Sometimes a story does more than just get read. It moves people to act.
When The Better India shared Nikhil Bharadwaj’s story, readers met a 25-year-old former Rapido driver whose life had changed within minutes after a devastating train accident.
Nikhil lost both his arms in the accident. As he lay injured and called for help, several people around him chose to film what was happening instead of stepping forward.
The experience stayed with him. So did his determination to rebuild his life.
A journey back to independence
Before the accident, Nikhil earned a living as a Rapido driver. Each ride helped him build an independent life and support his family.
The accident took away his source of income and made everyday tasks difficult. Nikhil also had to live with the memory of lying injured while help failed to arrive when he needed it most.
Bionic arms could help him regain control over daily activities, return to work and begin supporting himself again.
Watch Nikhil’s story here.
Readers have raised Rs 82000
After his story was published, readers across the country began contributing to his fundraiser.
Together, they have raised Rs 82,000 so far towards Nikhil’s bionic arms.
Each contribution has brought him closer to a future where he can work again, manage everyday tasks and reclaim the independence he had built before the accident.
In a video message shared after the fundraiser began receiving support, Nikhil expressed his gratitude to everyone who contributed and shared his story.
For him, the Rs 82,000 represents people choosing to believe in his future.
The person who keeps him going
Nikhil draws much of his strength from his 55-year-old father.
Nikhil Bharadwaj’s father, who is 55-years-old, continues working as a Zomato delivery partner. Photograph: (The Better India)
Still recovering from heart surgery, his father leaves home every morning to work as a Zomato delivery partner and support the family.
Watching him continue to work through his own health challenges gives Nikhil another reason to keep fighting. He wants to recover, return to work and ensure that his father’s efforts lead to the secure future they are both working towards.
On the day of the accident, Nikhil experienced the pain of being watched while he needed help. Today, people who know him only through his story are choosing to stand beside him.
