He watched TV, played daily & avoided endless tuition hours: What Punjab class 10 topper Mani Mahesh Sharma did differently to score 99.23% in board exams

The announcement of the 2026 Punjab School Education Board Class 10 results brought celebrations across the state, but one student in particular caught the internet’s attention. Mani Mahesh Sharma, who secured the second rank in the Punjab board exams with an impressive 99.23%, has gone viral online after sharing the simple daily routine that helped him achieve the score.

What stood out for many people was not just the marks, but the balanced lifestyle behind them. Instead of speaking about endless study hours, Sharma revealed that he made time for television, outdoor play, proper sleep, and most importantly, staying away from social media distractions.

Waking Up at 4 AM and Keeping a Balanced Routine

Speaking to ANI after the results were announced, Mani Mahesh Sharma explained how consistency and discipline played a major role in his preparation.
“I scored 99.23% in the exam... I used to come home at 2 PM, watch TV till 4 PM, studied till 6 PM, played for an hour, studied again from 8 PM to 10-11 PM and then woke up at 4 AM and studied till 6 AM,” he said.

He also credited his parents and teachers for constantly supporting him throughout the academic year.

According to Sharma, one major reason behind his success was maintaining distance from mobile phones and social media platforms during exam preparation.

“I don't use phone and maintained distance with social media due to which I secured this rank,” he added.

Internet Praises the Student’s Honest Study Routine

Soon after the video surfaced online, social media users began praising Sharma’s practical and realistic approach towards studying. Many people pointed out that his schedule looked healthier and more balanced than the intense “study all day” routines often promoted during board exams.

Several users appreciated the fact that the topper still made time to relax, watch television, and play outdoors while maintaining focus on studies.

One user commented that Sharma’s routine reflected “real discipline” rather than unhealthy academic pressure. Another said his success proved that students do not necessarily need to isolate themselves completely to score well in exams.

Many also highlighted how difficult it is for teenagers today to stay away from social media distractions, especially during important academic years.

Why Students Related to Mani Mahesh Sharma’s Story

The story resonated with students and parents alike because it offered a more realistic picture of exam preparation. Instead of promoting nonstop studying, Sharma’s routine focused on balance, consistency, and avoiding unnecessary distractions.

In recent years, concerns around academic stress and burnout among students have grown significantly. That is why many online users said his approach could inspire students to focus on quality study hours rather than simply spending long hours with books.

For many viewers, the biggest takeaway was simple, discipline does not always mean cutting out fun completely. Sometimes, maintaining a healthy routine and staying consistent can matter far more.

Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Meets Board Toppers

Following the declaration of the results, Bhagwant Mann met the top-performing students of the 2026 PSEB Class 10 examinations and congratulated them on their achievement.

As videos of the interaction spread online, Sharma’s calm personality and grounded approach only added to the admiration he received from social media users across the country.

For many students preparing for competitive exams and board results, his message landed clearly, focus, routine, and fewer distractions can sometimes make the biggest difference.

Inputs from agencies