Who is Avadh Ojha, why is he trending with Drishti IAS owner and UPSC coach Vikas Divyakriti?

Written By Nikita Shahi | Updated: Jul 31, 2024, 05:48 AM IST

Well-known educators Vikas Divyakirti and Avadh Ojha

As this tragedy continues to unfold, with three lives lost in the basement flood, the swift response of authorities contrasts with the noticeable silence from well-known educators such as Vikas Divyakirti and Avadh Ojha

Following a heart-wrenching incident where three UPSC aspirants perished due to a flood in the basement of an IAS coaching centre in Old Rajinder Nagar, Delhi officials have launched a vigorous campaign to tackle illegal encroachments and unauthorised construction of coaching centres across the city. On July 30, municipal authorities carried out an inspection of Drishti IAS, a prominent coaching centre run by Vikas Divyakirti. 

As this tragedy continues to unfold, with three lives lost in the basement flood, the swift response of authorities contrasts with the noticeable silence from well-known educators such as Vikas Divyakirti and Avadh Ojha. Their lack of public comment has stirred significant frustration and disappointment among the student community, who are now questioning the accountability of these educational figures.

*Who is Avadh OJha?*

Behind the polished exterior of success, there often lies a story filled with unexpected turns and unyielding perseverance. Such is the tale of Avadh Ojha, a name now synonymous with excellence in education.

Avadh Ojha was born on July 3, 1984, in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh, to a government postmaster father, Srimata Prasad Ojha, and a lawyer mother. His journey began in the modest surroundings of Gonda, where he completed his early education at Fatima School. Despite his parents' hopes for a career in medicine, Avadh's interests lay elsewhere. 

As he pursued higher studies in Allahabad, Avadh was introduced to the world of the UPSC. However, the path was fraught with challenges. Despite numerous attempts, he could not clear the exams, leading to a fallout with his family. Forced to fend for himself, Avadh took up various jobs, including a stint as a bartender, to make ends meet.

Avadh's foray into teaching began almost serendipitously. After being thrown out of his home, he found an opportunity to teach history at a local coaching center. His unique teaching style quickly garnered attention, and by 2005, Avadh had moved to Delhi to further his career. He joined several prestigious coaching institutes, such as Chanakya IAS Academy and Vajiram & Ravi IAS, where his engaging methods and clear explanations won the hearts of many students.

In 2019, Avadh founded IQRA IAS Academy in Pune, Maharashtra. The academy quickly gained a reputation for its high success rates, attracting students from across the country. Recognizing the potential of digital platforms, Avadh launched his YouTube channel, "Ray Avadh Ojha," in 2020. The channel, which now boasts over 700,000 subscribers, features motivational talks and educational content, further solidifying his status as a beloved educator.