For the community of about 500 visually challenged families living in Vangani, a town approximately 75 km from Mumbai, life is a daily struggle with few choices. Disillusioned by NGO and government efforts alike, most of them have resorted to performing and begging on local trains in Mumbai. A few of them have even started their own 'blind orchestra' and perform at events in neighboring villages. Balu Shinde, one of the members of this orchestra, states that the problem lies in the perception that blind people are not employable and less capable than sighted ones. A lot of these blind families have migrated from other villages and states, and chose Vangani to settle down owing to its relatively cheap accommodation. They live in small, one-room houses, paying a rent of about Rs. 1500-2000 per month. Many are still waiting for their ration cards of the 'below poverty line' category, which entitle them to government subsidies and cheaper food supplies. Despite their bitter realities and hand to mouth existence, these families share a strong bond with their children and with each other, and live determined, dignified lives.