From Physics to Public Service: Don’t miss T Bhuvanesh Ram’s Inspiring Journey of securing All India Rank 41 and thus becoming the state topper of Tamil Nadu.
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on 16th April 2024, Tuesday announced the Civil Services Examination 2023 -24 result.
T. Bhuvanesh Ram, a 27-year-old from Tamil Nadu, has accomplished an impressive achievement by securing the All India Rank 41 in the highly competitive UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) for the year 2023-24.
T Bhuvanesh Ram: The Tamil Nadu Native Who Turned His IAS Dream Into Reality in his 6th Attempt
Originally from Tiruvallur, Bhuvanesh completed his Bachelor of Science in Physics from Sri Sathya Sai Insitute of Higher Learning Bengaluru in 2016.
Right after graduating in Physics, at the age of 21, he decided to pursue his dream of becoming an IAS officer.
Bhuvanesh’s path to success was not an easy one.
In his first 5 attempts, he managed to reach close to his IAS dream, but the final section into IAS was still a whisker away.
However, he secured All India Rank 41 in his 6th attempt ensuring selection into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS).
During the six attempts, he displayed remarkable determination, emotional strength, and an inherent desire to serve society.
His journey serves as an inspiration, showcasing that persistence and passion can overcome even the toughest challenges.
T Bhuvanesh Ram: UPSC CSE 2023-24 All India Rank 41
For Bhuvanesh, the decision to pursue the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) was more than just a childhood dream – it was a calling deeply rooted in the values instilled in him from a young age.
Having studied at the Sri Sathya Sai Insitute of Higher Learning Bengaluru, a system that emphasizes teaching values and overall personal development, Bhuvanesh internalized the importance of service and community involvement.
Moreover, his father’s role in a public sector organization and active participation in community service through the Manidham Foundation further strengthened Bhuvanesh’s desire to positively impact society.
As Bhuvanesh explains, “I thought civil services is the best option because there is nothing else that gives you the same opportunity, diversity, challenges, and potential for growth.“
Overcoming Challenges
Like many aspirants preparing for the UPSC exams, Bhuvanesh faced numerous challenges along his journey, but the psychological aspect proved to be the most difficult.
Financial difficulties, self-doubt, and pressures from society all took a toll on him, testing his resilience and determination to continue.
“The psychological part was the most impactful,” Bhuvanesh admits. “There were lots of close calls, lots of ups and downs.” However, he learned to pace himself and adopt a “marathon” mindset, realizing that consistency and self-control were key to success.
Bhuvanesh’s approach to preparation was grounded in emotional intelligence and self-awareness. Instead of adhering to rigid schedules or grand plans, he focused on maintaining a positive mental state and celebrating his individuality.
“For me, my mental health and loving myself are much more important because if I’m not in a good mental state, I can never be truly productive,” he explains.
Bhuvanesh made sure to incorporate hobbies, exercise, and self-care into his routine, understanding that a balanced lifestyle would fuel his productivity and prevent burnout.
The Role of ClearIAS in Bhuvanesh’s Success
In his journey towards cracking the UPSC CSE, Bhuvanesh found valuable support and guidance from ClearIAS Academy.
In an interview, T Bhuvanesh Ram shared that “Very often when students Google for any topic relevant to the exam preparation, they land on the Clear IAS free study materials section,”
Bhuvanesh extensively used the website’s resources, noting its credibility and comprehensive coverage of various subjects.
Moreover, when he took up a job in Trivandrum after a few attempts, Bhuvanesh sought ClearIAS’s expertise for interview preparation.
“I had a one-on-one session with Alex sir. It was a very fruitful session,” he recalls, appreciating the institute’s comprehensive coverage of his DAF (Detailed Application Form) and personal background during the mock interview.
Thoughts on Mock Tests and Revision
While T Bhuvanesh Ram’s preparation strategy involved a balanced combination of studying textbooks, making personal notes, and analyzing current affairs, he placed particular emphasis on taking mock tests and revising material.
He aimed to attempt at least 50 practice tests before the preliminary exams, recognizing their value not only in assessing his knowledge but also as an effective way to review and reinforce what he had learned.
“Don’t delay taking practice tests,” Bhuvanesh advises. “Start right away, five to six months before the prelims. Join a good test series…Don’t worry if you get low scores at first. But be consistent with taking the tests. Your scores will definitely improve over time.“
Bhuvanesh understood the importance of practising testing early and consistently as part of an effective overall preparation strategy.
Embracing Individuality and Self-Acceptance
One of the most remarkable aspects of Bhuvanesh’s journey is his unwavering commitment to embracing his individuality and accepting his flaws.
Rather than conforming to societal expectations or comparing himself to others, he focused on understanding his strengths, weaknesses, and unique learning style.
“Be consistent. Just start from basics,” he advises beginners. “If you’re not reading the newspaper regularly, start from newspaper reading. Dedicate a specified amount of time for newspaper reading. Then stick to minimum resources.“
Above all, Bhuvanesh encourages aspirants to trust the process, embrace their unique paths, and celebrate the personal growth that accompanies the UPSC preparation experience.
“Even if you don’t clear the exam, you go on to succeed in other parts of life, you will definitely be a well-rounded personality, a very emotionally intelligent personality,” he concludes, his words a testament to the transformative power of this journey.
Article Written By: Priti Raj
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