Virali Modi

About Virali Modi

Virali Modi is a powerful voice of courage, change, and unbreakable spirit. A motivational speaker, disability rights activist, and India’s first wheelchair-using model, Virali’s journey is a testament to the extraordinary strength of the human will. Born in 1991, her life took a dramatic turn at the age of 15 when she survived not one but three near-death experiences, leaving her paralysed and dependent on a wheelchair. But instead of letting adversity define her, Virali chose to transform her struggles into a movement of hope, dignity, and accessibility for millions.

Her advocacy began with her lived experience, years of battling physical, emotional, and societal barriers. Yet it grew into something much larger when Virali decided she would not just overcome obstacles; she would remove them for others. Her landmark social media campaign #MyTrainToo sparked nationwide conversations and led to nine major Indian railway stations becoming wheelchair accessible, a breakthrough in India’s long fight for accessibility. With #RampMyRestaurant, she pushed for inclusive spaces in the hospitality industry, reminding businesses that accessibility is not a privilege but a basic right.

Recognized globally, Virali has delivered multiple TEDx talks, touching audiences with her honesty, humour, and raw strength. Named in the BBC 100 Women list (2017) for her work in transforming Indian railways, Virali continues to amplify the voices of people with disabilities through activism, storytelling, and relentless determination.

Her achievements reflect her spirit, second runner-up at Miss Wheelchair India 2014, two-time recipient of The Women’s Achievement Award, winner of the Rising Star of India Award, and Youth Ambassador for Enable Travel, promoting accessible tourism. As India’s first wheelchair-using model, she has worked with brands like Being Human and FBB, redefining what representation truly looks like. Book Virali Modi as a motivational speaker to inspire your audiences with a story that turns pain into purpose, challenges into courage, and limitations into limitless impact.