Overcoming Adversity
For the past two years, Sarfaraz worked tirelessly as a daily wage laborer, lifting between 200 to 400 bricks each day from 6 AM to 2 PM to support his family. Living in a modest home built under the PM Awas Yojana, he faced numerous challenges, including financial hardship and societal ridicule. Despite these obstacles, Sarfaraz remained steadfast in his ambition to become a doctor. His mother played a crucial role in his education, often staying awake at night to ensure he could study without succumbing to the cold in their roofless home.
Academic Journey
Initially aspiring to join the National Defence Academy (NDA) after completing his 10th grade, Sarfaraz’s plans were disrupted by financial constraints and an accident that prevented him from attending an important interview. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, he received government assistance to purchase a smartphone, which became essential for his studies. He turned to YouTube for educational resources, particularly benefiting from videos by Alakh Pandey, founder of Physics Wallah. Despite facing setbacks—including dropping out of a dental college due to financial issues—Sarfaraz persevered and reattempted NEET in 2024.
Community Support and Recognition
Sarfaraz’s story gained widespread recognition when Alakh Pandey visited him at home and shared his journey on social media. Moved by Sarfaraz’s resilience, Pandey gifted him a new smartphone and pledged Rs 5 lakh to cover his college fees, emphasizing that this support should be repaid by helping others in need in the future. This act of kindness has made Sarfaraz a role model in his community, where he now mentors younger students, encouraging them to pursue their dreams despite challenges.
Conclusion
Sarfaraz’s incredible journey from a daily wage laborer to securing admission at Nil Ratan Sircar Medical College in Kolkata is a testament to the transformative power of education and the impact of community support. His story continues to inspire many across India, proving that with perseverance and determination, no dream is too distant to achieve.
