Lucknow, Sept. 11 -- The glow of success was palpable on the faces of all medallists at the Lucknow University convocation ceremony on Wednesday. For some, their feats were extra special as they overcame numerous hurdles, including financial difficulties, to shine on the stage of excellence.

As many as 180 gold medals, two silver medals, 10 bronze medals and nine book prizes were distributed during the ceremony. A total of 80% of the medallists were women and 20% men.

Dressed in red and white, the achievers recounted their battle against the odds.

Chitra Sahu, 21, a student of MA Geography, was one of the achievers who surmounted challenges to excel.

A recipient of eight medals at the convocation ceremony, she said she is the youngest...