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Books That Leave a Mark: Bold Voices, Big Questions, and Unforgettable Journeys

Penguin presents a dynamic collection of books that journey across borders, explore the depths of history, nature, war, and identity, and reimagine mythology, leadership, and legacy. Whether you’re looking to reflect, escape, or be inspired, there’s a book waiting to meet you.

Missions, Mantras, Migrants and Microchips by Leonard A. Gordon
An epic chronicle of the Indo-US relationship from the 18th century to the tech-powered present, this deeply researched work offers a fresh perspective on a bond that shapes global politics and pop culture alike. Gordon brings to light both celebrated and unsung figures who have shaped this powerful connection.

Front Cover Missions, Mantras, Migrants and Microchips
Missions, Mantras, Migrants and Microchips || Leonard A. Gordon

 

 

Sacred by Vasudha Rai
A gorgeously curated compendium of 52 sacred plants from across India, Sacred blends ecology, mysticism, and wellness into a single volume. From the spiritual aura of the rudraksha to the healing essence of jasmine, this book invites readers to reconnect with nature through rituals, recipes, and reverence.

Front Cover Sacred
Sacred || Vasudha Rai

 

 

Letters From Gaza 
A hauntingly beautiful anthology that captures the lived reality of war through poetry, letters, and monologues. Thirty voices from Gaza give shape to loss, love, fear, and resilience—making this a necessary and urgent read that humanizes headlines and brings heart to global tragedy.

Front Cover Letters From Gaza
Letters From Gaza || Various Authors

 

 

Sing, Dance and Lead by Hindol Sengupta
A unique blend of spiritual philosophy and modern leadership strategy, this book revisits the teachings of ISKCON founder Srila Prabhupada to offer timeless lessons in inspiration, integrity, and influence. A must-read for professionals and seekers alike.

Front Cover Sing, Dance And Lead
Sing, Dance And Lead || Hindol Sengupta

 

Telecom Wars by Deepali Gupta
Go behind the scenes of India’s telecom revolution in this fast-paced account of ambition, innovation, and corporate conflict. Deepali Gupta brings to life the billion-voice battle that redefined communication and transformed the Indian economy.

Front Cover Telecom Wars
Telecom Wars || Deepali Gupta

 

 

Mahabharata 2025 by Divyansh Mundra
What if the ancient war wasn’t a myth, but a prophecy? In this high-octane fantasy thriller, a social media influencer discovers he holds the key to an epic battle foretold by the gods. A gripping reimagination of mythology for the digital age.

Front Cover Mahabharat 2025
Mahabharat 2025 || Divyansh Mundra

 

 

What’s Your Price, Mr. Shivaswamy? by M.R. Dattathri
Retirement was supposed to be peaceful—until Shivaswamy finds himself caught between crooked builders and moral dilemmas. A sharp, satirical, and heartfelt novel set in Bengaluru, this story asks: how much would you sacrifice for peace of mind?

Front Cover What’s Your Price, Mr. Shivaswamy?
What’s Your Price, Mr. Shivaswamy || M.R. Dattathri

 

 

Honest John by Bakhtiar K. Dadabhoy
The forgotten architect of India’s economic institutions returns to the spotlight in this detailed biography of John Matthai. A statesman, scholar, and reformer, Matthai’s story is essential reading for anyone interested in the making of modern India.

Front Cover Honest John
Honest John || Bakhtiar Dadabhoy

 

 

Delhi Disco by Shikhar Goyal
Love, nightlife, and a touch of noir collide in this quirky, pulsing debut about a DJ, a Delhi club, and a spiraling mystery. Delhi Disco is a genre-blending romp through music, heartbreak, and millennial chaos.

Front Cover Delhi Dicso
Delhi Disco || Shikhar Goyal

 

 

This American Woman by Zarna Garg
Comedian Zarna Garg reflects on her journey from India to the US with warmth, wit, and sharp insight. For anyone who’s ever straddled two worlds or chased a dream with their whole heart—this one’s for you.

