Prachi Nigam, a teen from Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh, secured the top rank in the state's Class 10 board exams with an exceptional score of 98.5 per cent. However, her achievement was overshadowed by a wave of online trolling targeting her appearance.
Snide remarks and downright sexist takes came Prachi Nigam’s way for having facial hair. Some trolls even resorted to manipulating the teenager’s photo to conform to stereotypical beauty standards.
However, others weren't having it. Numerous social media users rushed to Prachi Nigam’s defence, condemning the trolls and pushing back against arbitrary beauty standards imposed on young girls.
Many expressed concern over the potential emotional impact of such negativity on a young person. They said her facial hair may be due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common hormonal condition affecting women of menstrual age.
A student at Sita Bal Vidya Mandir Inter College, Sitapur, Prachi Nigam topped the UP Board Class 10 exams with a score of 591 out of 600 marks. Expressing surprise and joy, she stated, "I never thought I'd be the topper. I focused on studying but didn't expect the top rank. I'm proud of my hard work.''
Prachi said she aspires to become an engineer and plans to crack the IIT-JEE entrance exam. She attributed her success to consistent effort and emphasizes the importance of regular class attendance.
Prachi Nigam's story is not just about academic excellence; it's a testament to her resilience in the face of negativity. It also drives home the need to celebrate academic achievements and dismantle unrealistic beauty standards that pressure young women to conform.
