In his post, Virulkar laid bare the harsh realities of his pursuit, stating, “12 attempts.7 mains. 5 interviews. NO SELECTION.” This raw honesty struck a chord with millions, garnering over 3 million views and an outpouring of support.
Community Support: Encouragement Amidst Disappointment
The comments section overflowed with messages of encouragement and empathy. One user wrote, “Wanted to see your name, sir. Maybe life has kept big things ahead,” expressing a sentiment echoed by many – that Virulkar’s dedication would ultimately be rewarded. Another lauded his perseverance, stating, “This is heartbreaking, but I must say, What a journey, man! What a character!” These responses highlight the immense challenges aspirants face on the path to cracking the UPSC, widely considered one of India’s most competitive exams.
Recognition from Established Figures: A Beacon of Hope
Support came not only from fellow aspirants but also from established figures like IAS officer Manuj Jindal, currently serving as Joint MD, MSRDC. Recognizing Virulkar’s resilience, Jindal offered not just encouragement but also concrete help, stating, “Bhai, I can tell from your resilience, no one can stop you from achieving your goals! Best of luck and please let me know if I can help in anyway!”
Acknowledging the Journey: Words of Solace and Encouragement
Beyond words of encouragement, there were messages acknowledging the disappointment inherent in Virulkar’s experience. Mohammed Faizan Shaikh, writing on X, offered solace, stating, “Very disappointing but sir better luck next time.. The goal is achieved only by those who have strength in their efforts and if they do not achieve their goals then do not be sad, something will be good in this also, have faith in God, your future will be very bright.”
Rani, another user and a former UPSC aspirant herself, echoed this sentiment. Writing on X, she expressed her admiration, stating, “Wanted to see your name Sir. Maybe life has kept big things ahead. Words aren’t enough to describe the struggle & perseverance that you possess. U did it well & we all are proud of you. You won everytime.”
The Power of Perseverance and Community Support
Kunal Virulkar’s story serves as a potent reminder that the pursuit of dreams, especially those as demanding as the UPSC, is often paved with setbacks. Yet, his unwavering resolve and the outpouring of support he received highlight the power of perseverance and the spirit of community that motivates aspirants on this challenging path.