Front Cover This American Woman
This American Woman || Zarna Garg

 

Heart Lamp by Banu Mushtaq
A Booker-shortlisted collection of 12 stories spotlighting the lives of Muslim and Dalit women in South India. Deeply empathetic, richly metaphorical, and rooted in oral tradition.

Front Cover Heart Lamp
Heart Lamp || Banu Mushtaq

 

Songs Our Bodies Sing by Lindsay Pereira
Stories set at the intersection of East and West—from Bombay to London to Toronto—revealing how music, memory, and identity travel across continents.

Front Cover Songs Our Bodies Sing
Songs Our Bodies Sing || Lindsay Pereira

 

 

Gandhi: And the End of Nonviolence by Manash Firaq Bhattacharjee
An intellectual exploration of Gandhi’s philosophy during the Partition years. Urgent, rigorous, and deeply relevant to today’s political discourse.

Front Cover Gandhi- The End of Non-Violence
Gandhi- The End of Non-Violence

 

A Glimpse of My Life by Ram Prasad Bismil
The jail-written memoir of a revolutionary icon—fierce, poetic, and surprisingly progressive in its reflections on caste, gender, and nationalism.

Front Cover A Glimpse of My Life
A Glimpse of My Life || Ram Prasad Bismil, Awadhesh Tripathi

 

The Dead Know Nothing by Kishore Ram
Murder disturbs the peace on a remote island in Kerala. Atmospheric and sharply written, this literary whodunit blends suspense with social insight.

Front Cover The Dead Know Nothing
The Dead Know Nothing || Kishore Ram

Lost in the Wilderness: A Christmas Eve Alone on Paradise Beach

An exciting recount of a Christmas spent backpacking. Read Below!

Today’s plan was simple and sorted: hike to Paradise Beach, pitch my tent there and spend Christmas Eve camping solo!

Anyone who has been to Gokarna cannot stop going gaga over Paradise Beach. They say it is so secluded that at night glowing phytoplankton make the shore look exactly like the starry sky. Covered with forested hills on all three sides, Paradise Beach is cut off from the nearby villages, Gokarna and Belekan, by dense shrubs. This makes the beach inaccessible by vehicles, and the only way to get there is to either hike all the way through the woods over the hills or take a boat from any of the adjoining beaches.

Front Cover Solo
Solo || Indrajeet More

 

Hiring a boat was out of question as it would eat up a good chunk of my given budget, so the only option left was to hike. Buckling up my backpack with high enthusiasm, I filled my water bottle and stocked up on four bananas for dinner. I first hitchhiked my way to Om Beach and then started hiking at around 5 pm. My aim was to reach there before it got dark. Acting all cool, I would occasionally track my route on Google Maps as the trail appeared to have faded in some parts. Slowly, the trail started to fade for a few metres and eventually vanished completely. I realised that it was taking a bit longer than I had calculated to reach my destination. Dubiously, I pulled out my phone to check the GPS and realised that I had been hiking in the wrong direction the whole time! The bloody GPS had lost its signal 500 metres back! “NOT AGAIN!” an instant bout of panic rushed through my body. I could see the sun going down, which made me even more anxious. I had no time to process any of this. I was in no mood to die in a forest without ever having sex or tasting baklava or even seeing a whale, just because I had lost the damned GPS signal!

My brain was whizzing away, trying to find a way out: “What options do I have? I could cry for help, but it was probably going to be futile because there was absolutely nobody around. Maybe I could camp in the forest? No way! Or…could I go back to the point where I lost the signal and start from there? Yes!”

I started running back as fast as I could, but the GPS still couldn’t latch onto a signal. By this point, I had totally forgotten about filming the vlog. I needed to find a way out of this mess urgently. Compelling my brain to not assume extreme scenarios, I started to think of a way out of the forest. Mindlessly, I started following the sound of the waves and began descending from the woods onto the rocks, hoping to find a path that parallelly ran to the rocky shore. It was a tough walk, especially with the heavy backpack on. There were times when the rocks were so steep that I had to ascend, fixing my toes and fingers in the cracks, while the gigantic waves crashed just a few feet apart. I didn’t know if that was the right way or the wrong one, but at that moment, I was operating solely on instinct. The red wash of the sky melting down into the ocean at the horizon strangely helped calm my racing heart.

