Every once in a while, a life story arrives that challenges our assumptions and shows that perseverance and purpose can rewrite any fate. The story of IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma is one such tale—a journey from a struggling student in rural Madhya Pradesh to the ranks of India’s elite police service. It is a story of grit, love, hardship, and unyielding hope—the kind of story that inspires anyone who feels stuck or discouraged.
Early Life: Roots, Hardship, and Limited Prospects
Born in 1977 in the small village of Bilgaon in the Morena district of Madhya Pradesh, IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma grew up in a humble household that struggled financially. Education, while valued, was never easy. As a child, Sharma barely passed his 9th and 10th grades; in Class XII, he failed in all subjects except Hindi. At a time when many would resign to defeat, he continued to dream.
In that formative phase, IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma faced what many would consider insurmountable odds: limited resources, few opportunities, and low self-confidence. But even as the system seemed to push him aside, he held on to a belief—that his life need not be defined by his academic record.
A Turning Point: Love, Determination, and a Promise
It was around this period that Manoj Kumar Sharma met Shraddha Joshi. Although academically ambitious and hardworking, Sharma saw their future as intertwined. In his courtship, he promised to change his life for the better. That vow became the catalyst for his transformation.
To fulfill that promise—to Shraddha and chiefly to himself—Sharma had to reinvent his life. Motivated by both love and self-respect, he refused to let past failures dictate his future. His resolve was that he would enter the civil services, no matter how steep the climb.
The Grueling Road to UPSC
Transforming dreams into reality would not come easily. To support himself, IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma took up multiple odd jobs. He drove a tempo in his hometown, performed odd chores in Delhi, and even worked as a peon in a library. On many nights, Sharma had no proper shelter—but he carried his books, notes, and belief in his heart.
He attempted the UPSC Civil Services Examination several times. The first three mock attempts failed him in various stages. But with each setback, IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma grew more determined—not bitter. On his fourth try, he cracked it. He secured an All India Rank (AIR) of 121, thus fulfilling his dream of becoming an IPS officer.
That moment marked a vindication of his faith in himself, and the reward for years of sacrifice, struggle, and silent hope.
Serving with Resolve: The Career of IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma
Today, IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma serves as the Additional Commissioner of the Mumbai Police. In his service, he has gained a reputation for being firm yet fair, decisive yet humane. His style has earned him nicknames like “Singham” and “Simba”—epithets that reflect both awe and respect.
His posting in Mumbai, one of India’s largest and most complex cities, brings with it tremendous responsibility. Through difficult cases, high-stake policing, and public scrutiny, IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma continues to uphold law, order, and justice. His rise within the force reflects both leadership skill and unwavering commitment.
The Personal Side: Partnership, Support, and a Love That Anchored
Behind every great public figure is a story of private struggle and quiet support. For IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma, that support came from Shraddha Joshi, who today is an IRS officer. In interviews and public forums, Sharma frequently acknowledges how Shraddha’s faith in him, encouragement, and companionship anchored him through his darkest times.
Their relationship, which began when Sharma was in low academic standing, became one of mutual transformation. While Sharma worked toward becoming an IPS officer, Shraddha likewise pursued her ambitions in public service. Together they weathered doubts, societal expectations, and personal trials. Their journey is more than romance—it is a partnership built on perseverance.
From Cinema to Reality: The “12th Fail” Connection
In late 2023, the film “12th Fail” premiered on December 29, and audiences were moved deeply by the true-life story behind Vikrant Massey’s character. That character was inspired by IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma, whose life had mirrored the arc of failure, redemption, and ultimate triumph.
The film brought IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma’s life into the national light, giving many a chance to understand the depths of his struggle. For people witnessing the journey on screen, this was more than entertainment—it became a lesson: never to give up, even when the world seems to have written you off.
Lessons from the Life of IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma
From this life story emerge multiple lessons that anyone can apply:
- Adversity is not destiny — Early academic failures did not define Sharma; his resilience did.
- Motivation can emerge from love as well as purpose — His desire to prove himself for Shraddha became a powerful fuel.
- Small steps matter — Even seemingly menial jobs and study periods in struggle shaped Sharma’s mental grit.
- Persistence is key — He failed multiple times before success, yet never quit.
- Support systems matter — Relationships, encouragements, and emotional support helped him through.
- Role models emerge from reality — IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma is proof that ordinary beginnings can lead to extraordinary impact.
Broader Impact and Inspiration
When you hear the name IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma, it should evoke more than rank or title—it should evoke possibility. His life suggests that, regardless of background, one can scale to greatness with dedication, integrity, and fight. In a nation facing myriad inequalities and expectations, the story of IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma gives hope to countless young people stuck in difficult circumstances.
His service in Mumbai, his public persona, and his personal journey combine to form a living example—not just of success, but of character. When those in public service, education, social work, or any challenging field wonder whether struggle is worth it, they can look to IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma as proof that it often is.
Final Thoughts: A Life That Speaks
In retelling this life in our blog, my intention is not merely to celebrate IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma as a public servant or cinematic inspiration, but to present a narrative that carries practical encouragement. Failure doesn’t imprison you unless you give in. Ambition doesn’t privilege you unless you act. And love—not in a romantic novel sense, but in a faithful support sense—can give you courage to try again and again.
May this blog, with the story of IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma, embolden readers to believe that sometimes the toughest climbs yield the most breathtaking views. And may it help someone today to stand up one more time, to try again, to chase one more dream.
