In the quiet fields of Nanawadi near Belagavi, where the bleating of sheep is more common than the sound of applause, destiny took a remarkable turn. Beerappa Siddappa Doni, the son of humble shepherds from Kagal Taluka, received the call of a lifetime — he had cracked the prestigious UPSC Civil Services Examination, securing an All-India Rank of 551.
The news reached Beerappa not in a classroom or a coaching centre, but while doing what he had always done — herding sheep. As the message sank in, the shepherd’s son burst into a joyous dance amidst his flock, turning a field into a stage for dreams realized. The moment was made even more special when Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah personally called to congratulate him, honouring the grit and perseverance of a young man from the grassroots.
Born into a family of traditional shepherds, Beerappa’s path was anything but ordinary. His parents, Siddappa and Balavva Doni, had spent their lives tending to sheep, but Beerappa harboured a dream that strayed far from the pasture. With books in one hand and a shepherd’s stick in the other, he studied under open skies and among grazing animals, never losing sight of his goal.
His journey wasn’t without hurdles. He gave up a secure job at the post office to dedicate himself fully to his UPSC dream. After two heartbreaking attempts — missing the cut-off by 30 marks first and then just 3 marks — he didn’t give up. On his third attempt, he finally triumphed, proving that perseverance and passion can rewrite destinies.
His family celebrated the milestone uniquely — with garlands, aarti, and the symbolic gift of a lamb, honouring the shepherd boy who dared to dream beyond the horizon. Now, Beerappa sets his sights on joining the Indian Police Service, inspired by a deep desire to serve and protect the country.
Adding to the pride, his elder brother has already fulfilled their father’s dream by joining the Indian Army. Together, these sons of the soil are rising as symbols of hope and determination.
Beerappa’s story is not just about clearing an exam — it’s about breaking boundaries, about believing in oneself when the world doesn’t expect it, and about proving that even the humblest beginnings can lead to the highest of callings.