In a world where challenges often dim dreams, there are rare souls who rise—not in spite of their limitations, but because of them. They remind us that the human spirit is far more powerful than any obstacle it faces. Anvi, lovingly known as the Rubber Girl of India, is one such soul. Her story is not just about overcoming disability—it’s about redefining what’s possible. She has turned pain into passion and setbacks into stepping stones, igniting a movement that has inspired lakhs across the nation. For every Divyang individual searching for light, Anvi’s journey stands as a glowing torch of courage, healing, and unshakable belief.
At just 17 years old, Anvi Vijay Zanzarukia has become a symbol of unshakable hope, resilience, and inspiration for Divyangjan across the globe. Fondly known as the Rubber Girl of India, she has redefined what it means to live with disability—not as a limitation, but as a unique strength.
Born with three major health challenges—a congenital heart defect that required open-heart surgery, Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) with 75% intellectual disability, and Hirschsprung’s disease—Anvi’s journey was never meant to be easy. Yet, from her earliest days, she showed the world that spirit matters more than circumstance.
What changed her life was yoga—a practice she not only embraced but championed. Inspired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s call for a healthier India, Anvi launched the “Karo Yog, Raho Nirog” campaign. Through her vibrant energy and passionate demonstrations, she has reached over 7 lakh people, encouraging physical and mental wellness in schools, public spaces, and communities throughout Gujarat and beyond.
One of her proudest moments came on 10th September 2022, when she performed yoga in front of the Prime Minister himself at his residence. That moment wasn’t just a personal milestone—it was a message to every specially-abled person: you are seen, you are capable, and you matter.
In the past four years, Anvi has earned 3 Gold and 2 Bronze medals at national-level yoga events, and participated in over 50 competitions, receiving more than 55 awards. Among them are:
- Best Creative Child with Disability Award (2020) – presented by President Ram Nath Kovind
- Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (2022) – from Prime Minister Narendra Modi
- Gujarat Garima Award (2022) – the highest civilian honor for Divyang individuals in Gujarat
She also performed at Divya Kala Shakti – 2020 in Mumbai, a national cultural platform celebrating the talents of specially-abled individuals. But perhaps her most lasting legacy lies in transformation: 3.5 lakh people pledged to adopt yoga in their lives because of her. This isn’t just motivation—it’s a movement.
Anvi proves that strength is not about muscle or intellect—it’s about heart, consistency, and belief. She is living proof that disability is not inability, and her journey shines as a beacon for every Divyang person dreaming of breaking barriers. Let Anvi’s story echo through every corner of the world: If she can bend with grace through life’s hardest poses, so can you. All it takes is belief, one breath at a time.