Actor and former Miss World Manushi Chhillar has reflected on one of the most demanding chapters of her life—having to retake the 2015 medical entrance examination after it was cancelled because of a paper leak.
Speaking on a recent podcast, Manushi shared how the experience tested not only her determination but also her understanding of the immense pressure faced by students preparing for highly competitive entrance examinations across India.
Her comments come as discussions around examination integrity and student well-being continue to receive national attention.
“There Were Two Sides to the Experience”
During the conversation, Manushi explained that her memories of the incident are shaped by both personal emotions and a broader understanding of the challenges many students face.
She recalled spending an entire year focused on preparing for the medical entrance examination, setting aside hobbies such as Kuchipudi dance and painting to devote herself completely to her studies.
When the examination had to be retaken, she said it became one of the most emotionally exhausting periods of her academic journey.
“It was one of the toughest phases of my life.”
The Emotional Cost of Starting Again
Manushi described the mental challenge of being asked to continue preparing after months of intense study.
She explained that once students believe they have reached the finish line, extending the preparation period can feel overwhelming.
According to her, the additional weeks required renewed motivation and emotional resilience at a time when many students had already exhausted themselves physically and mentally.
Remembering the Struggles of Fellow Aspirants
While speaking about her own experience, Manushi emphasised that many students faced even greater hardships.
She recalled meeting aspirants whose families had:
- Taken loans to pay for coaching classes.
- Moved to different cities for better educational opportunities.
- Lived away from home in modest accommodation while preparing for the examination.
- Made significant financial and personal sacrifices to pursue medical education.
She said these stories gave her a deeper appreciation of the pressure carried by thousands of young aspirants across the country.
From Medical Aspirant to Miss World
Before entering the entertainment industry, Manushi had planned to pursue a career in medicine.
Her journey took a different direction after she won the Miss World 2017 title, becoming the sixth Indian to receive the international crown.
The achievement opened the doors to a career in cinema while also making her one of India’s most recognised public figures.
Building a Career in Bollywood
Manushi made her acting debut in Samrat Prithviraj opposite Akshay Kumar.
She later appeared in films including:
- The Great Indian Family
- Bade Miyan Chote Miyan
More recently, she featured in the spy action thriller Tehran, expanding her filmography with action-oriented roles.
Why Her Story Resonates
Manushi’s reflections extend beyond her own experience.
They highlight the emotional demands placed on students preparing for competitive examinations, where months—and often years—of preparation depend on a single test.
Her comments also underscore the importance of examination systems that are fair, transparent and trusted by candidates, while recognising the dedication and sacrifices made by students and their families.
