Archive · 26 Dec 2025
Pune Teen Artist with Down Syndrome Wins National Honour
A 13-year-old girl named Dhriti from Pune, who has Down syndrome, won a big award for her art.
She loves to draw and paint, and her art helps her express her feelings.
Dhriti started an art group called Tickle Your Art when she was just eight years old to help other kids like her show their artwork.
Her mom and little sister also help with the group.
Dhriti wants people to know that everyone is special and can do what they love.
She even dreams of becoming a gymnast one day.
Her art group is going to open a special café where people with disabilities can work and everyone can enjoy art together.
Dhriti Pranay Ranka, a 13-year-old artist with Down syndrome, won the Divyang Bal Balika Award on National Disability Day.
She received the award for her expressive artwork and promoting inclusion through creativity.
Dhriti founded Tickle Your Art, an inclusive art initiative, at the age of eight.
Tickle Your Art now works with over 25 artists and plans to open an art café and community centre in February.
Dhriti's family, including her mother and younger sister, actively supports her journey and the initiative.
- Who
- Dhriti Pranay Ranka, a 13-year-old artist with Down syndrome from Pune
- What
- Received the Divyang Bal Balika Award for her artwork and promoting inclusion through art
- When
- December 3, on National Disability Day
- Where
- Pune, India
- Why
- For her expressive artwork and role in promoting awareness and inclusion through creativity
- Name
- Dhriti Pranay Ranka
- Age
- 13
- School
- Bishop’s School, Kalyani Nagar
- Award
- Divyang Bal Balika Award
- Initiative
- Tickle Your Art
- Artists Involved
- 25+
- Upcoming Project
- Art café and community centre in Kalyani Nagar