Missed 50 lectures, did full-time job, lost father, eye surgery, yet he topped CA exam: How this 'Dhurandhar' turned pain into power

Mohd Kaif Khan has shown what sheer determination can achieve, securing All India Rank 35 in the CA Intermediate January 2026 exams. Scoring a total of 436 marks with distinction in both groups, Kaif’s journey is nothing short of inspiring, filled with personal loss, health struggles, and unexpected hurdles.

Juggling Work, Studies and Health

While preparing for the exam, Kaif was also managing a full-time job, leaving him with nearly 50 pending lectures. Realising he needed complete focus, he quit his job in June 2025 and spent the next two months catching up and revising the syllabus.

Just weeks before the exam, he faced another challenge, diplopia (double vision), requiring eye surgery on 1 October, followed by 10 to 15 days of rest.

Family Responsibilities and Personal Loss

Originally from Azamgarh, Kaif moved to Bhiwandi four years ago during his father’s treatment. After his father passed away, he had to take on family responsibilities at a young age. Speaking to NDTV, he said: “Things became very difficult after I lost my father. That was when I decided to prepare for the Chartered Accountancy examinations… Giving up was never an option for me.”

Being the eldest of six siblings, Kaif knew he had to push forward for his mother and brothers.

Setbacks Didn’t Stop Him

As if health and family weren’t enough, Kaif’s bag containing all his notes was stolen just before the exam. Instead of giving up, he chose to appear for the exam and give it his best shot.

Structured Support and Guidance

Kaif relied on CA Wallah to rebuild his preparation. “Since I had already studied with CA Wallah for the CA Foundation, I enrolled in their Intermediate course as well… With a well-structured course plan and consistent guidance, I was able to gradually rebuild my confidence,” he told NDTV, expressing gratitude for his teachers’ support.

Kaif’s success is more than just a rank; it’s a story of courage, persistence, and never giving up. For students juggling studies, work, and life challenges, his journey is a reminder that determination and focus can turn obstacles into achievements.