~ The book carries forewords by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Swami Sarvapriyananda ~
Kolkata, 5th February 2026: Marking a notable moment in the city’s literary calendar, debut novelist Kartikeya Vajpai unveiled his book The Unbecoming in Kolkata, a city where literature and spirituality have long shared a sacred dialogue. Hosted in the City of Joy, renowned for its enduring intellectual ferment, contemplative traditions, and reverence for the written word, the book launch brought together an eclectic turnout of writers, scholars, and avid readers to engage deeply with the novel’s philosophical themes. Published by Penguin Random House India, the unveiling at the iconic Oxford Bookstore unfolded as an intimate and contemplative exchange, with Jimmy Tangree, Head – 91.9 Friends FM in conversation with Kartikeya Vajpai. The session was also graced by veteran actor and author Mr. Barun Chanda, whose presence added further gravitas and literary resonance to the evening. The dialogue created an atmosphere of quiet reflection and introspection, echoing Kolkata’s timeless legacy as a meeting ground of thought, faith, and literary expression, while mirroring the novel’s own philosophical depth.
The book carries forewords by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Swami Sarvapriyananda, whose contributions were referenced during the evening as affirmations of the book’s spiritual and philosophical authority, situating it within a living tradition of inner enquiry and compassion.
Speaking at the launch, author Kartikeya Vajpai said, “The Unbecoming is rooted in the understanding that much of our suffering comes from clinging to identities shaped by fear and expectation. It is basically the only thing that limits you as an individual. So, be formless, thoughtless and liberate yourself from your self-created image and the perceptions others impose upon you. Unbecoming is a quiet return, an invitation to allow life to reveal its purpose rather than imposing one upon it. In modern life, inner enquiry is essential. It allows us to act with clarity while remaining grounded in presence and awareness.”
On Detachment, Kartikeya added, “Maya works through two forces – fear and greed. Both pull our attention away. Detachment is not withdrawal, but the return of attention to what is real.” The conversation which captivated the audience, reflected on the central themes explored in the book like identity, inner clarity, purpose, and the process of unbecoming. The discussion examined contemporary ambition, resilience, and the modern search for meaning, emphasising the importance of introspection in navigating an increasingly restless world. The audience responded with attentive engagement, underscoring the resonance of the themes discussed.
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