There it finally was! Not more than 100 metres away, in the dark, this fine patch of sand nestled in a nook between the mountains. A grove of coconut trees swayed between the beach and the cliff. It would have made the perfect spot for hanging up a hammock and listening to some light Hindustani melodies. There were no shops or cafes here, but just one man, setting up some fruit on a tiny table. Paradise Beach was just like its name – nirvana, totally cut off from the rest of the world. How could anything be so perfect?

My wonderment was instantly ruined when I heard someone yell, “Abey chutiye, apna tent yahaan hain!” (Our tent is over here, you asshole!) a few metres away, to which another voice replied, “Susu karne ja raha hu! Aaega?” (I am going to take a leak; want to join?) It was a group of IT engineers from Bengaluru, occupying the coconut grove with twenty to thirty tents! My idea of solace broke into pieces. This was the last place I wished to see an engineer, and there they were in abundance, calling each other in slang, flashing torches, playing Bollywood music and peeing in corners.

 

There is no recreational activity left unexploited by the IT people as compensation to their presumably miserable jobs. I had seen the worst of them when I used to volunteer as a trek leader in 2016. You suppress a kid for years and leave them in a new city with a decent package. What else are they going to do? I really wanted to empathise with them, but when you trek for three hours carrying a heavy tent on your back, cross forests and climb rocks and see this, it becomes really hard to do that.

I walked to the other end of the beach, as far from the crowd as possible, at an elevated part of the cliff. As I started to unpack, the lamplight attracted many moths. To make matters worse, the bananas I had carried all this way had turned soggy. Sweaty and irritated, I managed to set up my campsite in whatever minimal light my head torch provided.

“Are you with them?” a guy asked as he collected dry wood a few feet apart, near his tent.

“Nope, camping solo,” I replied, as I pitched mine.

“Amazing, I am travelling solo too. I am from Kerala,” he said, and we shook hands. “Where are you from?”

“Mumbai,” I replied.

“Cool, let me know if you need anything, bro,” he said, as he continued collecting dry wood. We had the same tents – Quechua Arpenaz 100.

As I sat by the bonfire with the Kerala guy, we bonded over our shared disdain for the IT crowd who earned twice our salaries – myself with none. I recalled being taught that “man is a social animal” but the more I observed, the more I was puzzled by what happens when people gather. Individually, people are sharp and full of independent thought, but together, their collective intelligence seems to dilute into a less insightful version of itself. Their actions become something none of them would choose alone. It makes me wonder about the nature of group dynamics that blurs individual clarity—be it society meetings, religious gatherings, commuters, politicians, college reunions, kitty parties, corporate conventions or the neighbouring IT squad.

The Kerala guy pulled out his pouch and rolled a joint. We sat in silence, each on our own journey. It was 25 December. Merry Christmas to us.

Discover the Magic of Stories: A Journey Through New Children’s Books

Discover the Magic of Stories: A Journey Through New Children’s Books

There’s something truly special about the books we grow up with—the ones that transport us to faraway lands, introduce us to unforgettable characters, and fill our hearts with wonder. The latest collection of children’s books does just that, offering young readers a delightful mix of adventure, wisdom, humor, and heart. Whether it’s timeless folktales, stories of real-life heroes, or whimsical tales that spark laughter, these new releases promise to leave a lasting impression.

 

 

Folktales That Whisper Through the Ages

The Whispering Mountains: Greatest Himalayan Folktales
In the heart of the Himalayas, where the mountains hold secrets as old as time, stories have been passed down through generations. This enchanting collection brings together some of the most treasured folktales from the region, inviting young readers into a world of talking animals, mischievous spirits, and nature’s deep wisdom. Each tale is a glimpse into a culture rich with tradition and storytelling magic.

