Books: The book of dreams that never die

Chef Vikas Khanna’s successful documentary film on a 96-year-old woman finally going to school has now been released as an illustrated children’s story

“So many times, society puts barriers on us and our creativity, forcing us to not think outside the norms. But, when someone rises against these norms and breaks those barriers and says that true happiness comes when you do what you love the most, then that story and the person become an inspiration for others. And, that’s why I decided to tell the story of 96-year-old Karthyayani Amma in the form of an illustrated book for children,” said award-winning Michelin star chef, celebrated filmmaker and author Vikas Khanna while releasing the book Barefoot Empress on Children’s Day—which also happened to be his 51st birthday.

Award-winning Michelin star chef, celebrated filmmaker and author Vikas Khanna

Barefoot Empress revolves around the remarkable journey of Karthyayani Amma, who, having never had access to education as a girl, finally gets her chance to study at the age of 96

With the release of the book, Khanna hopes to inspire children and have them respect and understand their elders