Pradeep Mehra: Meet the Noida teen who dreams of joining the Indian Army

A 19-year-old boy from Noida has become an overnight hero for his dedication to joining the Indian Army. The teen, who works at McDonald’s was spotted by author and filmmaker Vinod Kapri running on the street at night. Kapri drove alongside him and offered him a ride, which the boy repeatedly refused saying that he ran 10 km every night as part of his training to get fit and in shape. His shift finishes at 11 pm and the boy runs home after a hard day's work. Kapri filmed their conversation and posted it on Twitter and the exchange has since gone viral. Pradeep, meanwhile, wants privacy and believes that the world bows down to hard work.

Originally from Almora, Pradeep lives with his brother and mother, who is currently unwell. Both boys are working at the same McDonald’s outlet to help make ends meet. Having to work overtime leaves little scope for training, which led him to run the entire distance home after working a long shift.

Pradeep has been receiving praise from both ordinary citizens and celebrities. Even the Indian Army has taken note of his determination.

Lt. Gen Satish Dua posted on Twitter: “His Josh is commendable, and to help him pass the recruitment tests on his merit, I've interacted with Colonel of KUMAON Regiment, Lt Gen Rana Kalita, the Eastern Army Commander. He is doing the needful to train the boy for recruitment into his Regiment. Jai Hind

Industrialist Anand Mahindra also posted on Twitter calling Pradeep ‘Atmanirbhar’ and inspiring. Pradeep has also said that he does not want media attention as he wants to remain focused on his dream.