Pune-Based UPSC Aspirant Bags ₹9.1 Lakh in Sleep Internship; All She Had to do Was to Sleep to Earn ‘Sleep Champion of the Year’ Title
In a story that sounds straight out of a dream—quite literally—Pune’s Pooja Madhav Wavhal has emerged as India’s ‘Sleep Champion of the Year,’ bagging a whopping ₹9.1 lakh simply by sleeping for nine hours every night over two months. A civil service aspirant, Wavhal outperformed over one lakh applicants to clinch the top prize in a unique sleep internship program that aims to raise awareness about the rising issue of sleep deprivation in India.
A Dream Internship Turned Reality
The Bengaluru-based internship—now in its fourth year—is part of a wellness initiative that merges innovation with health-conscious living. Designed to promote the importance of quality sleep, the programme challenged participants to adhere to a consistent sleep schedule of nine hours nightly for 60 consecutive days. Wavhal’s dedication to disciplined sleep hygiene helped her secure the highest score of 91.36, making her the standout performer among 15 handpicked interns.
All 15 finalists who completed the internship received a cash reward of ₹1 lakh each, but Wavhal’s exceptional consistency elevated her to the top spot, earning her the grand prize and nationwide recognition.
Not Just Sleep, but Science and Skill
The sleep internship wasn’t just about snoozing—it also included interactive, science-backed activities aimed at improving sleep quality and habits. Interns participated in fun yet insightful challenges such as blindfolded bed-making, finding hidden alarm clocks, and a final ‘sleep-off’ that tested discipline and sleep consistency. Educational workshops further supplemented the experience, making it an engaging and holistic approach to wellness.
How to Apply: Internship Details
The internship is open to Indian citizens aged 22 and above. Each applicant must submit only one form, as multiple entries lead to disqualification. The selection process comprises application forms, video resumes, and short interviews. Candidates must also ensure all information submitted is accurate, as discrepancies or delays result in automatic disqualification.
Communication with applicants is carried out via calls, WhatsApp, SMS, or email, and submission implies acceptance of the platform’s privacy and service policies.
From a Quirky Idea to National Trend
First launched in 2019, the sleep internship began as a novel concept but has evolved into a serious health movement embraced by India’s wellness community. Sleep interns use Wakefit-provided mattresses and are monitored through contactless tracking technology. Despite its structured format, the programme remains fully remote, making it accessible to participants across the country.
As India’s corporate and startup culture begins to acknowledge the toll of chronic sleep deprivation, initiatives like this are fast becoming mainstream. With applications now open for Season 5, the programme continues to attract attention from wellness enthusiasts and young professionals alike.
A Wake-Up Call About Sleep
Wavhal’s story has gone viral not just for its quirky premise, but for what it represents—an awakening to the necessity of good sleep. Her victory is prompting a wider conversation about the importance of rest in a fast-paced world, where sleep is often the first casualty of ambition.
In a society that often equates sleeplessness with productivity, this internship flips the narrative—proving that sometimes, the best thing you can do for your health and success is to get a good night’s rest.
