Divyang Special: Tickle Your Art Wins Hearts and Investment on Shark Tank India

In a heartwarming special episode dedicated to entrepreneurs with disabilities, Shark Tank India showcased businesses that prioritize inclusivity and innovation. This “Divyang Special” episode aimed to highlight individuals who are breaking barriers and creating opportunities for those with disabilities.

One such business that stood out was Tickle Your Art, a brand that combines creativity with social impact.

Tickle Your Art was founded by architect Shweta Runwal and her daughters, Dhriti and Ira Ranka. Their story is deeply personal and inspiring.

Dhriti, who has Down syndrome, has always had a love for art. Recognizing her talent, Shweta decided to blend her architectural expertise with Dhriti’s artistic skills, creating a brand that celebrates creativity while empowering individuals with disabilities.

What Does Tickle Your Art Sell?

The brand specializes in high-end lifestyle products featuring artwork created by artists with Down syndrome. Their product range includes:

• Stationery
• Jewelry
• Home decor
• Corporate gifts
• Personalized accessories

Each item carries a story, making it more than just a product, it’s a statement of inclusivity and empowerment.

Click here to visit their website: Tickle Your Art

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Since its launch in October 2020, Tickle Your Art has experienced steady growth.

Annual Sales

• FY23-24: ₹10 lakh
• FY24-25 (Projected): ₹20 lakh

Despite being a niche business, the brand has gained recognition and appreciation for its unique concept.

Seeking ₹21.3 lakh for 7% equity, the founders stepped into the Shark Tank India stage, hoping to gain investment and mentorship.

From the moment the pitch began, the sharks were visibly moved by the brand’s story and its mission.

Namita Thapar was so impressed by the jewelry designs that she immediately removed her earrings to wear the ones gifted by the founders.

She expressed a strong desire to mentor the brand, believing in its potential and impact.

Anupam Mittal, captivated by the concept of the “Kind Eye” pendant, admired the brand’s unique approach to jewelry. “You girls are the most beautiful things I have seen in my entire life.” His heartfelt words resonated with the entire panel, emphasizing how deeply the pitch had affected him.

Aman Gupta immediately matched the investment ask, showing confidence in the business.

Despite being a business-first investor, Aman saw the potential in Tickle Your Art, believing that its social impact could translate into a strong brand identity.

As the discussion progressed, multiple sharks showed interest in supporting the brand, but only a few moved forward with offers.

Srikant Bolla, though moved by the brand’s mission, admitted that he didn’t see a clear business model.

Instead of investing, he pledged to make a donation, ensuring that the company continues to grow and create an impact.

After considering all offers, the founders requested that Anupam Mittal and Aman Gupta invest together. The final deal was sealed at, ₹21.3 lakh for 7% equity.

This partnership not only provided financial backing but also ensured that the brand receives valuable mentorship.

1. Strong Emotional Connect: The brand’s mission of empowering artists with disabilities resonated deeply with the sharks.
2. Unique Product Offering: The combination of art and lifestyle products created a strong differentiation factor.
3. Scalability Potential: While niche, the brand had room to expand into new product categories and markets.

1. A business with a social impact can still be profitable.
2. A unique brand story can help a company stand out in a competitive market.
3. Investment isn’t just about money, it’s about mentorship and guidance.

With funding secured, the brand can now scale its operations and increase its reach.

Some key areas they are likely to focus on:

• Expanding online presence through e-commerce platforms.
• Strengthening production capacity to meet growing demand.
• Collaborating with more artists with disabilities to increase product diversity.

The Shark Tank India deal has provided the momentum needed to take Tickle Your Art to the next level.

Tickle Your Art’s pitch was more than just a business proposal—it was a movement toward inclusivity and empowerment.

While securing a deal on Shark Tank India was a major milestone, the real victory lies in the awareness and support they have garnered for their cause.