It is with deep reverence and heartfelt reflection that we present the following blogs, penned by Mr. Vinit Shetty. His insightful words encapsulate his remarkable journey through life. Though he is no longer with us, his words remain a testament to the profound journey through life, May his legacy continue to inspire and resonate with all who read them.
Author: Vinit Shetty
Content Creators:
Editor: Vrindashree Kumar
Illustrator: Vibha G Rao
Guest Contributors: Jayanthi Hegde, Shreya Shetty, Nishit Shetty
Our homes are sanctuaries—a place to unwind, recharge, and embrace comfort. But for me, home has often felt like a battlefield, riddled with challenges that most of us can scarcely imagine. Living with a disability in a society where accessibility is often an afterthought has shaped my life in ways that demand both strength and adaptability.
The Grueling Climb at Sion
For years, my grandmother and I lived in a third-floor apartment in Sion. Without an elevator or handrails, the daily trek up the stairs was a punishing ordeal. Each floor felt like scaling a mountain, forcing me to pause and catch my breath multiple times. For my grandmother, independence meant staying there despite its difficulties, but the limitations were undeniable. Her evening walks were confined to the terrace because venturing beyond those three floors was too daunting.
“Why are people confined to spaces like these?” I would wonder. Universal accessibility isn’t just for a few; it benefits everyone, young or old. We are all ageing, yet our spaces rarely account for the inevitabilities of life.
The House That Fell Short
Like many homes, mine wasn’t built with someone like me in mind. Every corner seemed to hold a new challenge—a silent reminder of how often the needs of those with disabilities are overlooked.
The Entrance Dilemma : The apartment step initially barred my wheelchair altogether. A hastily installed ramp solved part of the problem, but it was far from perfect.
Cramped Lifts and Narrow Doorways : Maneuvering through our small elevator with its quickly closing doors became an art of precision. Narrow door frames turned into unintentional battlegrounds, leaving my wheelchair—and me—bruised.
Furniture Troubles: Beds too high, chairs too low—each piece of furniture was a puzzle that demanded creative solutions.
Everyday Inconveniences : Tasks as simple as switching on a fan or opening a window became monumental hurdles as my condition evolved. Accessible furniture helped, but it was a slow journey to adapt.
Adapting My Space: A Haven of Control
Despite the barriers, I’ve transformed my room into a sanctuary—a space where I can reclaim some control over my environment.
My belongings are meticulously arranged within arm’s reach, a small yet empowering adjustment.
Technology, like my smartwatch and phone, has become a lifeline. I remember one early morning when I fell out of bed and couldn’t get up. My phone, strapped around my neck, allowed me to call my cousin Nishit anna for help.
From installing sliding bathroom doors to adding handrails in critical areas, my family has been instrumental in reimagining our home’s layout to prioritize safety and accessibility.
Yet, these adaptations are just one piece of the puzzle. The emotional shift—from fiercely guarding my independence to learning to accept help—has been equally transformative. I’ve even created a detailed guide for caregivers, ensuring they know how to assist me without compromising my dignity.
Challenges Beyond My Door
The world outside my home presents its own set of daunting hurdles:
Uneven pavements, open drains, and poorly designed streets turn mobility into a hazardous adventure.
Public transport remains largely inaccessible, lacking ramps and designated spaces for wheelchair users.
Malls and even my favorite beaches are off-limits due to inadequate design. I long for the simple joy of feeling the sand under my legs, yet that dream seems distant. These limitations don’t just steal experiences; they diminish a sense of belonging. What can architects and designers do to change this? How can we create spaces where everyone can share in life’s joys? These questions demand urgent answers.
For me, life has been a series of battles. But it has also been a testament to the power of adaptation and resilience. My story is not just my own—it’s a reminder for all of us to reimagine our world as one where no one is left behind. Let's build a future that embraces everyone, regardless of ability because inclusion doesn’t just benefit a few—it enriches us all.
Accessibility is not a luxury—it’s a matter of dignity, independence, and inclusion. Whether it’s homes, streets, or public spaces, thoughtful design can transform lives. As Norman Foster said, "You cannot separate buildings from the infrastructure of cities and the mobility of transit." True inclusion requires a holistic approach, where accessibility is not an afterthought but a standard.
Shreya Shetty, sister of Vinit Shetty, shares a deeply personal reflection: “Today, on what would have been Boxyanna's birthday, I'm reminded of the countless celebrations we had in his room. Our entire family would squeeze in, surrounded by the familiarity of his space, and cut the cake together. It was always a special moment, filled with love and laughter. But as I reflect on those memories, I'm also struck by the harsh reality of inaccessibility. Even in our own homes, we often overlook the needs to make the space accessible. Boxyanna's room, where we shared so many joyous moments, was a sanctuary for him. But it was also a constant reminder of the barriers he faced every day.
As we continue to advocate for accessibility and inclusivity, let's not forget the importance of making our own homes and communities more accessible. It's not just about installing ramps or widening doorways; it's about creating spaces that truly welcome and empower everyone. So on this birthday, I want to honor Boxyanna's memory by highlighting the urgent need for accessible infrastructure – in our homes, public spaces, and communities. Let's work together to create a world where everyone can participate, contribute, and celebrate without barriers.
Happy birthday, dearest boxyanna. Your legacy lives on through these blogs, your continued advocacy for accessibility and inclusivity.”
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