Paralysed in 2006 Srinagar blast, Gujarat man steers past shadows of terror

SURAT: On May 26, 2006, a summer vacation turned into a nightmare for the Jariwala family in Srinagar. Shivang Jariwala, just a 10-year-old then, was hurriedly disembarking from a bus at which a grenade had been thrown, oblivious to how his life was about to change its course. Those frantic steps he had taken were going to be his last. But his journey was not destined to end there.
The attack, executed by terrorists on a motorcycle, left Shivang with serious spinal injuries that left his lower body permanently paralyzed. For Shivang, it marked the beginning of a challenging journey through multiple surgeries in Srinagar and Mumbai, all unsuccessful in restoring movement below his waist. What he realised over the years was that he was made of sterner stuff, one that transcended his physical limitations.
Today, 18 years later, Shivang drives himself to work in a specially modified Suzuki Swift. After receiving approval from the Regional Transport Office, he researched car modifications online and had acceleration and brake controls installed in the steering wheel. He subsequently obtained a driving licence for persons with disabilities. "I drive on highways too. I drive to Mumbai with friends sometimes," he told TOI.
The blast that altered Shivang's life claimed four young lives from the Jariwala family: Krishna (16), Fenil (8), Robin (8) and Khushboo (16). "I was bedridden for almost 12 years," Shivang told TOI. Despite this setback, he continued his education, studying at home and attending school with support only to take exams. He completed his Class 10, refusing to let his physical limitations define his future.
With unwavering support from his loved ones, Shivang eventually took to meditation to improve his health and decided to join his family's textile manufacturing business, where he now manages bookkeeping and computer work. "Reaching the place of work was a challenge and hence I got my car modified. There has been no looking back since," Shivang said.
"Someone has to lift Shivang and take him to the car and later help him get down. But he manages to drive the car on his own," said Hemaxi, his mother.