Akash Bhardwaj’s Journey of Empowering Visually Impaired Women in the Travel Industry

June 5, 2024

5 Minutes

Before delving into Akash Bhardwaj’s personal narrative, it is significant to narrate an incident that will leave an enduring impact on readers.

An Encounter that Inspired

Amidst the festive fervor of Diwali, the Lajpat Nagar market was a vibrant hub of activity. Akash Bhardwaj disembarked from the metro and navigated the teeming crowds, his attention drawn to a woman seated on the pavement with two young children by her side. She gracefully recited Quranic verses to one child while inflating a balloon for the other. Amidst the cacophony, something in her demeanor caught Akash’s attention.

Suddenly, a phrase she uttered arrested his thoughts. In clear and articulate Hindi, she said, “Sir, I don’t have change. Please take back this coin.”

Her words resonated deeply with Akash. Despite her humble circumstances, her speech and communication skills were impeccable, hinting at a higher level of education and experience. Driven by curiosity, he initiated a conversation with her.

After some gentle coaxing, she shared her story. She had once held a dignified position as a security guard in a mall, earning a respectable salary of Rs 28,000 per month. However, due to an unknown reason, she had been dismissed from her job, leaving her devastated. Her husband had abandoned her, and despite persistent job applications, she struggled to secure employment.

A Catalyst for Transformation

This encounter ignited a realization within Akash. He understood that individuals with immense potential were being marginalized due to a lack of opportunities. In response, he resolved to establish a platform that would empower such individuals.

Birth of “Khaas” Travel Agency

Akash Bhardwaj, a 37-year-old entrepreneur, founded “Khaas” Travel Agency, a unique enterprise that exclusively employed visually impaired women. Empowering these women became the driving force behind his mission.

With over a decade of corporate experience, Akash recognized the employment challenges faced by visually impaired individuals. Fueled by compassion and an unwavering desire to make a meaningful difference, he embarked on a formidable journey to create a travel agency tailored to their needs.

Initial Obstacles

Securing funding for his venture proved to be a substantial hurdle. Despite approaching numerous lenders and government agencies, Akash’s requests for financial assistance were repeatedly denied. Desperation forced him to liquidate his wife’s jewelry and sell his car to gather the necessary capital.

Their initial office space was far from ideal. The constant tapping of canes used by the visually impaired employees disrupted neighboring offices, leading to complaints from other tenants.

Overcoming Adversity

Undeterred by these setbacks, Akash persevered. He diligently sought opportunities to showcase the capabilities of his team. Despite initial skepticism and resistance, their exceptional service and unwavering determination gradually gained recognition.

A Shift in Perception

As Khaas Travel Agency’s reputation grew, negative perceptions began to dissolve. The same individuals who had once criticized their mission extended their congratulations on their success. Khaas Travel Agency became an inspiration, demonstrating that individuals with disabilities possess the ability to achieve extraordinary feats.

Addressing Period Stigma

One of the challenges encountered by Khaas Travel Agency was the stigma associated with menstruation. Akash personally witnessed the difficulties faced by a female employee who arrived late to work on several occasions due to her period.

To address this issue, Akash initiated an open dialogue with his team, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding. He ensured that his employees had access to a clean and private restroom facility, alleviating the embarrassment and discomfort they had previously experienced.

A Source of Immense Pride

Within a brief period of eight months, Khaas Travel Agency became the world’s first travel company operated entirely by visually impaired individuals. It is a testament to the resilience, dedication, and unwavering spirit of Akash’s team.

Today, Akash is filled with an immense sense of pride in their collective accomplishments. Khaas Travel Agency has not only created gainful employment opportunities for visually impaired women but has also shattered societal perceptions and instilled hope in countless others by championing inclusion.

Addressing Societal Barriers

As a disabled individual himself, Akash is acutely aware of the discrimination and prejudice that people with disabilities often face.

In one instance, a school principal displayed blatant disregard for a visually impaired Khaas Travel Agency employee, making her wait for an extended period before addressing her with condescending remarks. The employee responded with dignity, stating that she did not seek pity but rather respect.

A Call for Collective Action

Khaas Travel Agency’s experiences have highlighted the importance of collective action. Instead of offering handouts or offering empty condolences, it is vital to empower individuals with disabilities to achieve self-sufficiency.

A Vision for the Future

Akash’s vision for the world is simple: a society where India is not only recognized as the blind capital but also as the capital of working blind people. By harnessing the untapped potential of this marginalized population, India can create a more equitable society for all.

An Appeal to All

Akash implores everyone to reflect upon the stories shared in this narrative. May they inspire us to challenge preconceived notions, promote inclusivity, and create a world where every individual, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to live a fulfilling and meaningful life.