Who is Srijani? The girl who scored perfect marks in the CISCE ISC exam and chose humanity over labels

Time of India

03-05-2025

In a world where identity is often framed by surnames, caste, and religion, a 17-year-old girl from Kolkata is making headlines for redefining what it means to be truly educated — not just in marks, but in values.
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The Topper with a Difference
Srijani, a student of The
Future Foundation School
in Kolkata, scored a perfect 100% in her ISC Class XII examinations — a rare feat in itself. But it's not just her academic brilliance that's drawing admiration. Srijani has refused to use a surname in any official capacity, stating that her only religion is "humanity."
She believes that true equality can't exist unless we rise above divisive identities rooted in caste, creed, and religion.
'I am against all kinds of inequality—social, economic, or religious,' she told the Times of India. Her philosophy is simple but profound: in a truly evolved society, no one should be known by the baggage of inherited labels.
A Family of Freethinkers
Her decision didn't emerge in isolation. Srijani's upbringing in a progressive, intellectual household has shaped her beliefs. Her mother, Gopa Mukherjee, an assistant professor at Gurudas College, and her father, Debasish Goswami, a renowned mathematician and Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Awardee, have long stood against patriarchy and caste hierarchy.
Interestingly, when applying for their children's birth certificates, the parents didn't include any surname. 'We wanted our children to grow up free — not burdened by caste or religion,' said her mother.
Walking the Talk
Srijani doesn't just preach ideals — she lives them. Ahead of her board exams, she made a formal request to omit her surname in registration forms, an act of quiet defiance that reflects deep conviction.
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The principal of her school, Ranjan Mitter, backed her decision, saying, 'As long as the law is satisfied, we support the family's wishes.'
She also took part in the "Reclaim the Night" protest in August 2024, a massive demonstration following the tragic rape and murder of a PGT doctor. Srijani and her family were among the thousands demanding justice and women's safety, showing that her activism extends beyond the classroom.
Simplicity and Brilliance in Equal Measure
Despite her national recognition and political visitors — including State Power Minister Aroop Biswas who personally visited her home to felicitate her — Srijani remains grounded. Her dream is to study physics or mathematics at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru. Her focus remains firmly on learning and contributing meaningfully to society.
More Than Just a Name
Srijani is not just a name; she's a statement — of intellect, integrity, and inclusive ideals.
In a time when academic toppers often make news only for their marks, Srijani is raising the bar by reminding us that true education begins when we start questioning inequality and championing human values.