Harsh Reality of UPSC Exam, Perks & Power of IAS, FAKE Motivation Ft. Vijender Masijeevi

In this episode, host IRS Ravi Kapoor speaks with Dr. Vijender Singh Chauhan (Vijender Masijeevi) — Associate Professor at Delhi University, noted Hindi literature scholar, motivational speaker, and media analyst.

Widely admired for his mock interviews with UPSC aspirants, Dr. Chauhan blends practical guidance on personality development, communication, and career growth with deep literary and social insights. His work continues to inspire students, professionals, and audiences across India.

In this conversation, they explore:

Who are the best-fit aspirants for UPSC?

Why is there so much craze around Civil Services in India?

Is UPSC really the toughest exam?

Does UPSC fill the gap in India’s education system?

How to overcome distractions during UPSC preparation

How much time and how many books do you really need to clear UPSC?

Tune in for a thought-provoking dialogue that goes beyond exam prep to explore the real meaning of education, discipline, and ambition in India.

(0:00) -Trailer

(0:59) -Introduction

(2:54) -Who Are the Best-Fit Aspirants for UPSC?

(4:28) -Big 5 Personality Test

(10:49) -Why Is There So Much Craze Around Civil Services in India?

(16:54) -Is UPSC Really India’s Toughest Exam?

(20:41) - Does UPSC Fill the Gap in India’s Education System?

(27:37) - How to Overcome Distractions During UPSC Preparation

(35:00) - How Much Time & How Many Books Do You Actually Need to Clear UPSC?

(43:26) - Is rote learning necessary in UPSC preparation?

(47:20) - 20 Seconds Rule of Habits

(52:44) - Message for Aspirants Giving Multiple UPSC Attempts