Bonanza V-35 pilot reported altitude deviation in severe turbulence while in IMC.

Narrative

Severe turbulence was experienced on our flight from ZZZ to ZZZ1. We were navigating around areas of concentrated precipitation for the first 100 miles of our flight and had been working with ZZZ Center for deviations left and right of the weather. Conditions were IMC at the moment we experienced severe turbulence and a strong updraft causing our indicated airspeed to increase rapidly and uncontrollably. This resulted in myself immediately disengaging the autopilot; reducing power; and pitching the airplane for maneuvering speed. The immediate and significant winds required these actions to maintain safety for the airplane and its crew. Immediately; ZZZ Center was in contact asking about my indicated altitude; and reported that I was showing 400 ft. above assigned altitude of 8;000 ft. I responded and explained the updraft; and requested 9;000 ft. The controller worked with me to give me the requested altitude which brought us right near the tops of that cloud and reduced the turbulence to a safe level. The controller then advised neighboring aircraft of our report; and after ensuring everyone on board was safe; the controller mentioned that he would file an incident report. All actions occurred in a very timely manner; and the corrective actions taken by myself; and the controller were necessary to maintain safety of the airplane.