Anita Bio Photo

Anita Jari Kharbanda

Texas, USA

Anita Kharbanda is an Indian-American engineer by trade, and a storyteller by heart. She lives in North Texas with her loving husband and two sons. An avid lifelong reader of all kinds of fiction, she revels in seeing her children do the same.

The healing power of letters filled with family history inspired Anita to start writing. She now writes the kinds of stories she’s devoured through the years, with one difference. She promised herself she’d write stories about the characters she dreamed of seeing in books growing up, and lift the voices of those who go unheard.

Lioness of Punjab is her debut YA historical fiction.

Bookography:

Lioness of Punjab (Young Adult, 2022; Yali Books/Sambasivan & Parikh)

Visit Anita's Website
  • If you could be a character in a children's book, who would you be?

    I would definitely be the brave and inspiring Mai Bhago in Lioness of Punjab! I mean, wouldn't you?

  • Describe your creative space and routine.

    I have a private study where I am inspired to write. Next to my study desk is a leaning wall shelf with a copy of Lioness of Punjab and framed book accolades. There are also photos with my family, trinkets my children have made me, and framed paintings of Mata Kheevi and the Chhotey Sahibzadey by Anantjeet Kaur, the cover artist of Lioness of Punjab.

  • What is your favorite creative fuel?

    Water! And chai or coffee, depending on my mood. :)