Virali Modi is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the unyielding spirit of human potential in a world that often measures beauty by superficial standards. As India’s first wheelchair model, she has shattered stereotypes, overcoming her disability and blazing a trail for inclusivity in the fashion industry.
Virali’s journey showcases her triumph and highlights her remarkable advocacy work, including the groundbreaking #MyTrainToo campaign to make railway stations accessible to all. Furthermore, her recognition as one of BBC’s 100 Women has catapulted her voice onto the global stage, empowering countless individuals and sparking conversations about disability rights.
In an exclusive conversation with LifeBeyondNumbers, Virali Modi takes us through her incredible journey that continues to inspire all of us.
The Journey of Resilience and Triumph
Virali Modi’s story is one of indomitable spirit and unwavering determination. At the tender age of 14, Virali contracted a severe malaria case during a family vacation, tragically leading to her becoming paralyzed from the waist down. Her life took an unforeseen turn, as she suddenly found herself navigating a world largely inaccessible for people with disabilities.
She spent 20 days in a coma following her contraction of malaria during a visit to India. During that time, she faced a critical condition and was declared dead for approximately 7 minutes. However, Virali Modi miraculously survived and eventually emerged from the coma, although she was left paralyzed from the waist down due to the illness.
This life-altering experience became a turning point in Virali’s life, motivating her to advocate for disability rights and accessibility. Her journey of resilience and determination serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
“I dislike every term other than disabled because, as activists, we’re trying to spread awareness around the fact that we are equal to any other human being. I mean, can I fly? No. Can I swim like a fish? No. I’m just like any other, except for the fact that I lost the ability to walk. That’s it. By calling us specially-abled or differently-abled, one is only being politically correct,” says Virali, who refused to let her disability define her, despite her physical and emotional challenges.
Her journey to self-acceptance and empowerment began when she embraced her wheelchair as an extension of her identity rather than a limitation. This mindset shift ignited a fierce determination within her to challenge societal norms and redefine beauty standards.
Paving the Way for Inclusivity in the Fashion Industry
Virali’s foray into modeling emerged from her desire to challenge conventional notions of beauty.
In 2014, she participated in a beauty pageant designed for wheelchair users, which proved to be a transformative experience. Her undeniable charm, confidence, and elegance on the runway caught the fashion industry’s attention, leading to Virali becoming India’s first wheelchair model.
“I’ve always wanted to be a model. I’ve always wanted to be in the limelight, but after my disability, I lost all hope. When I heard about the Miss Wheelchair India pageant, I was skeptical about participating, but my parents convinced and encouraged me. At the pageant, I had to meet the demands of the competition. I had to show the best side of me, which I did and got selected.”
Through her modeling career, Virali has shattered stereotypes, demonstrating that beauty knows no boundaries. She has graced numerous fashion shows, collaborated with renowned designers, and featured in prominent media outlets while advocating for more inclusive representation.
Virali’s visibility in the fashion industry has sparked conversations about the need for greater diversity, challenging the industry to create spaces that cater to individuals of all abilities.
The #MyTrainToo Campaign and Railway Accessibility
Virali Modi’s passion for advocacy extends far beyond the fashion industry. Her experiences as a wheelchair user traveling on Indian trains inspired her to launch the #MyTrainToo campaign. This groundbreaking initiative aimed to make railway stations across India accessible to all, particularly individuals with disabilities.
The campaign gained significant traction, highlighting the dire need for inclusive infrastructure and services in India’s vast railway network.
“I started #MyTrainToo in 2017, and the public support was overwhelming. Quite honestly, the support from the government was astonishing. It was a rocky journey, but every official I met believed in the campaign, and we worked together to make nine stations in India totally wheelchair accessible.”
Virali’s tireless efforts, including engaging with policymakers, railway authorities, and the public, led to tangible results. Nine railway stations- Trivandrum, Kochi, Chennai, Tishur, Bombay Central, and more began implementing wheelchair ramps, accessible restrooms, and designated spaces for wheelchair users.
Virali’s campaign has set a precedent for disability rights and accessibility, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society.
Love Finds Its Way
Virali decided to explore the realm of online dating, hoping to find a meaningful connection. She turned to a popular dating app known for its inclusive and empowering approach to online dating.
“I’ve been in relationships, and I’ve gone out on dates where I always felt that I had to compromise because of my disability. In 2022 when I re-downloaded the dating app, I decided that I wasn’t going to compromise. When Kshitij right-swiped on me, I told him exactly what I was looking for.”
Virali’s love story is a testament to those who let an inferiority complex govern them. Finding the right person at the right time is all that matters.
BBC 100 Women and Global Influence
Virali’s relentless advocacy work caught the attention of the BBC, resulting in her inclusion in the esteemed list of BBC’s 100 Women. This recognition further amplified her voice and provided her with a global platform to advocate for disability rights and accessibility. Through interviews, speeches, and public appearances, Virali has shed light on the challenges faced by people with disabilities in India and worldwide.
Her powerful message resonates with individuals from diverse backgrounds, inspiring countless people to challenge societal norms and fight for a more inclusive world. Virali’s influence as a role model has sparked conversations, shifted perceptions, and prompted governments, organizations, and individuals to take action toward creating a more accessible society.
Virali Modi’s incredible journey from paralysis to becoming India’s first wheelchair model exemplifies the indomitable human spirit. Through her story, achievements, and activism, Virali inspires countless individuals to challenge societal barriers, redefine beauty standards, and work towards a more inclusive and accessible world for all.