Ettaboyina Sai Shivani Secures AIR 11 in UPSC, Wins Praise with Insightful Bhagavad Gita Response
Ettaboyina Sai Shivani has emerged as a shining star from the Telugu-speaking states by securing the 11th All India Rank in the UPSC Civil Services Examination, one of the most prestigious and competitive exams in India. Her achievement is not only a matter of personal triumph but also a source of immense pride for Telangana and the larger Telugu community.
What truly captured national attention, however, was her remarkable response during the UPSC personality test, where she was asked a deeply philosophical and spiritual question based on a verse from the Bhagavad Gita.
The board quoted “Sambhavāmi Yuge Yuge” — a promise by Lord Krishna to manifest whenever there is a decline in righteousness — and asked:
“If God promises to appear whenever there is a decline in righteousness, why is God not coming now, when there are so many injustices in society?”
In a calm and composed manner, Shivani responded,
“There is a degree of goodness in every individual within society. When people come forward to help those in need at the right time, they themselves become equivalent to God. God does not need to arrive from somewhere else. Every person who lends a helping hand is as good as God.”
Her answer, blending spiritual depth with social insight, earned her appreciation from the panel and has since gone viral for its wisdom and emotional resonance.
Journey of Determination
Coming from a middle-class background in Khila Warangal, Shivani’s path to success was shaped by perseverance, discipline, and an unrelenting focus on her goal. She cleared the exam in her second attempt, a feat that reflects her dedication and resilience.
She credits her success to three years of consistent preparation, combined with emotional strength and the unwavering support of her family and friends. Shivani also highlighted the importance of stress management, especially during the interview process, as a crucial element in her journey.
Her achievement is not just an individual victory but a beacon of inspiration for aspirants across the country, particularly those from modest backgrounds aiming to make a meaningful impact through public service.
A Role Model in the Making
Ettaboyina Sai Shivani’s success, combined with her thoughtful and humane worldview, positions her as a role model for the next generation of civil servants. Her perspective—that the divine manifests through human compassion and collective conscience—offers a timely reminder of the power of empathy and civic responsibility.
As she steps into the realm of governance, her story continues to inspire countless young minds to dream big, serve selflessly, and strive for a just society.
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