By C M Paul
Kolkata, August 23, 2025: In a year clouded by legal delays and mounting anxiety over the West Bengal Joint Entrance Examination (WBJEE), one student quietly rose above the noise.
Aniruddha Chakrabarti of Don Bosco School, Park Circus, secured Rank 1 in WBJEE 2025—an achievement that crowns a remarkable academic journey marked by balance, humility, and quiet resilience.
His credentials speak volumes: All India Rank 348 in JEE Advanced, 99.96% in the ISC examination, and now, the state’s top spot in WBJEE. But those who know him say it’s not just the numbers that define Aniruddha—it’s his character.
“He never made a fuss about his achievements,” says classmate Rohan Dutta. “Even during board exams, he’d help us revise tricky concepts without ever showing off. We all looked up to him—not just for his marks, but for how grounded he was.”
Born into a family of educators, Aniruddha’s academic foundation was strong. His father, Amlan Chakrabarti, a professor of Calcutta University, and his mother, a physics teacher at South Point School, provided both guidance and space to grow. “We never pushed him,” says his mother. “We simply encouraged curiosity. He found joy in learning, and that made all the difference.”
At Don Bosco School, Park Circus, Aniruddha was known for his quiet diligence and collaborative spirit. “He was never just chasing ranks,” recalls his physics teacher. “He genuinely loved the subjects. His questions in class reflected deep thinking, not rote learning.”
Father V.C. George, rector and principal, offered a heartfelt reflection: “Aniruddha embodies the spirit of Virtus et Scientia—virtue and knowledge. His success is not just academic; it’s a testament to his values, discipline, and the quiet leadership he showed among peers. We are proud of him, not only for his rank but for the grace with which he carries it.”
Aniruddha didn’t treat WBJEE as his primary goal. His main focus was JEE Advanced, the gateway to India’s elite IITs. WBJEE, for him, was a reaffirmation of his preparation. This strategic approach is increasingly common among top students, including WBJEE’s second-rank holder, Samyajyoti Biswas, who has already secured a seat at IIT Bombay.
What sets Aniruddha apart is his philosophy. “You should be dedicated to your goal,” he says, “but not sacrifice everything for studies. There has to be a balance.” His love for Mathematics and Physics made studying a pleasure, not a burden. He also used AI platforms like ChatGPT to tackle tricky concepts—an approach that reflects both resourcefulness and adaptability.
As he prepares to enter the world of computer science, Aniruddha’s journey stands as a beacon for students navigating the pressures of modern education. In a year when administrative delays and legal disputes threatened to overshadow student achievements, his calm focus and holistic approach offer a new benchmark—not just for academic success, but for the kind of success that uplifts and endures.