Specially-abled defy conventions, walk the ramp in a fashion, talent show - See pics

The fashion show featured specially-abled persons aged between 16 and 32, all of whom have been special achievers in their respective fields of sports, dance, yoga etc. 

Shriram Srinivas, aged 28, has been enduring an intellectual disability and cerebral palsy from birth, but he’s an accomplished sea-swimming and can cycle, despite being unable to stand. He was among those who walked the ramp at the event. 

"He was specially trained to walk with his crutches and it was extremely happy for us to see him walk the ramp. There were no events during COVID-19 lockdowns and there was hardly any activity for a special achiever like him. Although he can't speak or understand us, his happiness of having achieved something special was felt by all of us,” Srinivas' mother told Zee Media. 

The event was held in Chennai (Tamil Nadu) and saw some specially-abled models confidently walking the ramp, while others arriving in style on their wheelchairs accompanied by able-bodied models.

According to the organizers, the event was meant to shine the spotlight on the talents of the specially-abled and bring to the fore their abilities.

Another performer at the event was Poonguzhali, who has learnt the classical dance Bharatnatyam despite undergoing treatment for Down’s syndrome and having weak bones. While others walked the ramp, she performed a solo dance. 

"She has been learning Bharatnatyam for the last 10 years and has also performed at other stage shows. With the help of her Guru, she also trains a few students. She might have complicated health issues, but she’s a perfect dancer right from the moment she adorns the costume. That’s where her happiness and enthusiasm comes from,” Poonguzhali's mother expressed to Zee Media. 

Shobhana Dhiman, part of the Dhiman social welfare trust, told Zee Media that their core field is yoga and naturopathy that is customized for the differently-abled.  

"But this event is meant to provide the achievers with an on-stage experience and to cheer them up," she added. 

The trust has been conducting activities to empower specially-abled individuals across several cities in India.