Living with extra chromosomes

Living with an extra chromosome

Down syndrome cannot stop anyone from achieving their dreams, and Madhumati Indalkar is a beautiful example of that. Madhumati has her own unique talents and passions that make her shine in her own way. She loves to dance, draw, play, and exercise every day, embracing life with energy, curiosity, and joy. Her determination, focus, and love for sports led her to the Special Olympics Asia Pacific Games 2013 held in Newcastle, Australia. Madhumati competed in the bocce event, where she earned a silver medal for India. Beyond the medal, what makes her journey remarkable is the way she enjoyed every part of the process.

Mrunal
October 6, 2025

Boss Naari: Tell us about that special moment when you won the silver medal at the Special Olympics, how did it all happen?

Madhumati: In 2013, I participated in the Special Olympics, where I won a silver medal in the bocce game. I was very happy to receive it. For the game, I went to Newcastle, Australia, with special kids like me, without my family. After I secured the silver medal, my family welcomed me at the airport when I returned to India, and they were very happy for me.

Boss Naari: Was this your first time travelling abroad? How was the experience of going without your parents?

Madhumati: Yes, I had gone alone, but my friend Gauri was with me. Earlier, I had travelled abroad with my parents. This time, parents were not allowed to come, if they wished they were supposed to travel on their own. The journey lasted about 10–15 days. I was not afraid at all. I was looking forward to everything, and I was very comfortable with Gauri and the other friends who were with me.

Madhumati holding her silver medal with pride.

Boss Naari: How did your journey in bocce begin, and what was the experience like getting selected for the Special Olympics?

Madhumati: First, I tried to play badminton and basketball, but later I started playing bocce. My parents helped me learn the rules, and we practiced a lot. Then there was a selection round in the regional level, then another level, and after that, I got a chance to go to Australia.

I enjoyed going to the games and playing. I liked being with my friends, meeting people, and doing all the activities. I was focused on my game and wanted to play well and be closer to the ball. I liked travelling to Hyderabad and other places, going with my friend Gauri, sharing the AC compartment in the train, and being with my coach. I enjoyed the whole process, playing, travelling, and being together with everyone.

Madhumati dancing her heart out.

Boss Naari: How did you practice for bocce, and what was your daily routine like?

Madhumati: The journey was very exciting. Every day in the morning, before going to school, I used to get up and go to the terrace with my grandfather. He taught me the rules of the game. At first, it took me some time to understand. I learned that I didn’t just have to throw the ball, I had to get it closer to the queen ball than the others to score points.

Once I understood that, we started practicing throws from longer distances and different angles to improve. I used to practice every morning and also in the evening after coming back from school. We did this for almost one and a half to two months before I started competing.

Madhumati in Hanbok dress.

Boss Naari: Can you tell us about your daily routine, Madhumati? What do you usually do in a day?

Madhumati: I wake up very early and have my green tea. Then I get ready for the gym and do a one-hour workout with my personal trainer. After that, I come back and relax for a bit. Then I do my household chores like watering plants, putting clothes to dry, arranging utensils, and using the dishwasher.

After chores, I have breakfast and spend some time on my hobbies. I enjoy dancing, singing, or playing instruments like my Casio keyboard and ukulele. In the afternoon, I relax a little, and in the evening, I go to my grandparents’ house to help them a bit. Later, I go out for a walk, meet people in the society, and interact with them. In the evening, I watch a movie on TV, and then my day is done.

Madhumati with her younger brother.

Boss Naari: Do you practice any dance or other activities regularly?

Madhumati: I go for about four classes a week. I have a very busy schedule. I used to go for Bharatanatyam training regularly. I have been learning Bharatanatyam since I was nine years old. I had to take a break during COVID, so I haven’t restarted yet, but I’m a trained dancer and have been doing it for many years.

Disclaimer: Some answers are Madhumati’s, and some are shared by her parents to reflect her experiences and perspective.