Front Cover The Whispering Mountains
The Whispering Mountains || Namita Gokhale, Malashri Lal

 

 

A Hero’s Journey: Inspiring Young Minds

Seeker of Truth: Kailash Satyarthi’s Fight to End Child Labour
Not all heroes wear capes. Some, like Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, dedicate their lives to fighting for justice. This powerful story introduces children to his inspiring journey, from standing up against child labor to rescuing thousands of children from bonded labor. It’s a book that ignites courage, compassion, and the belief that even one person can change the world.

Front Cover Seeker of Truth
Seeker of Truth || Srividhya Venkat

 

 

Whimsical Fun and Mischievous Adventures

The Silly Billy series brings laughter and chaos in equal measure. These books celebrate the joys (and troubles!) of childhood with stories that are both hilarious and heartwarming.

  • Agassi and the Great Cycle Race – Khyrunnisa A.: A madcap race where speed, strategy, and a whole lot of silliness collide!
  • Jumble Sale – Shabnam Minwalla: What happens when you try to sell your stuff and end up creating the world’s funniest mess?
  • Ghosts, Thieves and Aha! Adventures – Asha Nehemiah: A collection of delightfully absurd mysteries, perfect for curious young minds.
Front Cover Agassi and the Great Cycle Race (Silly Billy series)
Agassi and the Great Cycle Race (Silly Billy series) || Khyrunisa A.
Front Cover Jumble Sale
Jumble Sale || Shabnam Minwalla

 

Front Cover Ghosts, Thieves and Aha! Adventures
Ghosts, Thieves and Aha! Adventures || Asha Nehemiah

 

 

Tiny Books, Big Stories

The Hook Book series is all about bite-sized storytelling for young readers, making reading a joyful and effortless experience.

  • Zooni’s Alarm Clock – Vibha Batra: A charming tale about an inventive little girl who learns that sometimes, the best ideas come from the simplest places.
  • Wrestling Day – T. Keditsu: A lively, heartwarming story about tradition, resilience, and the unexpected lessons that come with stepping into the ring.
Front Cover Zooni’s Alarm Clock
Zooni’s Alarm Clock || Vibha Batra
Front Cover Wrestling Day
Wrestling Day || T. Keditsu

 

 

 

A Treasure Trove for Young Readers

These books are more than just stories—they are invitations to dream, to laugh, to wonder, and to believe in the magic of words. Whether your child loves thrilling adventures, meaningful true stories, or lighthearted fun, this collection has something for every little reader. Because at the end of the day, a great book is not just one that we read—it’s one that stays with us forever.

Which of these books will you pick up first? Let the reading adventures begin!

Essential Audiobooks to Celebrate Women’s Voices This Women’s Day

Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the achievements, resilience, and wisdom of women across the world. What better way to honor this day than by immersing yourself in stories and insights that highlight their journeys, struggles, and triumphs? Whether you’re looking for personal memoirs, feminist perspectives, or cultural narratives, here’s a list of audiobooks that are perfect for this special occasion.

1. Unfinished by Priyanka Chopra

A deeply personal and inspiring memoir, Unfinished takes you through the incredible journey of global icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas. From her childhood in India to her rise as an international star and philanthropist, this book is a testament to ambition, resilience, and the power of believing in oneself.

Front Cover Unfinished
Unfinished || Priyanka Chopra Jonas

 

2. Sita by Devdutt Pattanaik

A retelling of the Ramayana from Sita’s perspective, this audiobook presents her as a strong and independent figure, rather than just a victim of fate. Devdutt Pattanaik offers a refreshing look at this iconic character, making it a must-listen for those interested in mythology and feminist narratives.

Front Cover Sita
 Sita || Devdutt Pattanaik

 

3. Grandma’s Bag of Stories by Sudha Murty

Perfect for listeners of all ages, this collection of heartwarming tales by Sudha Murty brings back the nostalgia of childhood storytelling. Through simple yet powerful stories, she imparts wisdom, values, and a deep appreciation for Indian culture.

