Real Story of a Shy Boy Who Became a Daring Army Officer
Presenting: Lt Mohanraj Ashwath (Arty)
This is the inspiring journey of a boy from a small village in Tamil Nadu who transformed from a timid student into a proud officer in the Indian Army.
đź“– Early Life
Mohanraj began his schooling in a village until Class III. When his parents moved to Coimbatore in search of better opportunities, he too shifted schools. His parents worked as caretakers in a ladies’ hostel, and the boy grew up surrounded by college students and working professionals. With no outdoor games, hobbies, or structured activities, his childhood was quiet and sheltered.
By Class X, fate intervened. He did not write a single word in his public exam. But being part of the COVID batch, he was promoted—and astonishingly, his marksheet showed 100% in all subjects!
Class XII was tougher. With online classes and disrupted learning, his score dropped to around 60%. Later, he joined a Tier-III engineering college with just 45% in PCM. No NCC, no sports, no extracurriculars—his college life was uneventful.
🔥 The Spark of Inspiration
His cousin, educated at a Sainik School, cleared NDA and became an officer in the Artillery. Watching him at the Passing Out Parade lit a fire in Mohanraj’s heart. He wanted to follow in his footsteps.
But reality was harsh. He attempted the NDA written exam twice and failed both times. Two years after graduation, he had no job—only one burning desire: to wear the olive green uniform.
The Turning Point – Colonel & Commander Defence Academy
Mohanraj joined Colonel & Commander Defence Academy, led by an alumnus of Sainik School and trained by a tough Infantry Commando. His routine was grueling:
4 AM – 6 AM written test coaching
5 km walk & run daily
UNACADEMY news analysis every morning and CCD Academy regular updates about armed forces
20 English words with synonyms, antonyms, and usage
50 maths problems daily
The Commando literally sculpted him into a soldier.
đź’ˇ Confidence Building Test
When Mohanraj skipped his first SSB out of fear, the Academy introduced a unique exercise: Confidence Building Test.
Task 1: Earn â‚ą100 in 4 hours at a mall.
No begging, borrowing, menial labor, lies, or illegal means.
Day 1: Failed.
Day 2: He used a puzzle challenge—“Solve in under 1 minute, win ₹100. Fail, pay ₹10.”
Crowds gathered. He earned â‚ą240 in 4 hours. His shyness melted away.
Task 2: Approach a college, deliver a motivational talk on Defence careers, and get paid. He prepared slides, sought retired officers, and delivered sessions. Soon, his PIQ read:
Acting Driver (for pocket money)
Motivational Speaker
Soft Skills Trainer
Sainik School Entrance Coach
🏆 Triumphs
Cleared Coast Guard Written Test
Qualified Pre-Selection Board
Cleared CDS & AFCAT, awaiting SSB
Recommended at FSB (only 3 out of 48 succeeded)
Cleared Army Tech Entry SSB
Finally, he joined the Naval Academy as Assistant Commandant. But destiny had other plans. His merit list for Army Tech Entry OTA Gaya placed him at No. 3. Against advice, he resigned from the Naval Academy (paying â‚ą2 lakhs) and joined OTA Gaya.
🎖️ The Officer Emerges
Nine months of relentless ragda (hard training). On 6th September 2025, the shy boy from Tamil Nadu stood tall as Lieutenant Mohanraj Ashwath (Artillery).
Hard to believe? Yet it’s true. His journey proves that with determination, discipline, and the right guidance, even the shyest boy can become a daring officer.
This is not an article – Its a life lesson for aspirants.
