The Padmas: Fifty Stories of Perseverance Neha J. Hiranandani; Illustrations by David Yambem Penguin Random House Rs.399 Pages 104 The stories of 50 Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri awardees from all walks of life are written in this engaging compendium No matter what stage of life we may be at, positive role models are worthy of emulation. For children, personal encounter with or learning about inspiring role models can powerfully impact the course of their lives. Learning, or knowing about individuals who have made valuable contributions to society in a range of fields can invest children with enthusiasm to emulate their example. It can give them a sense of direction and determination, meaning and purpose as they transition to adolescence and adulthood. This well-crafted book serves this purpose brilliantly. Penned by author and columnist Neha J. Hiranandani and beautifully illustrated by animator and illustrator David Yambem, Fifty Stories of Perseverance narrates the heroic deeds of 50 exemplary Padma awardees — women and men from various parts of India who have been awarded one or the other of the three Padma awards (Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri) for notable contribution in different spheres of life and activity (with some having received more than one of the three Padma awards). In a span of two pages, readers are provided brief biographies of every awardee’s life (including, in several cases, reference to major challenges they faced and their response) and the significant achievement for which they were conferred a Padma award, with every biography accompanied by a delightful illustration. The 50 Padma awardees whose stories are included in this book are from across the country, and from diverse social backgrounds. They have made noteworthy contributions in numerous vocations and walks of life — social service, music, literature, animal welfare, education, science and technology and health. The stories of these extraordinary men and women are narrated in a straight-forward and endearing style so that not just children, but adults, too, can draw motivation and education from them. A compendium to grace every library, it’s a perfect gift for growing children. The Padmas is a great way to enable children to rise above the ordinary and serve the cause of the greater good in meaningful ways. One hopes this book will be followed by a comprehensive volume detailing the lives of all Padma awardees thus far. Yoginder Sikand
