Not every day does someone trade a high-paying job at a global tech giant for a chance to serve the nation. But for Rahul Kumar Lodha, the decision to leave IBM and prepare for the UPSC Civil Services Exam wasn’t just about career change — it was about purpose, grit, and the belief that real change happens from within the system.
A Life-Changing Challenge
In 2010, Rahul was working at IBM and enjoying the life many engineers dream of. But during a casual conversation, a friend challenged him: “Stop criticizing the system from the outside. If you want to change it, join it.” That one sentence shook Rahul. Within weeks, he resigned and moved to Delhi with little more than determination and a backpack.
Living on Faith, Studying on Grit
Rahul had no coaching, no mentors, and no family connections in the city. His first nights were spent at a Gurudwara in Chandni Chowk, followed by Dharamshalas. Unable to afford tuition fees, he stood outside coaching institutes, speaking to students, and writing down their book recommendations. He created his own study plan from scratch — powered entirely by self-discipline.
Love and UPSC Dreams
During his preparation, Rahul met Shubhi, a fellow UPSC aspirant from Jodhpur. They became study partners, sharing notes, long conversations, and the struggles of civil service preparation. By his third attempt, Rahul gathered the courage to propose over the phone. She said yes, and their families blessed the union even before the results were announced.
The Moment of Triumph
In 2011, Rahul cleared the UPSC and was selected for the Indian Police Service (IPS). The person who first broke the news to him? Shubhi — his partner, who had been with him through every hurdle. Today, Rahul Kumar Lodha serves as Superintendent of Police in Bhopal, embodying the values of service, resilience, and humility.
A Story of Grit, Love, and Service
Rahul Lodha’s journey — from sleeping in Gurudwaras to becoming an IPS officer — proves that courage, resourcefulness, and belief in oneself can defy the odds. His life is a reminder to every aspirant that the road to success may be long and lonely, but the destination is worth it.
