Kota JEE Toppers Reveal Secret Weapon: Keypad Phones for 99%ile Success
The competitive exam landscape in India resembles a high-pressure environment, particularly for career-defining tests after Class 12. In coaching hubs like Kota, where students pursue ambitions of securing seats in prestigious institutions like the IITs, rigorous routines are the norm. Amid this backdrop, a recent viral video from a JEE Main 2026 felicitation event has sparked widespread discussion, shifting focus from academic scores to the technology choices of these high-achievers.
Viral Video Shows JEE Toppers Opting for Keypad Phones
A short clip from Kota's JEE toppers event went viral online, featuring students such as Himanshi, who achieved a 99.47 percentile, and Om Shivhare, with a 99.75 percentile, displaying their keypad phones. When a reporter inquired, "What phone do you use?", one student promptly produced her feature phone, explaining she depended on it throughout her preparation, as captured in the video. Another student humorously mentioned "iPhone 19" before unveiling his basic model, eliciting laughter, as reported by Moneycontrol. Filmed during celebrations for the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 results, the video garnered millions of views on platforms like X and Instagram by February 20, 2026.
Why Keypad Phones Dominate in Kota
These so-called "focus phones" restrict users to essential functions like calls and texts, effectively avoiding the distractions posed by social media. Toppers like Om Shivhare informed reporters that he completely avoided social media accounts to maintain concentration on challenging problems, according to a LatestLY report. Local shops even market specific models to students as tools for blocking distractions, reinforcing this trend.
Social Media Reactions to the Phenomenon
Users on social media platforms quickly responded to the viral post. One X user commended the students, stating, "They are close to achieving their dreams, great work," applauding their self-discipline. Another comment read, "This is the reason she is topper; focus is the only currency in Kota," emphasizing the critical role of concentration in such high-stakes environments.
Technology: A Double-Edged Sword in Education
While keypad phones are praised for minimizing distractions, smartphones, when used judiciously, offer valuable resources such as AI tutors and online mock tests. "The problem lies not in devices but in how they are used," argued some users, pointing to the evolving dynamics of modern classrooms where technology can be both a hindrance and a help.
In summary, the viral video from Kota underscores a significant trend among JEE toppers: prioritizing focus over technological convenience. As students navigate the pressures of competitive exams, their choice of basic phones highlights a strategic approach to achieving academic excellence, even in an era dominated by advanced gadgets and digital tools.
