Visually impaired Shyam, a college student completed his course in massaging and is now working for the ‘Bapu Nature Cure Hospital’, an Ayurvedic Centre, Delhi. He is looking forward to doing his master’s degree with the money he earns.

Life has changed for the 35 students of the Blind Relief Association (B.R.A.) ever since the association tied up with ‘Vandana Luthra Curls and Curves', the Beauty and Slimming Centre, Delhi (V.L.C.C.) about two years ago for a certificate course in massaging. David, the placement officer says, “I had heard that the blind people in Thailand give massages. I thought why couldn’t the Indians do it? ”The Ritu and Ramesh Suri Centre for Relaxation and Therapeutic Massage at B.R.A., Delhi imparts scientific training in massage. The course mainly covers Swedish massage, Thai massage, pressure point massage, aroma oil and head massage. In fact, It happens to be the only vocational course that helps students become self-employed.

But the going has not been easy for the students. Clients find it difficult to accept blind masseurs. Yet most of the students have found job opportunities. And are working hard towards establishing their presence in this all new field.