Ekata Mandal is an Indian Illustrator from Kolkata, based in Kalimpong. Her grandfather was a fine-artist, inspiring her love of painting. As a child, Ekata loved watching cartoons, animation films and looking through children's books.

She graduated with a degree in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology and subsequently, worked as a medical coder. However, she eventually discovered the world of children's publishing and In 2021, Ekata created her first picture book in India.

Ekata brings stories to life through the messy, expressive strokes of watercolor, colored pencils and pastels. Her work is inspired by the quiet magic of everyday life, warm memories of childhood, gentle emotions, old classics, tiny wonders of nature, fleeting expressions, and the world as seen through a child’s eyes. Rooted in the art of noticing, Ekata’s illustrations reflect a deep sensitivity to detail, emotion, and imagination. With every piece, she creates warm, whimsical worlds where young readers can feel seen, inspired, and at home.

Ekata has worked on 10 titles. Her illustrated book A Blanket for Snow, written by Andre Louw was recognized by The Extensive Reading Foundation for the 2026 Language Learner Literature Award in the Young Learners Category. Her specially curated works were exhibited at the 10th Annual Postcard Show at Gallery Nucleus in Portland in 2025. Her works will also be part of the 2026 Postcard show. 

Currently, Ekata is working on her own stories as an author-illustrator and hopes to create stories children will cherish.

 Whenever she is not working at her desk, Ekata is traveling and enjoying the serenity of the mountains with her cat, Luna.

Publications - 

As You Grew - Dana Moneymaker - Blue Balloon books, an imprint of Ballast Books

The Hawks Need Their Friends - Latoyah Innerarity - FFT education 

GRANDES HISTÓRIAS PARA VIAJANTES Coletânea de Contos Tradicionais - Mariana Machado - Raminho Publishing House

Urma and the Three Tigers - Asha Sandler - Benchmark education

The Ugly Duckling - BJU Press

A Blanket for Snow - Andre Louw- Caves books 

Frog’s Festive Party - Laura Appleton-Smith - Flyleaf Publishing

Yaya’s Yellow Yarn - Laura Appleton-Smith - Flyleaf Publishing

In Daniel’s Shoes - Leslie Kimmelman - Apple and Honey Press, an imprint of Behrman Publishing House (Publication on November, 2026)

Abba Ki Topi - Ongoing - Room to Read India

Instagram: ekatamandalillustration

Portfolio or website: www.ekatamandal.com