
A Class 12 student at Equitas Gurukulam Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Prithvi is not just a student; he is a dynamic force of ambition, discipline, and multifaceted talent, charting a remarkable path from a modest background to the ambitious goal of becoming a neurosurgeon. In a world that often asks young minds to specialize, Prithvi Raj stands as a powerful testament to the potential of holistic excellence.
Hailing from an average middle-class family, where his father is a labour in a building construction company and his mother a homemaker, Prithvi learned the values of hard work and responsibility early. He seamlessly balances his academic pursuits with helping in household chores and guiding his younger sister, who also aspires to medicine. This journey, however, faced a critical juncture. After his first year of higher secondary school, the pressure of managing academics and finances almost led him to drop out. It was the timely intervention and personal counselling from a mentor that helped him see a path forward.
Ms. Suryaprabha, who has served as a dedicated Field Organizer at Shanti Ashram for the past six years, identified Mr. Prithvi Raj from Sentamil Nagar during one of her routine community visits. At the time, Prithvi Raj was a young learner driven by a deep ambition to continue his studies, yet his educational journey stood at a crossroads due to severe financial constraints. Recognizing both his potential and his determination, Ms. Suryaprabha ensured that his situation was brought to the attention of the Ashram’s support programmes, marking the beginning of a transformative intervention in his life.
Crucial to this journey has been his identity as a Bala Shanti-MESPL Joint Scholarship awardee. This support did more than just ease the financial burden on his family; it opened the door to a transformative ecosystem of guidance. The scholarship’s holistic follow-up sessions became his anchor. Career guidance sessions gave him hope and a clear roadmap for his goal to become a neurosurgeon. Art therapy provided a vital outlet for mental well-being, while academic and financial counselling at Shanti Ashram instilled in him a profound sense of hope and trust.
His dedication to this support system was so strong that when his school initially restricted his participation in Shanti Ashram programmes for special classes, dedicated advocacy made the difference. Through personal meetings and a roundtable discussion with the principal at the Ashram, the immense positive impact of these sessions was successfully communicated, securing him the permission he needed.
Drawing motivation from the discipline of football legend Cristiano Ronaldo, Prithvi embodies a similar relentless work ethic. He is a true all-rounder—a state-level badminton player, a School Pupil Leader, and a budding photographer with a certified course in ecology from IIT Madras.
Prithvi Raj’s story is more than just one of personal brilliance; it is a powerful case study of how potential, when met with the right support, mentorship, and unwavering belief, can overcome any obstacle. He is not just preparing for a career; he is being nurtured to become a compassionate healer and a future leader, his journey illuminated by the community that believes in him.
A Class 12 student at Equitas Gurukulam Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Prithvi is not just a student;
Aakash Ramankutty,
Research Scholar, Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad
Photo credits:


PSG Institute of Medical Sciences and Research

Masonic Medical Center for Children

Avinashilingam University for Women

Haute Ecole de la Sante La Source (HEdS La Source)

Rotary

Eine Welt Laden