Front Cover Grandma's Bag of Stories
Grandma’s Bag of Stories || Sudha Murty

 

4. Sati Savitri by Devdutt Pattanaik

Devdutt Pattanaik brings to life the stories of legendary women like Sati, Savitri, and others from Indian mythology. These tales explore themes of devotion, courage, and sacrifice, shedding light on the evolving role of women in cultural narratives.

Front Cover Sati Savitri
Sati Savitri || Devdutt Pattanaik

 

5. Equal Yet Different by Anita Bhogle

An insightful audiobook that explores gender dynamics in the professional world, Equal Yet Different provides a practical guide to overcoming challenges and leveraging unique strengths. Anita Bhogle offers valuable perspectives on leadership, ambition, and the evolving role of women in various industries.

Front Cover Equal, yet Different
Equal, yet Different || Anita Bhogle

 

 

6. Seeing Like a Feminist by Nivedita Menon

For those looking for a thought-provoking read on feminism, Seeing Like a Feminist challenges societal norms and structures that define gender roles. Nivedita Menon’s sharp and engaging analysis makes this audiobook a must-listen for anyone interested in gender equality.

Front Cover Seeing Like A Feminist
Seeing Like A Feminist || Nivedita Menon

 

 

7. Dr. Cuterus by Tanaya Narendra

Dr. Tanaya Narendra, popularly known as Dr. Cuterus, brings a refreshing and informative take on women’s health in this audiobook. With humor and scientific accuracy, she debunks myths about reproductive health, sexuality, and overall well-being, making it an essential listen for every woman.

Front Cover Dr. Cuterus
Dr. Cuterus || Dr. Tanya Narendra

 

8. Treasures of Lakshmi by Namita Gokhale

This audiobook beautifully explores the mythology and symbolism of Goddess Lakshmi, representing abundance, prosperity, and feminine power. Namita Gokhale’s storytelling weaves together history, devotion, and cultural insights, making it a fascinating listen.

Front Cover Treasures of Lakshmi
Treasures of Lakshmi || Namita Gokhale

 

Why Audiobooks?

In today’s fast-paced world, audiobooks provide an accessible way to absorb knowledge and inspiration while commuting, exercising, or simply relaxing. These stories and perspectives serve as powerful reminders of the strength, wisdom, and contributions of women across history and modern society.

This Women’s Day, let’s celebrate by listening, learning, and empowering ourselves through these incredible audiobooks.

Savarkar: The Man, The Myth, The Controversy

Here’s an excerpt that captures the essence of Savarkar’s bold critique!

Front Cover The New Icon
The New Icon || Arun Shourie

The Uber-Mother

The fact is that having regarded the cow to be our mother, Savarkar wrote, over time she came to be accorded a status even higher than that of a mother.4 The milk of both is drinkable. But in the case of the cow, its panchgavya is imbibed . . . At least, first ascertain which are the ailments for which gaumootra aur gaumaya have been verified to be efficacious. . . We have heard that cow urine has medicinal qualities. But, bhai, he asked, what doesn’t? One’s own urine also has some medicinal qualities as gaumootra has .  .  . As one’s own urine also has medicinal qualities, should we keep imbibing our panchgavya on every religious occasion and for pure sanskaars (inborn traits), faculties? Brandy also is a medicine for kafkshayaadi vikaar. Should we, therefore, imbibe it during shraavandi also? Poison too is a medicine for some ailments. Use it for persons who have those ailments. One does not take it in the form of dharmic sanskaars (religious values). Shoot down such thoonth aur moorkhataapoorand sanskaars—this alone will bring lustre to our dharma and sanskriti . . .

