Lakshmi Panda

About the Book

A TRUE, UNTOLD AND GRIPPING TALE OF LAXMI PANDA, A COURAGEOUS CHILD SPY IN THE INDIAN NATIONAL ARMY DURING WORLD WAR II.

Laxmi Panda: The INA Spy is a riveting journey through the tumultuous World War II era. Born into poverty and chaos in 1930s, Burma, young Laxmi's life takes an unexpected turn when both her railroad worker parents are killed in a bomb attack. Fuelled by vengeance and a one-point agenda. She braves rejection and earns her place as the youngest soldier in the Rani Laxmi Bai Regiment of the Indian National Army.

Under the guidance of Netaji Subash Chandra Bose himself, Laxmi transforms from a determined girl into a formidable spy, mastering the art of espionage and survival. With her small frame and sharp wit, she navigates treacherous landscapes, risking everything to gather vital intelligence against the British. From daring escapes to heart-pounding encounters, Laxmi's journey is fraught with danger and uncertainty. Yet, amidst the chaos of war, she discovers her own resilience and courage, fighting not just for her country but also for her own sense of justice.

A must-read story, previously untold, of a forgotten hero whose bravery and sacrifice make for an important part of Indian history. Written by Savie Karnel, author of The Nameless God, Laxmi Panda's tale is one of adventure, intrigue and the enduring spirit of youth in the face of adversity.

About the Author

Savie Karnel is the author of the critically acclaimed book The Nameless God. It was voted the most popular children's book on Amazon India in 2021 and was shortlisted for the Bangalore Literature Festival Book Prize in the same year. It was the only children's book shortlisted for the MAMI Mumbai Film Festival's Words to Screen Options Market in 2023.

Savie spent her childhood in the coastal town of Karwar. Before transitioning to children's writing, she worked as a journalist for The New Indian Express, Mid-Day and Talk Magazine in Bangalore. When she is not writing or brainstorming plots, she enjoys traveling and listening to stories from people she meets. She currently resides in Kolkata with her husband, son and two indie dogs.