Selection Stories
There isn’t really a “selection story” this time, because Dr. Aprajita had already been part of a conversation with us earlier about yoga. Since then, she has achieved countless milestones—so many that they can’t even be counted. But I didn’t invite her again just because of her impressive success story; I wanted to talk to her again because, despite everything she has accomplished, she has remained humble and grounded.
From receiving an invitation from the Prime Minister of India to visiting Russia as part of the Gaganyaan-5 mission and much more—her achievements are truly remarkable. Yet, what stands out most is her humility.
When I reached out to her with my questions for this conversation, I specifically told her there was no rush, knowing how busy her life is. I kept my request brief, but within just a few hours, she sent detailed, thoughtful answers.
When you set aside all her achievements, it’s her character that truly defines her—and that’s what I wanted to share.
Last time, our conversation focused more on yoga. Since then, so much has changed in her life, and I hope this new conversation captures that journey. I’m genuinely excited to share this with you all. Let’s dive into an inspiring conversation I’ve been eagerly looking forward to!
1. How are you handling success so far? Has anything changed around you or within you?
Dr. Aprajita: Success hasn’t changed me; it’s just expanded my responsibility. What has truly shifted is my mindset — I now think beyond myself. People have changed — some with love, some with envy — but I stay centered. Success didn’t make me proud; it made me more conscious.
2. For those who dream of becoming an IAS or IPS officer at a young age, what advice would you give them today?
Dr. Aprajita: If your dream is strong enough, distractions won’t stand a chance. My advice? “Uniform sirf tab pehno jab uske peeche discipline ka load utha sako.” Work in silence. Let your name make the noise. Start early, stay consistent, and never underestimate the power of daily effort.
3. What would you like to say to those who feel low or anxious after comparing their lives to your success?
Dr. Aprajita: I say this with love — stop scrolling through people’s highlights and judging your life’s worth. Behind every award I’ve received are sleepless nights, breakdowns, and sacrifices. “Success Instagram pe dikhne se nahi, andar se banne se aati hai.” Your time will come — but only if you look within, not around.
4. What would you like to say to those who might feel jealous or insecure when they see your success?
Dr. Aprajita: Jealousy doesn’t burn the one it’s aimed at — it only dims your own fire. Instead of competing with me, compete with your yesterday. I didn’t get here by chance; I built it, brick by brick, while many just watched. Now it’s your turn. Build — don’t belittle.
5. How’s life going right now? What’s different from before?
Dr. Aprajita: Life right now feels like a mission. Earlier, I was chasing opportunities; now, I’m creating them. What’s different is the weight — not of pressure, but of purpose. Every step I take now echoes wider, and I walk carefully, knowing others are following.
6. You’ve remained grounded even after your success — texting back, returning calls, making time for people. How do you manage that?
Dr. Aprajita: Because I haven’t forgotten how it feels to be ignored. Staying grounded isn’t a trick — it’s who I am. I believe, “The higher you rise, the deeper your roots must be.” Success loses meaning if you can’t carry people with you.
7. What’s one habit you consider your worst right now? Something you’re still working on.
Dr. Aprajita: Taking on too much. I still struggle to say no. I want to help everyone, be everywhere. But I’m learning — saying yes to everything is saying no to yourself. So I’m working on setting boundaries without guilt.
8. Does this success ever come with a fear of loneliness? Do you ever feel that in quiet moments?
Dr. Aprajita: Yes, sometimes silence speaks louder than applause. “Jitna upar jaate ho, utni khamoshi milti hai.” But in that silence, I find my strength. It’s where I ask myself the hard questions and remind myself of the reason I started.
9. What usually goes on in your mind before you sleep?
Dr. Aprajita: Did I live with purpose today? Did I impact someone positively? That’s what I reflect on before I sleep. I don’t count followers or fame — I count how many lives I touched. And if the number is even one, I rest in peace.
10. Is there anything you’d like to say about your experience with Abhirah.com?
Dr. Aprajita: Abhirah doesn’t just interview — it understands. It gave me a platform where my voice wasn’t filtered; it was felt. Thank you for allowing honesty and for asking questions that touched the soul, not just the success.
11. According to you, what is life? Has your perspective changed recently?
Dr. Aprajita: Life is not about becoming someone — it’s about becoming something that helps others rise. Earlier, I saw life as a race; now, I see it as a relay, where your part matters, but so does passing the baton with grace. Life is short, but impact is timeless.
12. What does being a successful person mean to you, personally?
Dr. Aprajita: It means living in such a way that even if your name is erased, your work still speaks. Success isn’t about sitting at the top; it’s about lifting others while you climb. Real success is when people don’t remember what you wore, but how you made them feel.
13. Do you ever worry that success might bring ego along with it? How do you stay self-aware?
Dr. Aprajita: Ego is always waiting — quietly, cleverly. But I check myself often. I ask, “If everything was taken away tomorrow, would I still know who I am?” And the answer must always be yes. That’s how I stay grounded — not in people’s praise, but in my own awareness.
14. What was going through your mind when you realized you’d be representing the country?
Dr. Aprajita: Silence. Then goosebumps. Then tears. And just one thought: “This isn’t just about me. This is for every small-town girl who was told to dream smaller.” That moment wasn’t pride; it was purpose in its purest form.
———–Thank You———