Ambika is an illustrator, Bharatnatyam dancer and a children’s workshop facilitator from Pune, India.

She enjoys working in digital, traditional and-mixed media styles, drawn to nature, wildlife, and the world around her, she also brings cultural themes and subtle humour into her artwork.

Some of her illustrated books include Is that a KudKud Kumbha?, Ila, my wild mongoose friend, Look at the colours of life written by Ruskin Bond and more.

Her selected clients include Penguin Random House, Hachette Book Group, Scholastic Press, Karadi Tales, Talking Cub (Speaking Tiger Books), Red Panda (Westland Books), AdiDev Press, Kalpavriksh Kids Books, Room to Read, Current Conservation Magazine, ZooBoo Books, Ektara Trust, Jaya He Museum (Mumbai International Airport).

Email: ambika.karandikar@gmail.com
Instagram: @girlwithgreenmind

Awards & Recognition

2025 - Green Honour Book Awards, Longlist (Is that a KudKud Kumbha?)

2025 - Jarul Book Awards (student voice & choice), Shortlist (Is that a KudKud Kumbha)

2021 - Toka Box, Top South Asian Children’s Books Board Book (What shape would you be?)