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At age two, 40% of his body was burnt. Bullied by classmates, he never gave up on dreams to be a doctor despite NEET UG 2026 exam cancellation
ET Online | May 15, 2026 6:57 PM CST

Synopsis

Arjun's life took a difficult turn after a severe burn accident at age two. He faced bullying in school but found strength. Inspired by his own experience, he aims to become a plastic surgeon. His dream faced a hurdle with the NEET UG 2026 exam cancellation. Arjun is now preparing again, demonstrating remarkable resilience.

Arjun, the burn survivor, was bullied at school for his scars. (Instagram)
Life gives the hardest battles to the strongest soldiers. And while navigating through these difficulties, these individuals emerge stronger than ever. While setbacks, hardships, and unexpected obstacles can test a person’s strength, true determination lies in refusing to let adversity define one’s future and pose a hindrance to achieving goals. Such is the inspiring story of Arjun, an aspiring plastic surgeon. Arjun, born in Assam, faced a tragedy that changed his life forever, but with his will and determination, he is proving that no challenge is greater than the power of resilience.

Tragedy turns into a story of courage


When Arjun was just 2 years old, he encountered a severe burn accident during Diwali, which left nearly 40 percent of his upper body critically injured, as per Official Humans of Bombay. The incident occurred in his home, where his twin brother’s cries alerted their parents, though precious time had already been lost. Doctors in Assam reportedly gave his family little hope, warning that his injuries were too severe. Refusing to give up, Arjun’s parents made the life-altering decision to sell everything, including their home, to seek advanced treatment in Delhi and give their son a chance to fight.

While Arjun endured multiple surgeries between Delhi and Assam, the most painful experience for him was during his school years. He faced relentless bullying and cruel taunts from classmates, who mocked his appearance and isolated him socially. Arjun’s twin brother, however, remained his constant protector during these unpleasant experiences, standing up for him when others would not.

Dreaming beyond setbacks with determination


Over time, as successive surgeries gradually restored his appearance and confidence, Arjun found a renewed sense of purpose. Inspired by his own journey, he decided to become a plastic surgeon to help burn survivors rebuild their lives just as doctors had helped him. Supported wholeheartedly by his family, Arjun dedicated himself to his studies and worked tirelessly to prepare for NEET UG 2026, viewing it as the gateway to fulfilling his lifelong dream.


The cancellation of the NEET UG 2026 examination due to confirmed paper leak allegations and widespread irregularities came as a heartbreaking setback for Arjun after months of intense preparation. Yet, true to the courage that has defined his life, Arjun refused to let disappointment break his spirit. Instead, he chose to see this obstacle as just another challenge to overcome, vowing to prepare once again with the same unwavering determination that has carried him through every hardship so far.


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