Viraj Deshpande

Viraj Deshpande is modest about his achievements,he has become an idol for many youngsters, who are impressed with his intelligence and academic abilities.Viraj has brought acclaim to India by winning the 1st prize at the Xth International Astronomy Olympiad held at Bejing.Viraj first learnt about the Olympiad, when in the 9th standard, he read about it in the newspapers. He applied for it. There was no examination centre in Nashik at that time, but he went to Pune and was selected for the national camp. He didn't make it to the international round though. He tried again. This time, in the under-18 age group, and sailed through smoothly.The 20-day national training camp at the Nehru Science Centre opened for him the opportunities to learn from India's best scientists and academicians. He interacted with former students who had represented India at the Olympiad.The Indian team proved their mettle and brought back five golds, one silver and two bronze medals. Viraj won gold in astronomy.