From Kedarnath Yatra to IIT Madras: Uttarakhand boy Atul Kumar’s inspiring journey

Atul Kumar, a youth from Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand, who once ferried pilgrims on horses and mules to Kedarnath Dham, has cleared IIT-JAM 2025 and secured admission to IIT Madras for an MSc in Mathematics.

Speaking to ANI, Atul shared his humble beginnings and challenges. “I am from a small village in Rudraprayag. Till my 12th standard, I didn’t know much. In hilly areas, awareness is low. I didn’t even know about IITs back then and didn’t attempt any entrance exams after school,” he recalled.

To support his family, Atul worked during the Kedarnath yatra, transporting devotees from Gaurikund on horseback. But his aspirations didn’t stop there. Encouraged by teachers and friends, he learned about opportunities for higher education at IITs. “My teachers and friends motivated me a lot. I started my preparation in July last year because in June I was busy with the Kedarnath yatra,” he said.

#WATCH | Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand | Atul Kumar, who used to carry pilgrims to Kedarnath Dham on a horse or mule, cleared the IIT-JAM 2025 and has been selected for IIT Madras to the MSc Mathematics programme.

Speaking to ANI, he says, "I am from a small village in… pic.twitter.com/PgewIf9rSE

— ANI (@ANI) July 17, 2025

Atul’s determination to change his life bore fruit when he cracked the highly competitive exam in his first attempt. “My motivation was to move on from this place, this line of work,” he added.

His achievement has brought immense pride to his village. “People are delighted I cracked the exam. Many have called to congratulate me,” said a beaming Atul, now ready to begin a new chapter at IIT Madras.