When dreams are backed by unwavering determination, no obstacle is big enough to block the path to success.
Nisa Unnirajan’s inspiring journey to cracking the UPSC Civil Services Examination is a shining example of courage, resilience, and perseverance.
At 40, when most people believe the time for chasing dreams is long gone, Nisa proved that there is no expiry date on ambition. A mother to two young daughters, Nandna (11) and Thaanvi (7), and living with a 40% hearing impairment, Nisa’s life was already full of responsibilities and challenges. Yet, she dared to dream big — and more importantly, she dared to chase that dream without giving up.
Starting Late, Dreaming Big
Nisa began her UPSC preparation at the age of 35 — an age where most aspirants either have already cleared the exam or moved on to other career paths. But for Nisa, it was the beginning of a new battle. Balancing motherhood, household duties, personal struggles, and a demanding study schedule was no easy task. Every day, she fought not just the competition but her own doubts, fears, and exhaustion.
Despite multiple failures, Nisa never allowed frustration to take over. Each failed attempt became a stepping stone, pushing her to work harder, study smarter, and stay focused on her goal. It took her seven long, emotionally draining attempts before she finally cleared the prestigious exam in 2024, securing an All India Rank (AIR) of 1000.
A Family That Stood Like a Rock
Behind Nisa’s extraordinary achievement stood an unwavering support system. Her husband Arun and her elderly parents, both retired police officers, became her biggest cheerleaders. They took over household duties, supported her during the darkest days of doubt, and reminded her every day that her dream was worth fighting for.
Her daughters too, though young, showed remarkable maturity and understanding, giving their mother the space and time to chase her dreams.
Inspiration That Ignited a Fire
One major source of inspiration for Nisa was Ranjit, a Deputy Collector from Kottayam, who also battled hearing impairment and succeeded. Seeing someone overcome similar challenges and achieve great heights ignited a fresh wave of determination in Nisa. She realized that disabilities, age, or failures could delay success, but they could never deny it.
Preparation with Purpose
Nisa joined a coaching center in Thiruvananthapuram for professional guidance. But more than notes and lectures, it was her mindset that shaped her success. She turned failures into lessons and pain into power. She didn’t measure her progress by the number of attempts but by the lessons she learned along the way.
Her story sends a strong message to every UPSC aspirant and every dreamer battling against the odds:
Failures are not roadblocks; they are milestones that lead you closer to your goal.
The Legacy of Hope
Today, Nisa stands as a beacon of hope for all who feel limited by their circumstances. Her journey tells us that:
Age is just a number.
Disability is just a condition.
Motherhood is not a barrier — it is a badge of strength.
And dreams, no matter how delayed, are never out of reach.
Nisa Unnirajan’s name will be remembered not just for cracking one of India’s toughest exams but for teaching an entire generation that success belongs to those who refuse to give up.
