On Sunday, actors Vikrant Massey and Bhumi Pednekar joined Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the eighth edition of his much-anticipated ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’ programme.

The interactive session, aimed at helping students navigate the stress that often comes with exams, saw Vikrant and Bhumi sharing insightful tips and practical advice to help students overcome their anxiety and become “exam warriors.”

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Vikrant Massey, who gained widespread recognition with his hit film ’12th Fail’, drew from his personal experiences and offered a few life-changing hacks to help students succeed during board examinations.

One of his first pieces of advice was simple yet effective: “How will you fight a war if you’re not well-rested or well-fed? So, take rest.”

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Massey emphasized the importance of adequate sleep and relaxation during intense study periods, reminding students that well-being is key to optimal performance.

He also encouraged students to adopt a growth mindset, one that focuses on constant self-improvement. “If you don’t succeed, ask yourself how you can do better next time. Keep improving,” he said.

 

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In addition to studying, Vikrant stressed the importance of having time for hobbies and relaxation. “Go play, unplug, and do what you like. Don’t just learn for exams; learn to grow in life,” he advised, offering students the reminder that mental well-being plays a significant role in academic success.

Another vital tip shared by the actor was the “power of visualization.” According to Massey, visualizing success can create a positive mindset, paving the way for future accomplishments. He also recommended journaling as a method of reflection and mindfulness.

“Take just 10 minutes each day to write about your thoughts and goals. Journaling can serve as a form of meditation,” said Vikrant.

In addition to these practical tips, Vikrant shared a valuable piece of advice that resonated deeply with students—being humble in success. “Never feel arrogant about achieving good marks. Keep your eyes low and your thinking high,” he said, urging students to always stay grounded.

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For him, studying was never about exam scores but about preparing for life itself. If students fall short of their own expectations, Vikrant encouraged them to restart, emphasizing kindness to oneself in moments of failure.

Touching upon the societal pressure students face, especially in terms of career choices, Vikrant opened up about the challenges many young people face when their aspirations conflict with parental expectations.

“If your parents want you to become an engineer, but you want to be a photographer, you should communicate your feelings to them. They’ll understand in time, because all they want is your happiness,” he said.

After Vikrant, actor Bhumi Pednekar, known for her powerful performances in films like ‘Dum Laga Ke Haisha’ and ‘Toilet: Ek Prem Katha’, also took the stage to share her insights on managing stress and maintaining a balanced routine.

Pednekar highlighted the importance of taking breaks during intense study sessions. Recalling her own experiences with exam preparation, she said, “I would take an hour-long break every day, go out to play, or dance—something that would give my brain a much-needed break. Now, when I’m shooting, I take a quick 15-minute lunch break and sleep for half an hour. That half hour recharges me, helping me remain focused for the next eight hours.”

When asked about handling stress, Bhumi’s advice was simple yet powerful: “Be a warrior, not a worrier.”