Take it easy, says all-India CBSE topper

Amid the many ­nervous aspirants at Delhi University’s North Campus on Tuesday, we ­spotted the ­rather relaxed all-India ­topper, Sarthak Agrawal, at Shri Ram College of Commerce.

Amid the many ­nervous aspirants at Delhi University’s North Campus on Tuesday, we ­spotted the ­rather relaxed all-India ­topper, Sarthak Agrawal, at Shri Ram College of Commerce. Having scored 99.6% in the CBSE exams, the 18-year-old shared some advice for ­others to not worry about the crazy cut-offs, and said he has taken in his stride all the fun being poked at him on social media.

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“Yes, I have seen the memes (that make fun of his high score). All of it is in good humour ... I am amazed how creative people are! I also had a good laugh at some of them. As long as these jokes don’t hurt anyone’s feelings, I’m all for them!” said the Delhi boy, who will now pursue BA Economics Honours from SRCC.

His father Sushil Chandra, a software consultant, said he understood the ­worries of other parents and students, and advised them to not to be discouraged. “There is no fun to be stressed. The best part was that Sarthak never stressed. I advise all ­parents and students not to get discouraged and seek ­admission wherever they get it ... it’ll all be good.”

Talking about not missing out on the good things in life over academic pressure, Sarthak said, “Even while preparing for the exams, I tried to take out time for sports. I like playing cricket and table tennis.”