In a state where cinema and hero worship dominate popular culture, meet 18-year-old Harini Raghavendran from Chennai – a rising star with grit and ambition who has carved a unique path. She’s the first girl from Tamil Nadu to be selected for the National Defence Academy (NDA) after the armed forces opened up the opportunity to women three years ago. Selected in the first attempt, she also made it to the Indian Naval Academy (INA) simultaneously – a rare feat achieved by only a few. From representing Chennai in basketball to making it to the final NDA merit list out of 10 lakh applicants, Harini’s story is nothing short of inspiring.
Harini, tell us a bit about yourself.
Harini: I’m 18 years old, from Chennai. I completed my 12th grade in 2024 and wrote the NDA entrance exam. In January 2025, I got recommended from 33 SSB Bhopal, which also qualifies me for entry into the Indian Naval Academy.
Why did you choose the NDA route? It’s known for its rigorous training. You could have gone for engineering or medicine like most students.
Harini: Both my parents are in the IT field, but I didn’t want that life. That’s why I didn’t even consider engineering or medicine. I’ve always been physically active; I’m a basketball player and fitness has been a part of my life since childhood. NDA requires physical and mental preparation, and I felt drawn to that path.
What was your friends’ reaction when you told them about your NDA plans?
Harini: I didn’t tell them initially. I was still figuring things out after my 12th. Once I made the decision, I shared it with them. They didn’t know much about the NDA, so I explained everything. They were supportive once they understood.
You took a break year to prepare. That’s a big decision when most of your friends were already in college. How did you deal with that pressure?
Harini: I discussed it with my father. I had three chances to attempt the exam, in September, April last year, and April 2025. He said I could prepare full-time, but if I didn’t clear it in two attempts, I’d have to join college and continue preparing alongside.
How supportive was your mother during this phase?
Harini: My mother was extremely supportive. She did a lot of research for me about NDA, SSB, and other things. She helped me with studies and information. Her support made a huge difference.
What do you think helped you crack the exam in your first attempt?
Harini: I love studying, especially Math and Physics. But I wasn’t always disciplined. That changed from Class 10. Before that, I didn’t study regularly. Once I got into a daily routine, everything became easier. Consistency was key.
You mentioned you’re a basketball player. Did that help you during SSB and medicals?
Harini: Definitely. Basketball helped me build stamina and mental resilience. It also helped during the medicals; I cleared them in my first attempt. In fact, in my interview, 1/4th of the questions was about basketball. It really gave me an edge.
How early should someone start preparing for NDA, ideally?
Harini: Starting in 12th is not enough. Ideally, one should start from Class 10, it will also help if they studied for around 8 hours daily – not necessarily at a stretch.
Your generation is very into social media. How did you avoid distractions like Instagram?
Harini: Self-control is important. I’m not on any social media except WhatsApp. Yes, I lost touch with many friends, but that’s okay. My goal was more important.
What motivated you to join the armed forces?
Harini: Initially, I was interested in the merchant navy. Then my mom came across a video of Bhavani Shankar, who got recommended for NDA last year. That inspired her, and then me. I enrolled in the National Defence Institute, met new friends, and got further motivated by their stories.
What’s the selection process like for NDA?
Harini: Around 5 lakh students write the exam each year. About 8000 clear the written part and are called for SSB. Out of these, around 800 get recommended, but only 400 seats are available. Many get merit-out or medical-out. In my batch, 96 girls were recommended, but only 27 were selected.
NDA involves military training along with academics. How are you preparing mentally?
Harini: I’m excited! NDA is a prestigious academy, and though competition is high for girls, the struggle is worth it. To parents and students, don’t be afraid. If your child wants to go for it, support them.
What are your career goals after joining NDA?
Harini: First, I want to enter the academy and make the most of the 4 years of training. I want to join the Executive Branch of the Indian Navy, and I aim to become the best cadet I can be.
So Navy is your top preference?
Harini: Yes, always. It’s been my first choice from the beginning.
How long do you hope to serve in the armed forces?
Harini: If I get a Permanent Commission, it’s a 20-year tenure. But I’d love to serve for 26 years.
What would you say to parents hesitant to let their daughters pursue NDA/OTA?
Harini: There are many girls already succeeding in these academies. The girls selected are tough, intelligent, and inspiring. The NDA is one of the safest and most prestigious institutions. It offers immense knowledge and privileges.
Can you share 4 pieces of advice for NDA aspirants?
Harini:
- Join only if you’re genuinely interested, don’t do it for show.
- Self-discipline and self-motivation are essential.
- Play a sport, it’ll help in ways you cannot imagine.
- Prepare with a like-minded group of friends; it keeps things enjoyable.
How do you see the interest in defence careers in Tamil Nadu?
Harini: There’s a lot of interest here. Many are aiming for defence roles – through engineering or NDA. I only see that number increasing.
How did your parents support your journey?
Harini: First by allowing me to take a year off. Then by taking genuine interest in the process – be it watching videos or helping with preparation. That made me want to give my best and succeed.
Do you watch movies? Any favourite hero or idol?
Harini: I do watch movies, but I don’t have a favourite hero. I don’t idolise anyone, they’re just doing their jobs.
What helped you stay sane during the preparation phase?
Harini: I wasn’t on social media — not even Instagram. I think not creating an account is a great first step to staying focused. My hobbies helped too – crocheting, cross stitch, solving the Rubik’s cubes. I went to the gym with my dad and played basketball in my free time.
Who is your biggest inspiration?
Harini: I am my own inspiration. My parents inspire me too. But I believe people should give credit to themselves for showing up every day, being consistent, and staying disciplined. I take inspiration from those around me – not celebrities – because I find them relatable. I don’t work based on motivation. I just love what I do.
Finally, why do you say you are your own inspiration? Most people cite a tough phase or another person.
Harini: Because I believe in acknowledging my own efforts. I set small goals and work towards them. I’m not very emotional; I’m practical. I don’t dwell on the past, I just focus on what’s next.
Harini Raghavendran’s story is a reminder that passion, discipline, and inner clarity can go a long way. With her sights firmly set on the Indian Navy, she is not just a beacon of hope for aspiring defence candidates in Tamil Nadu but an emblem of India’s new generation of leaders.
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