Viral Success Story: The story of Mousam Kumari has captivated India, her inspiring journey from tragedy to triumph winning universal acclaim all over social media. Losing her father at six months and her mother re-marrying when she was three years old, Mousam was raised by her grandmother and uncle. Despite these early losses, she vowed in class 10, “IIT jaungi aur Daadi ko duniya dikhaungi” — a promise she courageously fulfilled.
"I was just 6 months old when we lost Papa. Then, when I was 3, Maa remarried. So, Daadi raised me. She & Chacha were my strongest support, so, I doubled my efforts for them. And in the 10th grade, I decided – IIT jaungi & Dadi ko duniya dikhaungi…They were so proud. But life rarely goes according to plan, Mousam Kumari said as per the Humans of Bombay report.
Her determination was tested a second time subsequently: her grandmother passed away halfway through her aspiration, and during the COVID-19 era, Mousam endured uncertain living arrangements, power cuts, and disrupted studies from the home of one relative to another. Undeterred, she cracked the JEE and secured entry into IIT Guwahati. Presented with a second challenge—tuition fees—she heard about the Kotak Kanya Scholarship on WhatsApp and was granted full sponsorship, enabling her to move into boarding, studies, and even career guidance workshops.
"One day, when Chacha’s friend came to pick me up from school, I found out that Daadi had passed away. I was devastated. But as I wept, I remembered Daadi’s dreams. Mujhe aur kuch dikha hi nahi – I topped my 10th exams. Afterwards, I began my preparation for the IIT entrance. But COVID hit. Classes moved online, & everyone returned home," she continued.
Mousam is currently in her third year at IIT Guwahati. On LinkedIn, she describes herself as a "Final yearite @ IITG" and was previously an SDE intern with NullClass—emphasising her software skills and dedication.
Netizens remain agog at her tale. Peers at Navodaya describe her as an "unstoppable talent," while others praise her guts and determination, inspiring millions battling.
Mousam's tale exemplifies abiding hope, converting individual tragedy into academic success and professional potential—indeed a hope for India's youth.
