Rashmi Rekha Das

Raised in a slum, Rubirani Swain became the state topper in recently declared Council of Higher Secondary Education (CHSE) Plus 2 Arts results. Hard work paid off for Rubirani who used to study for 12-13 hours a day to pass the examination with flying colours.  

Rubirani, a student of Biju Patnaik College in the smart city of Bhubaneswar, has literally proved the adage ‘Hard work is the key to success’.  Hailing from Nilakantha Nagar Mundasahi slum, Rubirani has secured 86.5 per cent in the exams. While she is happy with the results, she has expected to get 90 per cent mark in the exams. Rubirani attributed her success to her father who is a betel shopkeeper. 
In a candid conversation with OTV, Rubirani spoke about her ambition, aspirations and inspiration.

About her future plans, Rubirani said, “I would like to pursue MBA and then launch my own start-up.  I am highly inspired by my father. My father’s every word is inspiring. He has started from zero. His words motivate me to do something big for the society and make him feel proud. Though I do not belong to a well-to-do family, my father has never made me left wanting.”

“Do you feel embarrassed for being brought up in a slum?” To this question, the topper responded, “Not at all. I would like to be what I am. I don’t like to pretend what I am not. Besides, my focus is to set an example for others by doing good for others.”

Speaking about the reactions of her family after the announcement of results, Rubirani said, “My sister’s happiness knew no bounds when she heard it. My college teachers are also very happy with my results. I got a call from our principal sir yesterday. One of my teachers had come to my place to congratulate me.”

She did not forget to thank the management of Biju Patnaik College which has never found its name in the list of top colleges of the state. She said, “Quality education is being imparted in every college. But students have to understand the fact that any student can get to the zenith of success through their strong willpower and hard work. Students have to give their best irrespective of colleges.”

Her father said, “I came to know about the results at 5pm yesterday. I was over the moon to know that she has topped in the state. My hard work has paid off because of her. In true sense, she has made me proud.”

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