Life at IIM Udaipur: First Visually Impaired to join IIM-U, Shares His Inspiring Journey, Campus Life

India’s first visually impaired IIM student shares his inspiring journey at IIM Udaipur, from cracking CAT to interning at Bosch and shaping inclusive leadership.

The sixth episode of Shiksha’s Life at IIM series brings an exceptional story from IIM Udaipur, one that stands out for its courage and determination. Praneet Gupta, a visually impaired candidate to join an IIM. He cracked CAT exam on his very first attempt and received offers from more than 15 IIMs and IITs. From winning global mathematics awards to interning at Bosch as its first visually challenged intern, Praneet’s story captures what true perseverance looks like.

Speaking to Shiksha, he talks about his campus life, academic culture at IIM Udaipur, besides talking about his journey. Read exceprts here…

Q. Tell us about yourself and your journey to this IIM.

Praneet Gupta: I am first visually impaired student to join IIM Udaipur. I cleared CAT in my very first attempt and received admission offers from more than 15 IIMs and IITs, before I chose Indian Institute of Management Udaipur. I have been fortunate to receive Bal Shree President Award from former President Ram Nath Kovind, Lifetime Achievement Award from Governor of Rajasthan, Haribhau Bagade, and recently Academic Excellence Award from Union Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan.

I am also first Indian to win World Champion Award in Mental Mathematics twice, at Delhi and Dubai, where I competed against around 5,500 students from 56 nations. I have created a number of records in mathematics calculation and won India’s Got Talent Math Genius Award.

Beyond my academics, I also hold a Visharad degree in music from Gandharva Music Academy, Mumbai.

I recently completed my MBA internship at Bosch Global Software Technologies Bengaluru, again as first visually challenged intern at Bosch.

I am also founder and CEO of CWC Digital Platform, where we work to build next level inclusive society. In my college, I am currently also serving as treasurer of Dhruva, HR Club.

Outside of work that I do and my academic life, I am a chess enthusiast and also a motivational speaker.

Q.Why did you choose this IIM over others where you got admission offers?

Praneet Gupta: IIM Udaipur was unique because of its strong reputation, focus on academic rigor, vibrant culture, and student driven initiatives. IIM’s values and growing global recognition made me confident that it was the right place for both professional growth and personal transformation.

Q. Can you describe your first week on IIM-U campus, what stood out most?

Praneet Gupta: If I have to recall, what stood out the most was warmth of people and inclusive culture of this campus. I am passionate about traveling alone by any mode of transport, so I came to campus alone from Maharashtra on my very first day. That solo travel gave me lot of confidence. When I arrived here, I felt like a community which was welcoming and supportive.

Q. How would you describe IIM U’s academic culture, is it competitive, collaborative, or both?

Praneet Gupta: I would say it is healthy mix of both, it is competitive and at the same time it is collaborative. Environment at IIM-U challenges you to push your limits, at same time, peers are willing to collaborate and support each other. That balance creates a dynamic and motivating academic experience.

Q. Tell us now about one unique academic tradition or teaching style you have experienced here?

Praneet Gupta: Yes, a unique aspect of teaching learning process is approachable nature of professors here. If I request a professor for a personal meeting to clear my doubts, they are always interested and keen to guide me.

Q. How do you balance your heavy academic activities with extra-curricular?

Praneet Gupta: Since my school time, I have been planning my day in advance. This discipline has helped me achieve a lot over time. At IIM Udaipur also, I plan my schedule as earlier, giving space to both academic and extracurricular activities. For example, while handling responsibilities as Treasurer of our HR Club, Dhruva; I also manage my work as founder and CEO of CWC Digital Community Platform.

Q. Which events or fests are must go experiences on your campus?

Praneet Gupta: Dhruva, the HR Club; Solaris (management fest), Audacity (cultural fest), the entire student driven clubs are must have experiences because they display both talent and teamwork. I would say each event here reflects energy and creativity of IIMU’s student community.

Q. Can you tells us about hostel and social life here. Any interesting rituals or tradition here?

Praneet Gupta: The hostel life here is very vibrant, with students from all over India coming. To talk about social life it revolves around informal gatherings, festival celebrations, and late-night discussions. Interestingly these discussions often lead to new ideas and friendships.

Q. How getting into IIM has shaped your career plans and personal growth?

Praneet Gupta: IIM Udaipur has broadened my career perspective and gave me clarity on leadership, inclusivity, and strategic thinking.  I will carry forward these learnings into my career.

Q. One advice that you would give to someone looking to join this IIM.

Praneet Gupta: I would suggest come with an open mind and a spirit of learning. Be ready to embrace both challenges and opportunities, which would come during your two years. At IIM Udaipur, academics, peers, and professors together transforms you in ways that go far beyond classroom learning.

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• Life at IIM Sambalpur: Varada Satvik on Startup Culture, Student-Driven Campus & Career

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