The Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examination season officially began on February 10, with thousands of students across Maharashtra appearing for their first paper (Pic/Ashish Raje)

At Podar College in Matunga, emotions ran high as students gathered early in the morning, clutching notes and offering silent prayers before stepping into the examination halls

The picture from the exam center reflected the intensity of the moment

Groups of students were seen revising key points and discussing possible questions until the very last minute

In a heartwarming sight, a younger sibling waved and sent best wishes to an HSC candidate, highlighting the family support behind each examinee