When Kabeer Chillar secured an All India Rank 2 in JEE Advanced, his dreams didn’t come to a full stop. The prodigy, who is currently a Computer Science Engineering student at IIT Bombay, aims to get into Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for higher studies. Most recently, the IITian, along with three teammates, bagged a remarkable global recognition for India at the 58th International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO). Kabeer and his teammates won gold medals at the global competition held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.What stands out more in Kabeer Chillar’s journey is the young boy’s approach towards studies, exams, and success.
14 Jul 2026 | 16:51
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When the JEE Advanced results came out, Kabeer described his mindset in many interviews and said: “I was relaxed before the paper. I was relaxed during the paper. I was relaxed after the paper.” In an interview with the Indian Express, Kabir said, “I never studied for the number. I just focused on understanding things properly.”
Photo: Kabeer Chillar
However, one thing is certain, Kabeer Chillar’s way of thinking couldn’t have developed overnight. Behind the powerful mindset was a secure home environment. Kabeer Chillar’s parents provided the boy an environment where curiosity was encouraged, pressure was kept in check, and success was not reduced to ranks.
What Kabeer Chillar’s parents did differently
His father, Mohit Chillar, an alumnus of IIT Kharagpur, understands the competitiveness of India’s engineering entrance examinations firsthand. His mother, Priyanka Chillar, is a teacher at a private school. Yet, despite being well aware of the significance of JEE, they chose not to make ranks the centre of their son’s journey.Speaking after the results, Kabeer’s father Mohit said the family would have been happy regardless of the rank his son secured. “We would have been happy with any rank he got; this is just a bonus,” he told The Indian Express. The statement reflects a mindset that many child psychologists advocate- celebrating a child’s effort and growth rather than tying their self-worth to a score or rank. Such an environment can reduce performance anxiety and help children approach challenges with confidence instead of fear. In another interview, his mom said, “We are blessed and happy.” Admitting that she always believed in her son, Priyanka said, “Kabeer has always been a determined child. If he decides to achieve something, he doesn’t stop until he does.” Her words suggest that the family recognised and nurtured Kabeer’s intrinsic motivation instead of constantly pushing him towards external achievements.Kabeer Chillar’s parents didn’t push him to achieve success. Other than providing the right guidance, they gave their child a supportive environment and trusted his abilities.
Kabeer is an example of how children of supportive parents turn out
Interestingly, one more thing fascinated many about Kabeer Chillar- His outgoing personality. Earlier, toppers were associated with being someone socially awkward, but Kabeer brought a refreshing image. His relaxed, confident, and unbothered personality also became a topic of conversation.Kabeer Chillar’s story offers an important reminder for parents. Academic excellence does not have to come at the cost of a child’s confidence, curiosity or happiness. Sometimes, the greatest gift parents can give their children is not relentless pressure to succeed, but the freedom to learn, the confidence to fail, and the assurance that they are valued regardless of the outcome.
