Karnataka: 8 gold! Maid's daughter strikes it rich

Bengaluru: Two years ago, when Bangalore University declared the rank list for under-graduate courses, Sowjanya S.K. had secured the first rank. However, her joy was short lived as she later lost her rank to another student following revaluation.

But this year, she has created a record of sorts by winning eight gold medals and a cash award at the post-graduate level. On Friday, she will be awarded the medals and cash award at the 52nd convocation of the varsity.

Sowjanya lost her father seven years ago on the day of her SSLC exam and her mother began working as daily wage worker to ensure her studies were not affected. A student of Department of Kannada, she recalled how her mother toiled to ensure she got the best of higher education.

Her next goal: Pursue PhD and become an IAS officer. "I have started preparations for both," she said.

Meanwhile, former cricketer Rahul Dravid's decision to turn down the honorary doctorate of the varsity, has been widely praised by netizens. One tweet said: 'This guy deserves a bow! The Wall of dignity, pride, performance and respect.'