Mumbai: 

Daddy's girl: Rajisha and her father Dr Pankaj Shah pose in front of their Ghatkopar school yesterday. Rajisha scored 93.07% , while her father, the the school topper in 1970, scored 75.14% Pic/SHADAB KHAN

Yesterday, Rajisha Shah (16), scored 93.07 per cent in her SSC examination – and became the topper in her school. Undoubtedly, it was time to celebrate, but for the Shahs her achievement meant much more.

Thirty-eight years ago, Rajisha's dad, Dr Pankaj Shah (55), scored 75.14 per cent in his SSC exams  — and also topped the same school.

"When my principal called in the morning to give us the good news, my wife and my mother were in tears. In 1970, I had aimed to stand first in my school. My daughter did the same and I'm proud of her," said Dr Shah.

Both father and daughter went to D G Doshi Gurukul High School in Ghatkopar.

Rajisha is happy to follow in her father's footsteps. "I worked hard, my teachers motivated me and my parents blessed me. That was a winning combo and it ensured success," she said.

And added, "I did everything — watched films, went around with my friends, but when I studied, I really studied very hard. There were no restrictions on what I could or couldn't do."

Rajisha participated in every school activity and is particularly keen on playing basketball. She is learning to play guitar and wants to become a doctor just like her dad.

Her father is particularly happy that Rajisha will be felicitated at school.

"I was little upset in 1970 as there was no function in my honour. But now, I will feel honoured when my daughter's achievements are recognised. There is no greater joy than to see your daughter being felicitated at the school you went to," he said.

Rajisha wants her proud father to throw a small party for family and friends and Dr Shah is more than happy to do it for her. "I remember that my father was extremely happy and he patted my back and distributed sweets in the neighbourhood," recalled Dr Shah.

And obviously, the Shahs want to thank their school.

"Most of our relatives have studied at this school. We became better people which helped us build successful careers later. School was like our second home. I never had second thoughts about admitting Rajisha to my school. I knew she would be in good hands and I was proved right," said Dr Shah.