In the historic heart of Ayodhya, known for its spiritual essence and age-old tales, another story was quietly unfolding. This was not a tale of mythology or legend, but of real-life determination, resilience, and brilliance. The protagonist? Ran Vijay, a name that would go on to shine not only in the realm of engineering and governance but also in the literary world. His journey from the classrooms of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Faizabad (Ayodhya) to becoming a distinguished officer in Indian Railways and an acclaimed Hindi fiction writer is nothing short of breathtaking.
The Navodaya Roots: Foundation of Greatness
It all began in 1986 when a young Ran Vijay Singh stepped through the gates of JNV Faizabad. As a student from the first batch, he was part of a pioneering group that would forever be connected to the legacy of Navodaya. Between 1986 and 1993, the school became a launchpad for his future achievements. The ethos of discipline, curiosity, and service that Navodaya instilled in him were values that would shape the rest of his life.
Even at a young age, Ran Vijay was different. While other students played and reveled in childhood, he had a thirst for knowledge that extended beyond textbooks. His teachers noticed his extraordinary focus and intellectual rigor, traits that would later become his defining characteristics. In the halls of JNV Faizabad, he formed lifelong friendships, bonds that would extend far beyond the campus walls, and a commitment to the community of Navodayans that still burns strong today.
Scaling New Heights: Pantnagar University and Indian Railways
Upon completing his schooling, Ran Vijay set his sights on the field of engineering, enrolling at Pantnagar University. It was here that he pursued B.Tech in Electrical Engineering, a degree that would be the first step toward an illustrious career. His time at Pantnagar was marked by academic brilliance and an unwavering determination to excel in one of the toughest exams in India: the Indian Engineering Services (IES).
In 1999, Ran Vijay cleared the IES exam on his first attempt—an achievement that placed him among the top engineering minds in the country. He chose to join the Indian Railway Services, a decision that would allow him to contribute to one of the most critical infrastructures in India. But even as he became an integral part of the Indian Railways, Ran Vijay’s hunger for challenges didn’t stop.
In the same year, he also cleared the Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC) examination in his first attempt. However, despite this remarkable feat, his heart was firmly set on serving the nation through the Indian Railways, a sector that represented the lifeline of the country. But his biggest test was yet to come.
The Call of the Civil Services
In 2001, Ran Vijay took another monumental step by clearing the UPSC Civil Services Examination, one of the most prestigious and toughest exams in India. With this achievement, the doors to the top administrative posts of the country were wide open. Yet, in a bold and unexpected decision, he chose not to join the civil services. It was a choice that surprised many, but for Ran Vijay, it was clear: he wanted to continue serving through his expertise in the railway sector, where his passion lay.
Staying true to his calling, Ran Vijay remained with the Indian Railway Services, where he would go on to make significant contributions. Over the years, his dedication, leadership, and deep knowledge saw him rise through the ranks.
Steering India's Future: General Manager at DFCCIL
Today, Ran Vijay holds the prestigious position of General Manager at Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL), a crown jewel in the Indian Railway network. DFCCIL represents the future of India’s freight movement, a project that aims to transform the way goods are transported across the country. As General Manager, Ran Vijay plays a pivotal role in overseeing operations, ensuring that the dedicated freight corridors enhance the efficiency and capacity of India’s railways.
Being posted in Lutyens’ Delhi, the nerve center of Indian governance, Ran Vijay navigates high-level decisions, manages complex logistics, and oversees operations that impact millions of lives. His expertise in engineering and his ability to lead complex teams has made him a key figure in shaping the future of India's transportation sector.
The Writer Within: A Second Life in Fiction
But Ran Vijay is not just an engineer, a leader, or a government officer. He is a man of many talents, and one of his greatest passions lies in fiction writing. In an era where technology often overshadows the written word, Ran Vijay stands as a beacon of creativity, crafting stories that touch the soul. Writing in Hindi, he has become a renowned author with a growing legacy in the literary world.
His first book, “दर्द माँजता है” (2018), was a heart-wrenching exploration of human emotions, a collection of stories that resonated deeply with readers. This was followed by “दिल है छोटा सा” (2020), a touching narrative about life's small joys and struggles. His next novel, “ड्रैगन्स गेम” (2021), showcased his versatility as a writer, venturing into more dramatic and intense storytelling.
But perhaps his most celebrated work came in 2023 with the release of “भोर: उसके हिस्से की”. This novel cemented his place in the literary world as a storyteller who captures the essence of human resilience and hope. His books have touched thousands of readers, bringing to life stories that explore the depth of human experience, all while being rooted in the richness of Hindi literature.
किसी को भी नाराज ना कर पाने की आदत एक दिन आप को स्वयं से नाराज कर देती है - रणविजय
The Unwavering Navodayan: A Community Leader
Despite his monumental achievements in both engineering and literature, Ran Vijay has never forgotten his roots in the Navodaya community. As an active and devoted alumni, he is always there to help his fellow Navodayans, offering support in times of need. Whether it’s career advice, mentorship, or simply providing a shoulder to lean on, Ran Vijay embodies the spirit of community and service that JNV instilled in him.
He remains deeply connected to the Navodaya network, participating in alumni events and fostering a sense of unity among the members. For Ran Vijay, Navodaya is not just a school—it is a family, one that he has committed himself to for life.
A Life of Purpose and Inspiration
The story of Ran Vijay is one that inspires not only his peers but also future generations of Navodayans. His journey is a testament to the power of determination, of pursuing one’s passion, and of staying true to one’s values. Whether as a General Manager in Indian Railways, as an author of Hindi fiction, or as an active member of the Navodaya alumni, Ran Vijay has proven that life’s true purpose lies in serving others and following one’s passions.
In an era where success is often measured by status or material wealth, Ran Vijay’s story offers a different narrative—one where success is defined by impact, creativity, and the bonds we build along the way. His life reminds us that we can be many things: a leader, a creator, a mentor, and still, at the core, remain connected to our roots.
This is the story of Ran Vijay, the Navodayan, the engineer, the writer, and the humble servant of society. His life is a masterpiece still in the making, and for those who look up to him, he is living proof that the power of dreams, coupled with discipline and service, can shape a future beyond imagination.
