Srinagar, Aug 29 (KNO): When life pushed him into absolute darkness, Mohammad Shafi Mir a resident of Magam area of Handwara in north Kashmir's Kupwara district chose to create light—not just for himself but for thousands of others.
A 100% visually challenged motivational speaker, social reformer, and change-maker, Mir’s life is one of resilience, courage, and an unyielding spirit that continues to inspire people across the nation.
Born on March 20, 1982, Mir’s life took a tragic turn in 2006 when, soon after completing his post-graduation in Economics from Kashmir University, he lost his vision completely. What followed were six long years of silence, depression, and self-isolation. But, instead of succumbing to despair, Mir decided to rebuild his life with courage as his guiding force.
That turning point came at Enable India in Bengaluru, a pioneering institute dedicated to empowering the visually impaired. Here, Mir received intensive training in computer literacy, mobility, life skills, employability, and counseling. More than skills, the training restored his confidence and gave him a renewed sense of purpose.
“Blindness took away my sight, but it gave me a vision. True vision does not lie in what the eyes can see, but in what the soul dares to dream,” Mir said while speaking to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO).
Over the last 13 years, Mir has conducted over 500 seminars, workshops, and awareness campaigns across India, including Jammu and Kashmir. His work goes far beyond disability rights—he has been a strong voice against social evils such as drug addiction, child labour, dowry, caste discrimination, and corruption. He also works extensively for women empowerment, child rights, and youth career counseling, ensuring that no section of society is left behind.
His relentless efforts have not gone unnoticed. Mir was recently felicitated with the State Award for his outstanding contribution and unwavering support to disabled persons and blind children. The award was presented by the Chief Minister of J&K Omar Abdullah and Education Minister Sakina Itoo.
As the Chairperson of Women Empowerment Widows, Orphans & Handicapped (WEWOH), Mir continues to champion the cause of those pushed to the margins. His upcoming projects focus particularly on uplifting children with special needs in the field of education, ensuring that disability is never a barrier to learning and growth.
From being a young man lost in the shadows of hopelessness to emerging as a national motivational speaker, Mir’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. His life is a testament to the belief that challenges do not define us—our courage and purpose do.
“Every stage I stand on, every audience I address is a reminder that even in darkness, there is light. The impossible becomes possible only when we refuse to give up,” he said.
For thousands who have heard his story, Mohammad Shafi Mir is not just a motivational speaker—he is living proof that the human spirit, when fueled with resilience, can conquer any darkness.
"My message to the other specially-abled persons will be that your disability isn't the end of life, rather you need to be courageous to fight all odds and overcome challenges," Mir said.
"If one organ isn't functioning, your brain is working and that is enough to dream and work on your dreams to make them come true," he added—(KNO)