Spandhana I., the daughter of an auto driver, graduated with three gold medals in the Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT) programme at a college affiliated to the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS) this year.

Ms. Spandhana studied at Padmashree Institute of Physiotherapy, Bengaluru. Her father, Indresh M., is an auto driver in the city, while her mother, Girija, is a homemaker.

Born and brought up in Bengaluru, with roots in Mandya district, Ms. Spandhana said she had always hoped to do well in her studies but never imagined she would graduate with three gold medals. “I was manifesting success and expected maybe just one gold medal, but I never thought I would receive three. It was a huge surprise and made me very happy,” she said.

Also read: Farmer’s daughter wins four golds and tops

Her journey into physiotherapy was not the one she had originally planned. Ms. Spandhana had hoped to pursue an MBBS degree. However, circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic changed her plans, leading her to choose physiotherapy instead.

What began as an alternative path soon became a field she embraced and enjoyed wholeheartedly. Her dedication and hard work eventually earned her one of the highest academic honours in her course. Looking ahead, she plans to pursue a Master’s degree in neurosciences and continue building her career in healthcare.

Coming from a humble background, Ms. Spandhana said her family’s support has been one of her greatest strengths. She dedicated much of her success to the support and guidance she received from her college.

Two gold medals for MBBS student

Meanwhile, Prajwal Kashyap, an MBBS student from Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, graduated with two gold medals and two cash prizes and emerged as the second topper of the university.

Born and raised in Bengaluru, Mr. Kashyap spent his early years in Malleshwaram before moving to Nagarbhavi, where he completed his schooling. He credits much of his success to the supportive environment provided by his family. His father is an engineer, while his mother, now retired, worked as a Sanskrit teacher.

“I was not driven by the intention of getting a gold medal. From day one, I tried to understand the subject well, and these awards are just a result of that effort. My parents have always supported me and allowed me to pursue what I wanted. They never forced me into anything and always encouraged me,” he said.

Beyond examinations and awards, Mr. Kashyap said his true motivation has always been to learn concepts thoroughly and improve his understanding of patient care. He plans to pursue postgraduation in General Medicine before deciding on a super speciality.

BDS student gets double gold

Brinda M.K., a student at SJM Dental College and Hospital, Chitradurga, has won two gold medals and one cash prize in Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) this year.

Born and brought up in Bengaluru, Ms. Brinda comes from a family that values education and professional excellence. Her mother, who began her career as a schoolteacher, now serves as a principal, while her father works as a software engineer.

Speaking about her success, Ms. Brinda said she never expected to earn two gold medals but always gave her best effort in academics. She thanked her college for supporting and encouraging her throughout her course. “It was not something that was planned. I just gave my 100 per cent effort, and my college really pushed me through it. Consistent hard work, patience, and practical learning experiences were key to my success,” she said.

Ms. Brinda now plans to continue in the same field by pursuing higher education and is currently waiting for the counselling process to begin her master’s programme.

Several other students secured two gold medals each: Sanjana S. Rao (AYUSH), A.L.N. Rao Memorial Ayurvedic Medical College, Koppa, Rodrigues Praneel Melvin (AYUSH), Alva’s College of Naturopathy & Yogic Sciences, Moodbidri, Kavana B.K. (Pharm.D), Shri Siddaganga College of Pharmacy, Tumakuru, Annu Priya (B.Pharm), Acharya & B.M. Reddy College of Pharmacy, Bengaluru, Trupti Shanmukh Naik (B.Pharm), Srinivasa College of Pharmacy, Mangaluru, Vedika S. (BPT), Kengal Hanumanthaiah Institute of Physiotherapy, Bengaluru, Kalyani Bajpeyee (Allied Health Sciences), Acharya Institute of Allied Health Sciences, Bengaluru and Shruthika (Allied Health Sciences), A.J. Institute of Medical Sciences, Mangaluru.

With inputs from Poojitha B.V.