Maharashtra SSC results: How the toppers prepared, what they want to pursue

Indian Express

13-05-2025

By Alister Augustine and Ashutosh Sahoo
The Maharashtra State Board SSC 2024-25 results have brought many inspiring stories from students across the city, highlighting the power of consistent effort, self-study and support from schools and families.
Raavi Namjoshi from New English School scored a perfect 100% in the SSC exams. Speaking about her achievement, Raavi said, 'I really wasn't expecting to get a hundred percent! I thought I'd do well, but this came as a big surprise. I had prepared thoroughly, but you always think something might go wrong. I think the key was consistency — I didn't overdo anything. My parents never pressured me; they just supported me at every step. I could watch TV, take breaks, and do what I liked. That balance kept me motivated. I love science, especially understanding how things work, so I'm planning to take the science stream, and if I continue enjoying it, maybe I'll go into pure science in the future.'
Her father shared his pride, saying, 'Raavi has been studying on her own, sincerely, for the past year. We chose not to put her in any coaching classes. It was her mother and her teachers who were her biggest guides. We believe that early education in one's mother tongue lays the strongest foundation. Later, one can learn many other languages. But most of all, we let her be. We didn't restrict her from watching movies or playing. This result is hers alone — a product of her dedication.'
In Chinchwad, 15-year-old Atharva Ashish from St Andrew's High School scored 95.80% to become the school topper. Atharva said, 'It felt amazing when I saw my name up there on the toppers board. That moment made everything worth it. I studied completely from home, no extra classes, just self-study and guidance from my parents. They helped me stay focused without putting pressure. My favourite subject is Maths. I love solving problems and I have scored highest in it by 98 out of 100. I want to pursue science, and my dream is to become a space scientist.'
At St Joseph High School in Ghorpadi, 16-year-old Nafeesathul Misiriya topped with 92.80%. She said, 'I'm so, so happy — I really can't describe it in words. It was a tough year with so much competition, and I didn't go for any tuition or classes. I studied entirely from home, using textbooks, online resources, and by planning my time well. My parents were always encouraging. I want to become a software engineer. I love how coding works, and how technology is shaping our lives. English is my favorite subject because I enjoy reading and writing. Painting is my biggest hobby and I even scored 5 extra marks because I cleared both elementary and intermediate drawing exams. That really boosted my score too.' At the Rajarshi Shahu Vidya Mandir in Ambegaon Budruk, Sai Ashish Shitole topped the school with 97%, including a score of 100 out of 100 in Sanskrit.