In a world where social status and appearances often take precedence, one man chose compassion over glamour. A successful model with a promising career, he walked away from the flashing cameras and high-end fashion shows to rescue a paralysed monkey. Critics called him an "attention seeker," but his mission proved to be far greater than the opinions of others.

The Glamorous Life He Left Behind

For years, Arjun Malhotra was a well-known face in the fashion industry. Walking the ramp for top designers and featuring in luxury brand campaigns, he lived the dream many aspired to. Yet, beneath the glitz, something felt missing. His love for animals had always been a part of him, but it wasn’t until a life-changing encounter that he truly found his purpose.

The Monkey That Changed Everything

One evening, Arjun stumbled upon a motionless monkey near a construction site in Mumbai. The animal had suffered a spinal injury, likely from electrocution or a fall, leaving it paralysed from the waist down. Passersby ignored it, assuming it wouldn’t survive, but Arjun couldn't turn away.

Despite having no prior experience in wildlife rescue, he carefully carried the monkey to a vet. The prognosis was grim—permanent paralysis. Most would have given up, but Arjun chose to fight for its survival.

Criticism and Sacrifices

As Arjun dedicated himself to the monkey’s care, the reactions from people were mixed. Some applauded his efforts, but many ridiculed him. Friends from the fashion industry called it a phase or a publicity stunt, while others dismissed his work as an attempt to stay relevant.

“People said I was being dramatic, an ‘attention seeker’ trying to create a new image. But I didn’t care—I knew I had found something more meaningful than fame,” Arjun recalls.

Leaving behind the world of modelling, he spent months rehabilitating the monkey, whom he named Kaju. He designed a custom wheelchair for the little primate and even trained him to move using his front limbs. Today, Kaju lives in a special care facility for rescued animals, where he leads a happy and safe life.

A New Life as an Animal Rescuer

What started with one monkey soon turned into a mission. Arjun now runs an animal rescue initiative, focusing on injured and abandoned wildlife in urban areas. His team works tirelessly to save birds, monkeys, and stray animals that suffer due to human negligence.

Lessons in Compassion

Arjun’s journey is a testament to following one’s heart, even when society doubts you. He may have left behind the glamour of the fashion world, but in return, he found something far more rewarding—a purpose driven by compassion and selflessness.

For him, true attention isn’t about being seen—it’s about making a difference, one rescue at a time.