Thirteen year old Pune artist Dhriti Pranay Ranka, a student of Bishop’s School, Kalyani Nagar, has been awarded the Divyang Bal Balika Award on the occasion of National Disability Day, marking a significant moment for inclusive art practices in the city. Dhriti, who has Down syndrome, received the award for her expressive artwork and her role in promoting awareness and inclusion through creativity. The ceremony, held on December 3, saw her walking up to the dais waving cheerfully, drawing smiles from the audience. She was also given a special mention by the President during the address. “I was happy and excited,” Dhriti said, describing how she felt while receiving the award. Dhriti began drawing as a very young child, even before she could speak. Her inspiration came from her parents, both architects, who introduced her to creative spaces early on. Over time, art became her primary form of expression. “My process is mainly with music,” Dhriti explained. “It’s about feelings I cannot show in words.” One of her most personal artworks emerged during a difficult …