JEE Advanced 2025: Focussed self-study, not coaching, made Devdutta Majhi the top-ranked girl in India
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She is among five candidates from the IIT Kharagpur zone who made it to the top 100.
A student of Katwa Durgadasi Chaudhurani Girls' High School,
's achievement adds yet another feather to her already stellar academic journey. Speaking to
The Times of India
, she described her success as the outcome of two years of unwavering self-discipline and focussed self-study.
Unlike many aspirants who rely on coaching hubs, Devdutta carved her own path.
She studied independently, took online classes to clear doubts, and regularly appeared for mock tests — all from the confines of her home. Her routine after Madhyamik 2023 became one of intense dedication—clocking in at least 10 hours of study every day.
'I had set my goal to crack JEE Advanced to pursue my dreams. I distanced myself from all programmes, family gatherings, and other distractions to focus solely on my studies,' Devdutta shared.
'Coaching centres can't do everything. Cracking exams like JEE Mains and Advanced requires a systematic study plan and daily practice for at least two years. Nothing works better than self-study,' she added.
What made this journey more personal was what she gave up along the way. 'I stopped playing the violin, which used to be my favourite pastime. I only picked it up again after the exam. For two years, the only recreation I allowed myself was chatting with my mother about my preparation,' she recalled with a smile.
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Her mother, Shelly Dan, a physics teacher at the same school, stood by her through every step of this intense journey.
We've been waiting for this day for two years. We both sacrificed everything for this moment, and I'm so proud she achieved what she dreamed of,' she said emotionally.
Devdutta's father, a physics professor, stays in Asansol and has also been a strong pillar of support.
Now, Devdutta plans to join IISc Bangalore to pursue a career in artificial intelligence and robotics, with a keen interest in research.
In the JEE Advanced 2025, held on 18 May, a total of 1.8 lakh candidates appeared for both Papers 1 and 2. Out of these, 54,378 qualified, including 9,404 female candidates.
Apart from Devdutta, four other candidates from the IIT Kharagpur zone made it to the top 100: Hans Daruka (Rank 39), Aritro Ray (Rank 50), Sanyajyoti Biswas (Rank 63), and Nabaneet Priyadarshi (Rank 97).
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