Bhangra Boogie by Hena Khan

A heartwarming picture book about finding your courage—with a little help from someone who loves you.

Talia longs to move like the graceful bhangra dancers at her cousin’s mehndi celebration—Bend! Twirl! Snap! But when the music plays and the crowd gathers, her anxiety takes over, and her feet won’t follow her heart. That is, until her beloved Dadi (grandmother) steps in with warmth, encouragement, and maybe a few dance moves of her own.

Written by acclaimed author Hena Khan and brought to life with bold, joyful illustrations by Sandhya Prabhat, Dancing at the Mehndi is a beautifully told intergenerational story about shyness, cultural pride, and the special bond between a girl and her grandmother.

Why families love this book:

• Celebrates South Asian traditions and festivities
• Offers a gentle, relatable story about overcoming social anxiety
• Encourages kids to be brave and try new things
• Includes a helpful glossary of cultural terms
• A perfect read-aloud for classrooms, libraries, and family gatherings

Dancing at the Mehndi is an inspiring and vibrant picture book about self-confidence, family, and joyful celebration, making it a meaningful gift for Eid, Diwali, birthdays, or any special moment.