Dink & Donate Pickleball Fundraiser: Picklebay, India’s first pickleball platform, and the India Autism Center came together to host ‘Dink & Donate’, the country’s first pickleball fundraiser for autism inclusion, on Sunday at Ballygunge Arena, Kolkata. The event raised ₹8 lakhs, which was donated to support autism awareness, research, and inclusive programs.
The event began with a special coaching session for individuals on the autism spectrum and their caregivers. Led by trained coaches, the session took place in a safe and welcoming space, helping participants feel supported and included.
Pickleball for a Cause
After the coaching session, over 100 players from the wider pickleball community joined in a 3-category Open Doubles tournament, featuring Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles matches. Each participant paid a ₹2,000 registration fee, with all money going to the India Autism Center.
Sponsors like Biskfarm, RBL Bank, Marga, and others also helped raise funds. The total amount collected, including sponsorships, came to ₹8 lakhs.
Jaishankar Natarajan, Chief Executive Officer of India Autism Center, said,
“At the India Autism Center, we believe sports like pickleball play a crucial role in building an inclusive community—on and off the field. We sincerely thank Picklebay for their unwavering support in creating a more inclusive space for individuals with autism.”
Voices from the Court
The event was attended by Shivika Burman, a former Fed Cup player, Asian Games 2010 team member, and now Director of The Tennis Tree.
Shivika Burman said,
“This event is a beautiful reminder that by coming together we create spaces where every individual with a disability can thrive. I am truly honored to join hands with the India Autism Center and Picklebay in supporting such a vital cause.”
The day also held deep meaning for families. Priyanka Arora, mother of Om Arora from Marga Wellness, shared her thoughts:
“This is the first time Om has been formally invited to participate in a sport. He’s always been curious and eager to try different sports. We’re truly grateful to the India Autism Center and Picklebay for creating such opportunities. We look forward to being part of more initiatives like this in the future.”
A Step Towards Inclusion
Siddhant Jatia, Founder of Picklebay, spoke about the goal behind the event.
“Pickleball is a sport that builds community, connection, and joy—and we believe those are powerful tools in creating inclusive spaces. Partnering with IAC allows us to channel that power for a meaningful cause. This event helped break stigmas and foster empathy through action.”
Through paddle games and teamwork, participants showed how sports can connect people from different walks of life. The event sent a clear message: inclusion is not just a dream—it’s something we can achieve together.
News in Brief: Dink & Donate Pickleball Fundraiser
Picklebay and India Autism Center hosted ‘Dink & Donate’, India’s first pickleball fundraiser for autism, in Kolkata. With over 100 players and ₹8 lakhs raised, the event promoted inclusion, broke stigma, and supported autism awareness through sport. Families, coaches, and players joined in creating a welcoming, united space.