational company. His family urged him to settle into corporate life. But Varun had a bigger dream: to serve the nation as an IAS officer.
With no money for coaching, he approached an institute and made a bold promise:
“Teach me for free. I’ll crack UPSC in my first attempt.”
And he did.
UPSC Triumph: AIR 32 and a New Chapter
In 2016, Varun Baranwal cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination with an All India Rank of 32. His achievement was not just personal—it was symbolic. From a puncture shop to the corridors of power, Varun’s journey became a beacon for every aspirant battling adversity.
Lessons from Varun’s Journey
Resilience beats circumstance: Poverty didn’t define Varun—it refined him.
Support systems matter: Teachers, doctors, and friends played crucial roles.
Purpose fuels perseverance: His desire to serve the nation kept him going.
Family is the backbone: His mother’s sacrifice was the cornerstone of his success.
