In the midst of a life-changing medical emergency, 18-year-old Ritika Barat of Ryan International School, Kandivali, Mumbai, has proved to be a beacon of strength and grit. Even after being diagnosed with an ovarian tumour only a few days prior to her Class X board exams in 2023, Ritika never let setbacks define her life. Now, two years down the line, she has achieved a remarkable 97.6% in her CBSE Class XII board exams and is resolutely gearing up to write JEE Advanced 2025 so that she can study at an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT).

Ritika’s is a story of resilience, courage, and single-minded determination. Hailing from Kolkata, Ritika shifted to Mumbai in Class VI when her father was transferred there. Her father is a financial trainer, and her mother is a doctor—two pillars of strength who were instrumental in her recovery and academic success. Ritika was in Class X when her life was turned upside down. A sudden and severe medical diagnosis of an ovarian tumour meant that she had to undergo immediate surgery, just as her board exams were looming on the horizon. Even then, Ritika showed great strength of character. Struggling against physical agony and mental anguish, she turned up for her examinations and achieved a respectable 92.8%.

Ever since she was diagnosed, Ritika has been on uninterrupted medication, undergoing treatment that is physically exhausting and emotionally draining. But she has never let her medical condition become an obstacle in the way of her aspirations. Having a clear goal to become an engineer and study at one of India’s best IITs, Ritika studied hard, keeping in mind her health constraints. She finished Class XII with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, subjects that call for regular work and thorough concept clarity. However, her conditions did not leave her the scope of long hours of study and coaching classes.

“I was unable to study for long periods of time because of my condition,” says Ritika. “But I made sure that whatever study I did do, I did it right. I was concentrated and attempted to optimize those short but potent learning sessions.” Unlike most of her classmates, Ritika did not pursue any professional coaching sessions for JEE. She totally depended on self-preparation, aided by online study materials, practice tests, and test series provided by various learning websites. Her strict regimen bore fruit when she cleared the JEE Mains in her stride, bringing herself one step closer to making her IIT dream come true.

Ritika’s success is not merely academic achievement—it is the victory of determination over hardship. Although she concedes that there were times when she was overcome and wanted to quit, the unflinching support of her parents and teachers provided the strength she needed to persevere. “There were times when the mental and physical suffering tempted me to quit,” she says. “But my parents did not let me down. Their faith in me and the continuous encouragement gave me the motivation to continue.”. My teachers also greatly motivated me, particularly when I was low.” 

Her tale is not one of academic brilliance but one of a frame of mind based on grit. Ritika is of the opinion that consistence, belief in oneself, and appropriate methodology are key—particularly for students who choose to self-study. She urges other JEE aspirants as well as students who may encounter personal issues to remain steadfast and have faith in the process. “Having the right attitude and a good support system can make all the difference,” she says. “Even if you’re experiencing a challenging moment, have faith that you can get through it. I’ve discovered that obstacles, even health setbacks, can be overcome with the right approach and faith in yourself.”

And now, with JEE Advanced looming on the horizon, Ritika goes on with her preparation with unobtrusive determination. Even under medication, she takes care of her time, concentrating on problem-solving, mock tests, and revision. Her aspiration to go to an IIT is not merely a matter of finding a place in a top-tier institution—it is a question of believing that courage lies not in never falling, but in getting up every time you fall.

In a time and space where competition is cutthroat and pressure immense, Ritika’s tale is a beacon of hope and resilience. It serves as a reminder that there is a tale behind each percentage and rank, often a silent struggle. Ritika’s victory is not just a victory for the individual but a source of inspiration for countless students who are quietly battling their own demons.