Anjali Birla, a name that resonates with determination, resilience, and public service, is an Indian Railway Personnel Service (IRPS) officer and the younger daughter of Om Birla, the esteemed Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Born into a family deeply rooted in public life, Anjali has carved her own path by clearing the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination in her first attempt in 2019. Her journey from a student of Political Science to a civil servant, along with her recent marriage to businessman Aneesh Rajani, has kept her in the spotlight. This detailed biography explores Anjali Birla’s life, education, career, personal milestones, and the challenges she has faced, offering a comprehensive look at her inspiring story.
Early Life and Family Background
Anjali Birla was born on March 27, 1997, in Kota, Rajasthan, into a family committed to societal welfare and public service. Her father, Om Birla, is a prominent Indian politician who has served as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha since 2019, re-elected for a second term in 2024. Known for his impeccable political career and grassroots connect, Om Birla has been a significant influence in Anjali’s life. Her mother, Dr. Amita Birla, is a gynecologist, reflecting the family’s blend of professional excellence and social responsibility. Anjali has an elder sister, Akanksha Birla, a chartered accountant, who has been a source of motivation and guidance throughout her journey.
Growing up in Kota, a city renowned for its educational institutions, Anjali was exposed to a culture of learning and ambition from an early age. Her family’s values of hard work, integrity, and service to society shaped her aspirations, steering her toward a career in civil services.
Education: Foundation of a Stellar Career
Anjali Birla’s academic journey laid the groundwork for her success in the highly competitive UPSC examination. She completed her schooling at Sophia School in Kota, an institution known for nurturing young talent. Excelling in her studies, Anjali developed a keen interest in social sciences, which later influenced her choice of higher education.
After completing school, Anjali pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science (Honours) from Ramjas College, University of Delhi. This choice of discipline was no coincidence—her exposure to her father’s political career and her own curiosity about governance and international relations fueled her passion for the subject. Graduating in 2019, she balanced her academic pursuits with rigorous preparation for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, a testament to her discipline and focus.
UPSC Journey: Clearing the Exam in First Attempt
Anjali Birla’s entry into the civil services is a story of dedication and perseverance. In 2019, she appeared for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, one of India’s toughest competitive exams, comprising three stages: Preliminary, Mains, and Interview. Her results, announced in August 2020, placed her on the Consolidated Reserve List released by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) on January 4, 2021. This list included 89 candidates recommended to fill remaining vacancies, and Anjali’s name featured prominently.
Clearing the UPSC in her first attempt is a remarkable feat, especially given the exam’s low success rate. Anjali credited her family’s support—particularly her father’s commitment to public service and her sister’s guidance—as key motivators. In an interview with PTI, she said, “I wanted to join the civil services to do something for society, inspired by my father’s dedication to the people of the country.” Today, she serves as an IRPS officer in the Ministry of Railways, contributing to India’s infrastructure and workforce management.
Career as an IRPS Officer
As an Indian Railway Personnel Service officer, Anjali Birla plays a vital role in the Ministry of Railways, overseeing human resource management, staff welfare, and training programs. Her work aligns with her vision of societal improvement, a goal she articulated during her UPSC journey. Anjali’s interest in international relations and women’s empowerment also finds expression in her professional life, as she engages with initiatives that uplift communities.
Her career, though in its early stages as of 2025, reflects her commitment to excellence and public service. Working in one of India’s largest public sector organizations, she continues to build on her skills and contribute to nation-building.
Personal Life: Marriage to Aneesh Rajani
On November 12, 2024, Anjali Birla tied the knot with Aneesh Rajani, a businessman from Kota, in a grand ceremony held on the auspicious occasion of Dev Uthani Gyaras. Aneesh, hailing from a prominent Sindhi Hindu business family in Kota, is involved in the oil trade and serves as a director in multiple companies, including Rajani Products Private Limited and AKR Greenco Private Limited. The couple, who were childhood friends, celebrated their union with a wedding attended by dignitaries like Rajasthan CM Bhajan Lal Sharma and Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav.
The wedding reception on November 13, 2024, at a resort on Bundi Road, Kota, drew significant attention, with viral photos showcasing Anjali in a red lehenga and Aneesh in an ivory sherwani. However, the event was marred by false social media claims alleging Aneesh was Muslim, a rumor debunked by fact-checks and BJP leaders like Hari Manjhi, who shared the wedding card confirming Aneesh’s Sindhi Hindu identity.
Controversies and Resilience
Anjali Birla’s journey has not been without challenges. In 2021, social media rumors falsely claimed she secured her IAS position without appearing for the UPSC exam, alleging misuse of her father’s influence. Anjali countered these baseless accusations by sharing her admit card and Detailed Application Form (DAF) with media outlets like The Quint, proving she cleared all three stages of the exam. She emphasized the transparency of the UPSC process, stating, “There is no backdoor entry. It’s sad I had to produce documents to prove I cleared the exam.”
In July 2024, another wave of defamatory posts surfaced amid controversies over UPSC and NEET exams, prompting Anjali to file a defamation suit in the Delhi High Court. The court ordered the removal of these posts, recognizing the damage to her reputation as a civil servant. An FIR was also registered by the Maharashtra Cyber Cell against accounts spreading misinformation. These incidents highlight Anjali’s resilience in the face of adversity and her commitment to upholding her integrity.
Philanthropy and Interests
Beyond her professional life, Anjali Birla is involved in social initiatives through two NGOs focused on women’s empowerment and environmental sustainability. Her passion for societal betterment extends to her interest in international relations, particularly India’s global standing. These endeavors reflect her holistic approach to public service, blending her career with meaningful contributions outside the bureaucracy.
Anjali Birla Today: A Rising Star
As of February 25, 2025, Anjali Birla continues to serve as an IRPS officer while navigating the responsibilities of her new personal life with Aneesh Rajani. At 27, she stands as an inspiration to young aspirants, particularly women, demonstrating that hard work and determination can overcome obstacles. Her story is not just about being Om Birla’s daughter but about forging her own identity in a competitive world.
Conclusion
Anjali Birla’s biography is a testament to her grit, intellect, and dedication to public service. From her formative years in Kota to her academic achievements in Delhi, her UPSC success, and her recent marriage, she has consistently defied stereotypes and challenges. As the daughter of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, she carries a legacy of service, but her accomplishments stand on their own merit. Whether it’s her role in the Ministry of Railways, her social initiatives, or her ability to rise above controversies, Anjali Birla is a name to watch in India’s evolving landscape of leadership and governance.
Comments
Post a Comment