Picture an Indian-American storyteller weaving tales that bridge cultures and spark imaginations—meet Nidhi Chanani! Born in Calcutta and raised in sunny California, this freelance illustrator, cartoonist, and writer has captured hearts with her vibrant graphic novels and picture books. Her debut, Pashmina, not only won critical acclaim but also landed a Netflix adaptation, proving her stories resonate far beyond the page.
Chanani’s journey is a testament to chasing dreams with grit and joy. From doodling as a child to being honored as a Champion of Change by the Obama Administration in 2012, her path is as colorful as her illustrations. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this creative powerhouse!
The Making of Nidhi Chanani
Nidhi Chanani was born in Kolkata, India, in 1980 and moved to Southern California at just four months old. Growing up, she soaked in Bollywood films and Indian breakfasts, blending her heritage with American life. After earning a literature degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz, she tried her hand at nonprofits, but her love for drawing wouldn’t let go. In 2008, she enrolled in art school, only to drop out a year later, feeling constrained by formal training. Instead, she launched Every Day Love in 2009, creating one illustration daily for three years. This practice honed her whimsical, heartfelt style and kicked off her career.
Nidhi Chanani’s Unforgettable Stories
Chanani’s work is a vibrant tapestry of magical realism, cultural identity, and everyday moments. Her debut graphic novel, Pashmina (2017), follows Priyanka, a first-generation Indian-American teen, as she uncovers her family’s history through a magical shawl. Praised by Publishers Weekly and the New York Times, it earned a spot as a Junior Library Guild Selection and a YALSA Top Ten Graphic Novel. Its Netflix adaptation, announced in 2019, promised to bring Priyanka’s journey to life, though the project was later canceled.
Her second graphic novel, Jukebox (2021), co-created with her husband, Nick Giordano, explores time travel and music, earning a Texas Maverick Graphic Novel nod. Chanani also shines in picture books like I Will Be Fierce (2019), illustrated for Bea Birdsong, which celebrates courage, and Binny’s Diwali (2020), a joyful ode to the Hindu festival of lights. Her bilingual board book, Shubh Raatri Dost/Good Night Friend (2019), reflects her knack for inclusive storytelling. Using digital media, watercolors, and wood burning, Chanani’s art pops with warmth and wonder.
Her stories often draw from her Indian heritage and first-generation experiences, weaving themes of self-discovery and family ties. Whether it’s a magical pashmina or a Diwali celebration, Chanani’s work invites readers to embrace their roots and dream big.
Why Nidhi Chanani Matters
Nidhi Chanani’s impact stretches beyond her books. As an instructor at the California College of the Arts, she inspires budding comic artists. Her Every Day Love Art prints adorn shops across California, spreading joy in everyday moments. Recognized by the Obama Administration, her work amplifies South Asian voices in children’s literature, offering representation for young readers navigating dual identities. Her media appearances on PBS and CNN’s Anderson Cooper 360 highlight her growing influence.
Chanani’s stories resonate because they’re personal yet universal, blending humor, heart, and heritage. She’s a beacon for aspiring creators, proving that passion and persistence can turn dreams into reality.
- About Nidhi Chanani
- Born: 1980 in Kolkata, India
- Key Works: Pashmina, Jukebox, I Will Be Fierce, Binny’s Diwali
- Awards: 2017 Virginia Library Association Graphic Diversity Award, 2018 South Asia Book Award
- Fun Fact: She’s a frequent Disney Parks artist!
Snag Pashmina or Binny’s Diwali and dive into Nidhi Chanani’s colorful, heartwarming world! Her stories are perfect for readers young and old who love a dash of magic and culture.