A Class VIII student from Ballari has captured widespread attention after a video showed her writing a school examination blindfolded, using a practice she calls ‘Gandhari Vidya’. The incident, which took place at Kuravalli Thimmappa Memorial English Medium School, has sparked curiosity and debate across social media platforms.
The student, Himabindu, wrote her Social Science examination with a black cloth tied over her eyes, an act she performed with the consent and supervision of her teachers and parents.
Practising ‘Gandhari Vidya’ from a young age
According to her family and teachers, Himabindu has been practising Gandhari Vidya for several years. Her father, Ramanjaneya Reddy, said she began learning the technique as early as Class I.
“Himabindu practises Gandhari Vidya every day at home. We see her perform such feats regularly,” he said.
Teachers at the school said the student is able to identify photographs and symbols accurately even with her eyes covered, something they attribute to her long-term practice and concentration.
Identifying images and text blindfolded
In the viral video, Himabindu is seen calmly writing her exam without removing the blindfold. According to her teachers, she can identify images of eminent personalities such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Anjaneyaswamy, Sri Kanakadasa, and others within moments.
The student also claims she can identify text on her mobile phone with her eyes closed, a skill that has further intrigued viewers online.
“I have been practising the art of writing blindfolded since I was very young,” Himabindu said. “Before writing an exam, I recite a secret mantra, which I do not reveal to anyone.”
‘Third eye’ and competitive achievements
Himabindu credits her ability to her guru, who taught her Gandhari Vidya. “My guru taught me this method. I understand and decipher everything with my third eye,” she said.
The student added that she has participated in 25 competitions related to this practice and has won several awards.
Her teachers said the school allowed her to demonstrate the skill during the internal Class VIII examination after discussions with her parents, ensuring the process did not disrupt other students.
School-level exam, not board assessment
School authorities clarified that while Himabindu’s feat is remarkable, blindfolded examinations are not permitted in tests conducted by State or Central education boards.
“She appeared only for a school-level examination,” a teacher said. “This was done as an encouragement to her talent and under careful supervision.”
Social media reactions and debate
The video has drawn mixed reactions online. While many users praised Himabindu’s focus, discipline, and confidence, others urged caution and called for scientific validation of such practices.
Educationists noted that while extraordinary abilities should be encouraged, they must be approached with responsibility, particularly when young students are involved.
A moment of pride for Ballari
Despite the debate, Himabindu’s performance has brought her school and Ballari district into the spotlight. Teachers said they remain committed to supporting her academic growth alongside her special interests.
As the video continues to circulate, Himabindu’s blindfolded exam has become a talking point on talent, belief, and the balance between curiosity and caution in education.