Back in 2015, the Indian-American student captured hearts nationwide as a fan favorite during the Scripps National Spelling Bee, impressively advancing all the way to the ninth round. His journey at the bee actually began earlier—back in 2012—when, as a fifth grader, he made his first appearance and started making a name for himself. Before all the spotlight and national recognition, the Indian-American student was honing his skills at Winston Academy in Louisville, Mississippi, where he balanced academics with quiet determination. Interestingly, he wasn’t the only one in the family with spelling talent; his sister Rani had already stepped onto the same stage back in 2010, competing in the Scripps National Spelling Bee and paving the way for him. Over the years, the Indian-American student became a symbol of perseverance and passion, earning admiration from fans and peers alike.
He casually pronounced the word “iridocyclitis” in such a unique way that it quickly caught fire online—people couldn’t stop sharing it. His take on the complex medical term ended up going viral, racking up several million loops on Vine. Honestly, no one saw it coming, but his moment of linguistic flair became an internet sensation. He really made that word his own, and fans kept coming back to replay it over and over.