Photographer's Note: Bhargavi has created a series of portraits that persuade each one of us to reflect on what we can do to further the cause of rights of people with disabilities.

These are 4 extraordinary, inspiring individuals who despite the odds have accomplished great things. And yet some desires remain unfulfilled - desires whose onus falls upon all of society to help fulfill. 

These are exposed in the placards that they are holding up, words each person chose for themselves:

Empathy (Spinal Chord Injury - Ketna L. Mehta)

Intimacy (Cerebral Palsy - Malini Chib)

Awareness (Visually Impaired - Dr. Sam Taraporevala)

Equality (Polio - Dr. Satendra Singh)

The series is a juxtaposition celebrating their spirit and individual accomplishments contrasted with prejudices and societal progress that remain unrealized.

You will notice that in the images, the half rolled out background, light stands, tape on the floor, etc. - things that would normally be edited out, have been intentionally retained.This is a reflection of our world, to remind us that despite its obstacles and imperfections, there’s beauty to be found, if we only we alter our perspectives a little.

There’s no doubt that society, especially Indian society, has a long ways to go, but at least efforts like these are a positive step that nudge us along in the right direction.