In the bustling streets of Pune, a story of extraordinary resilience and human spirit is being delivered, one food order at a time. Vikas Tukaram Kinjale, a 46-year-old Zomato delivery partner, has become a symbol of unwavering determination, proving that disability is no barrier to dignity and hard work. His journey, marked by a tragic accident and an eight-year struggle for acceptance, highlights the challenges and triumphs faced by persons with disabilities in India.
From High-Flying Career to a Life-Altering Accident
Nine years ago, Vikas Kinjale's life was on a completely different trajectory. At the age of 37, he was a successful construction supervisor, commanding a handsome monthly salary of ₹1.25 lakh. However, fate had a cruel twist in store. While riding his bike in Pune, a speeding car rammed into him. The severe head injury he sustained led to 63% paralysis, confining him to bed for months.
When doctors finally allowed him to sit up, Vikas looked at his wife and two young daughters. In that moment, he made a pivotal decision: for their sake, he would reclaim his life. "I had to stand up for my family," he resolved, embarking on an arduous eight-year quest to find employment. Company after company turned him away, unable to see past his physical disability.
A New Beginning on Three Wheels
The turning point came when the food delivery platform Zomato gave him a chance. The company provided him with a modified three-wheeler scooter and thoughtfully restricted his delivery zone to the flatter, posh lanes of Kalyani Nagar, Viman Nagar, and Koregaon Park. This consideration ensured he wouldn't have to navigate dangerous staircases or steep slopes.
Today, Kinjale rides for 10 to 12 hours a day, earning up to ₹1,000 on a good day, out of which ₹200–300 goes towards petrol. Living in Vishrantwadi with his family, they manage to keep their heads above water. His dedication is fuelled by a clear goal: to educate his two daughters, who are both studying science. His elder daughter recently made him proud by winning first place in a competition in Satara.
Going Above and Beyond: An Act of Integrity Goes Viral
Kinjale's commitment to his work caught national attention in May this year. A video posted by a Pune customer went viral, showing Vikas returning to collect missing chips and cookies from an order, even though the mistake was not his. In a remarkable display of integrity, he even refused an extra ₹20 tip offered by the grateful customer. This act was made more impactful by the visible evidence of his paralysis.
For those who know him, this was not an isolated incident. Kinjale consistently goes the extra mile. His kindness has touched many customers, who often come downstairs to collect their orders once they realise his condition. One of his most memorable deliveries was to a fifth-floor flat in Viman Nagar. The customer, moved by seeing Vikas's effort, invited him in, offered him refreshments, and called his daughter to witness his perseverance. The delivery charge was ₹100, but the customer gave him ₹500, a gesture that deeply heart-warmed Vikas and reinforced his faith in human kindness.
Despite facing ongoing health challenges, including seasonal leg infections exacerbated by his condition and a recent eight-day hospitalisation after another minor accident, Vikas remains undeterred. On his only day off, he volunteers at a cow shelter and feeds stray animals, spreading compassion in his own way.
His message to the world is simple yet powerful: "Never beg. Trust yourself. Stay positive. Work for your family. God watches honest effort." As the world observes the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the story of Vikas Tukaram Kinjale stands as a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of opportunity and respect.