When a person announced that it was because she partook of panchgavya that the mother of Lokmanya Tilak gave birth to a son as great as him, Savarkar mocked him and asked, why were not the other things she ate—flour, rice, vegetables, fruit, etc.—the cause? If cow’s dung and urine are actually useful in curing some ailment, Savarkar pointed out, so is the urine of a horse, the milk of a she-donkey, the vishthtaa of a hen. If they cure certain ailments, then let those suffering from those ailments consume them, just as medicines are taken by individuals afflicted with the specific conditions those medicines treat. But do the droppings of the hen cure snakebite? If not, then would you eat them if bitten by a snake? If cow dung is fertiliser, then spread it in the field. Why put it into your stomach? Dead rats are excellent manure for roses. Does that mean that we should take them up to our noses and smell their odour? In any case, even if the panchgavya is useful as a medicine, how does drinking cow urine become a punya? Savarkar asked. By cleansing our soul? The truth, Savarkar said, is that the innocence which has led to making a goddess of an ordinary animal, the same innocent religiosity has led people to take its defecating outside their door as auspicious, to regard brushing its tail over our eyes as beneficial, to consider praying to it as religion, and, in the end, crossing the limits of madness, to consider its urine and dung as sacred and pavitra (pure), to believe that eating or drinking it cleanses our soul, destroys our sins, and constitutes punya in this as well as the next world—innocence has reached a peak. After all, where does the notion that the cow and everything emanating from it is sacred and purifying come from, where does it lead? The cow which, standing in the cowshed, chews on grass and chaaraa (fodder), the one which, even as she is eating, urinates and defecates, upon getting tired while masticating sits down in the same mix of urine and excreta, the one who with its tail tosses on itself the filth lying on the ground, the one who, the moment the rope breaks, runs and puts its mouth in garbage, Savarkar observes, touching the tail of that animal the Brahmin, decked in clean and spotless clothes and shielding his own purity, mixes that animal’s excreta and urine in a silver vessel and drinks it and believes that his life has become pure. Is it right to believe this? There is the further belief that the purity, which is tarnished by even the shadow of such a learned person as Dr Ambedkar, which is destroyed by sitting in the same line for food with a saint such as Tukaram, becomes even purer by touching the tail drenched in the urine and excreta of that cow which is eating all sorts of things in the cowshed, and its excreta and urine purifies everything . . . Can there be a better example of how the intelligence of a man is killed? In response to the accusation that he was denigrating our revered sanskriti, Savarkar retorted that if anything is defaming our great Hindu sanskriti, it is the naive tradition of eating cow dung and drinking cow urine. If our sanatani brothers do not want our tradition to be a subject of derision, then they should bring about an end to this book-based foolishness or pothinishtha moorkhataa. They should not prohibit our writings through which we have drawn the attention of our people towards that foolishness.

8 Must-Listen Audiobooks for Valentine’s Day: Romance, Love, and Heartbreak

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to immerse yourself in stories of love, passion, and second chances. Whether you’re celebrating love, healing from heartbreak, or simply in the mood for an emotional rollercoaster, these audiobooks are perfect companions for the season. Here are eight must-listen audiobooks that will make you feel all the feels this Valentine’s Day.

World’s Best Girlfriend – Can Love Survive the Test of Time?

A heartfelt story about love, longing, and the struggles of maintaining relationships, World’s Best Girlfriend is an emotional ride that will leave you rooting for its characters. If you believe in love that defies the odds, this audiobook is for you.

Front Cover World's Best Girlfriend
World’s Best Girlfriend || Durjoy Datta

Wish I Could Tell You – A Story of Unspoken Words

Sometimes, the most powerful emotions are the ones left unsaid. Wish I Could Tell You is a poignant audiobook that explores love, loss, and the regrets that come with silence. This listen will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to express their feelings.

When I Am with You – A Love That Feels Like Home

This is a tale of comfort, connection, and the beauty of finding love when you least expect it. If you’re looking for a warm, uplifting romance that will make you believe in soulmates, When I Am with You is a must-listen.

I Don’t Love You Anymore: Moving On and Living Your Best Life – A Guide to Healing

Not all Valentine’s Day listens have to be about finding love—sometimes, they’re about finding yourself. I Don’t Love You Anymore is an empowering audiobook for anyone going through heartbreak, offering insights on moving on and embracing self-love.

Fool Me Twice – A Tale of Betrayal and Second Chances

What happens when love is tested by betrayal? Fool Me Twice takes listeners on a journey through deception, forgiveness, and redemption, making it a gripping listen for anyone who loves a story filled with twists and emotional depth.

