Empowering the Impossible: A Seminar with Keya Hatkar
Sri Prakash Vidyaniketan, 7th January 2025
Sri Prakash Vidyaniketan, a prestigious CBSE-affiliated institution renowned for nurturing young minds, hosted an inspiring seminar by a remarkable guest, Ms. Keya Hatkar. Nation’s Best Selling Child Author Ms. Keya Hatkar who flipped impossible to I’m possible had an invaluable interaction with Prakashites. 14-year-old Keya is the recipient of the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025. She is a national & global award winning, young Author of 3 best sellers from Mumbai, India. Keya is one of the top 30 Global Disability Inclusion Advocates, a TEDx Speaker, self trained hand & digital Artist, Coder, Podcaster & a YouTuber.
At just 14 years old, Keya is a beacon of hope and resilience, having accomplished extraordinary feats despite immense challenges. Her visit left an indelible mark on our students, reminding them of the power of perseverance and determination.
Keya is a celebrated author, entrepreneur, and advocate for rare diseases. Her best-selling book, I M POSSIBLE, earned her India’s No.1 Best-Selling Author Award at Bribooks NYAF 2023-24, while her second book, Dancing on My Wheels, won the Best Entrepreneur Author Award. She has been recognized with accolades such as The Times of India People’s Choice Award, the Language Writer Award, and a Bronze Award at The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition. In 2025, she received the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar from President Droupadi Murmu, solidifying her status as a national icon.
During the seminar, Keya shared her deeply moving journey. Diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) at just four months old, she faced severe physical limitations. SMA, a rare genetic disorder, leads to progressive muscle weakness, affecting fundamental abilities like walking, sitting, or even holding one’s head. Despite these challenges, Keya’s spirit remained unyielding, thanks to the unwavering support of her mother, who spearheaded crowd funding initiatives for her treatment.
Keya’s life story is not just one of overcoming obstacles but of creating opportunities. She recounted her school days, especially her participation in a dance competition while using a wheelchair, which inspired her book Dancing on My Wheels. Her English teacher played a pivotal role, identifying her literary talent and encouraging her to channel her emotions through writing.
A significant aspect of Keya’s journey is the unshakeable bond she shares with her mother, a single parent supported by Keya’s grandparents. Her mother’s relentless dedication and belief in her abilities laid the foundation for Keya’s extraordinary achievements. Together, they founded I M POSSIBLE & SMAART, NGOs dedicated to raising awareness and funds for families impacted by SMA and other rare conditions. These initiatives exemplify Keya’s determination to give back to society and foster a supportive community.
Keya also shared her inspiring interactions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who lauded her efforts and encouraged her to persevere. The Hon’ble Prime Minister directed the Ministry of Women and Child Development to translate her books into regional languages, aiming to increase awareness of rare diseases across India. Keya’s advocacy extends to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking affordable access to life-saving medications for SMA patients.
The seminar resonated deeply with the students and staff of Sri Prakash Vidyaniketan. Keya’s powerful message—“Don’t let your disabilities hide your abilities”—left everyone reflecting on their own potential and the importance of resilience. She encouraged students to embrace reading as a tool for personal growth and solace.
The event concluded with a spirited chant of “I M POSSIBLE,” led by Keya herself. The energy in the room was electric, as students vowed to carry forward her message of hope and determination.
Sri Prakash Vidyaniketan is honoured to have hosted such an extraordinary individual, whose journey inspires us to break barriers and envision a brighter future.