Dubai artist Sharan Budhrani has spent years living with muscular dystrophy, but his condition has not stopped him from creating art and writing poetry. Now 36, he is sharing his experience in a book called Chasing Kites, due to launch on 6 November. His message is about determination, creativity and refusing to let disability define a person's ambitions.

The details

Dubai-born artist and poet Sharan Budhrani is preparing to launch a book documenting his life with muscular dystrophy, a degenerative condition that gradually weakens the body's muscles.

Diagnosed at the age of nine, he began using a wheelchair at 16 and later required a tracheostomy to assist his breathing.

Despite significant physical challenges, he continued developing his creative interests, including painting, writing and poetry.

His book, Chasing Kites, explores his childhood, experiences of bullying, mental health struggles and the role art has played in helping him express himself.

The work was developed over seven years with writer Margot de Ruiter Hooykaas and includes contributions from people close to him.

Sharan was previously recognised with a UAE golden visa for his cultural contributions.

He also developed his artistic practice through Mawaheb, a Dubai studio that supports creative opportunities for adults with disabilities.

The book is scheduled for launch at Mawaheb on 6 November.

His story brings attention to disability inclusion while offering an unusually personal account of persistence and creativity.