SSB Stories: An Unforgettable Medicals Experience at TGC-118 in Bhopal

Have you ever stumbled upon an especially memorable SSB (Service Selection Board) or medicals experience? In this article, we delve into a peculiar incident that still stands out vividly in my mind, taking place at TGC-118 in Bhopal. While anecdotes related to SSB interviews and medicals can often be mundane, this one is truly unforgettable.

A Journey Through Unfamiliar Territory

Place: TGC-118, Bhopal

The location of this memorable incident was TGC-118 in Bhopal, a daunting place for aspiring candidates. The third week of any SSB or medicals is a testing time, with candidates juggling various tasks and interviews. Our day had been filled with Group Testing Officer (GTO) tasks, leaving us in varying states of exhaustion and disarray. Amidst the heat and sweat of May in Bhopal, our appearance was far from glamorous, with crumpled dress uniforms and a pungent smell in the air.

Unprepared for Interview

On the fateful day, a call came in the middle of the afternoon that some of us could opt for the interview before lunch. In most of my group, the prevailing attitude was one of wanting to present a polished front, a desire to appear dapper and well-groomed. However, my village upbringing and limited formal education meant that I was somewhat unfamiliar with the nuances of formal attire and appearance. I decided out of necessity to rush for the interview, having not had the chance to look presentable.

The Interview: A Humbling Experience

When I arrived at the room of the Interview Officer (IO), my supposed appeal was null and void. Without a chance to freshen up, I appeared rather disheveled. As I stood before the IO, it was clear that my appearance was far from the polished demeanor that others might have exhibited. The IO, a seasoned officer, did not express much in his face even as he evaluated my state. With a slight hint of disgust or perhaps amusement, he inquired about why I was rushing for the interview and missed my lunch. Without a prepared reply, I could only stutter lamely.

The Humbling Admission

When pressed for a reply, I managed to utter the words, "Sir, my father says that..." The IO, now showing a glimmer of interest, probed further. It was then that he smiled and said, "Your manjil (notation in English) must be lunch." Having no choice, I fell silent and allowed him to move on.

Lessons Learned

The interview was a quick one, with most of my responses in Hinglish, a blend of Hindi and English. Despite the initial awkwardness, I passed the interview with flying colors. The experience taught me a valuable lesson: being honest and true to oneself is more endearing than trying to manipulate appearances. Makeup or other superficial additions do not truly make a person beautiful, as beauty lies within.

Unsolicited Advice for Aspirants

For all those who aspire to join the armed forces, I would offer this unsolicited advice: stay true to yourself. Do not be tempted to hide your true appearance or try to appear better than you are. Honesty, sincerity, and authenticity are the traits that will truly stand you in good stead.

Another Embarrassing Anecdote from TGC-118

One of the more embarrassing moments that I had at TGC-118 did not involve the interview itself, but the medicals process. Our medicals took place in a hospital, where a doctor from another hospital was brought in to examine us due to the absence of the usual surgical doctor. The setting was not ideal, as individual checks were replaced by group examinations in a small room.

Group Medicals and Embarrassment

With eight of us undressed and in our undies, the doctor walked by and examined our manhoods in a cursory manner. As he passed, he paused at one of the men and called him out. The incident went as follows: "Tera hi hai ya cheetah ka hai." We were all stunned and looked at the doctor, and the man in question appeared to have a spot on his manhood, much like a cheetah. The group burst into laughter at the absurdity of the situation. The embarrassed man quickly pulled on his undies and left the room, while everyone continued to joke about him.

The Aftermath

For the next two days, every time the doctor appeared, the group would chortle and shout, "Look, the cheetah!" This incident served as a reminder of the myriad unexpected moments that can occur during the SSB process, and how they can still live on in one's memory long after the event itself.

These anecdotes highlight the unique and often humorous aspects of preparing for and undergoing the rigorous process of joining the armed forces. Remember to stay true to yourself and embrace the unexpected moments that come your way!