How can I justify my 2 years of preparation with no work experience in the IIM Ranchi PGPHRM interview with the fact that I was preparing for the bank exams and CAT by myself?

It is common for IIM aspirants to misunderstand the nature of IIM PGPHRM interviews and the relationship between interview preparation and duration. IIM interviews are quite different from typical job interviews or other types of interviews. Rather than evaluating specific skills or knowledge, IIM interviews are designed to assess your core strengths, interests, and management traits. This means that even if you have been preparing for a different field or have taken a break from your studies, your chances of being accepted to an IIM are not necessarily diminished.

It is important to be able to explain any gaps in your education or career path in a positive light, such as by emphasizing your dedication and effort in pursuing your goals. While it may be frustrating to have lost time or to have failed to achieve a particular objective, like not being able to clear CAT, it is important to recognize that we all make choices and take risks in life. Ultimately, what is most important is that you are able to make an effort and learn from your experiences. As long as you are able to do this, you should not regret your choices.