Something I Never Told You – A Secret That Changes Everything

This audiobook delves into the complexities of love, secrets, and the courage it takes to reveal one’s true feelings. If you enjoy stories with deep emotional conflicts and powerful revelations, Something I Never Told You will keep you hooked.

I Too Had A Love Story – A Classic Tale of Love and Loss

A heart-wrenching love story that stays with you long after the last page, I Too Had A Love Story is a must-listen for anyone who has experienced love in its purest form. It’s a reminder that love, even when lost, remains eternal in our hearts.

All That Sizzles – A Passionate Romance to Ignite Your Heart

For those who love steamy, passionate romance, All That Sizzles is the perfect pick. Full of sizzling chemistry and irresistible characters, this audiobook is sure to add some heat to your Valentine’s Day listening list.

 

Transform Resolutions into Reality: One Audiobook at a Time

As the calendar turns to the start of the year, we’re reminded that life, too, is a story—an unwritten chapter waiting for our pen. Resolutions are the promises we make to ourselves, declarations of the changes we wish to see. But as the days slip by, the ink of intention often fades, leaving our aspirations adrift.

What if this year, you could keep those promises alive?

Audiobooks offer a rare gift: the power of words and stories to accompany us in the quiet spaces of our lives—during a walk, a commute, or a solitary moment of reflection. With each listen, they become companions, guiding us toward our aspirations and sparking the will to turn resolutions into reality.

At the start of this year, discover the perfect audiobook to match your goals. Let these words not just inspire but transform, offering new ways to begin, grow, and thrive.

 

Resolutions Paired with Perfect Listens

To stop procrastinating – Do It Today

Procrastination is the thief of time, stealing moments we’ll never reclaim. In Do It Today, Darius Foroux unpacks the barriers holding you back and offers practical wisdom to overcome them. Begin the year by doing, not delaying.

Front Cover Do It Today
Do It Today || Darius Foroux

Read Now!

 

To master personal finance – Make Epic Money

Wealth, like a garden, flourishes only when tended with care. Ankur Warikoo’s Make Epic Money is a masterclass in nurturing your finances, helping you sow the seeds of smart decisions and reap the rewards of financial freedom.

Front Cover Make Epic Money
Make Epic Money || Ankur Warikoo

Read Now!

 

To let go and start anew – I Don’t Love You Anymore

Letting go is an act of courage, a quiet declaration of hope for tomorrow. Rithvik Singh’s I Don’t Love You Anymore is a lyrical exploration of healing, renewal, and finding the strength to move forward.

Front Cover I Don't Love You Anymore
I Don’t Love You Anymore || Rithvik Singh

Read Now!

 

To be informed of constitutional principles – Who Is Equal

Equality is the cornerstone of justice, yet its meaning evolves in every era. Who Is Equal invites you to delve into the foundations of fairness, offering clarity and perspective on the principles that shape us as a society.

Front Cover Who Is Equal
Who Is Equal || Saurabh Kirpal

Read Now!

 

To spend quality time bonding with your family – Grandpa’s Bag of Stories

Stories are the threads that bind generations, weaving memories into moments of joy. Sudha Murty’s Grandpa’s Bag of Stories is a treasure trove of warmth and wonder, perfect for family evenings spent together.

Front Cover Grandpa's Bag of Stories
Grandpa’s Bag of Stories

Read Now!

 

To boost well-being with mindfulness – Energize Your Mind

In the rush of life, stillness becomes a luxury. Gaur Gopal Das’s Energize Your Mind offers gentle guidance on embracing mindfulness, cultivating peace, and finding the balance we often seek but rarely achieve.

Front Cover Energize Your Mind
Energise Your Mind || Gaur Gopal Das

Read Now!

 

 

To embrace second chances in love and life – Fool Me Twice

Life’s second acts are often its most profound. Fool Me Twice is a poignant reminder that love and redemption often appear when least expected. Step into the start of the year with hope in your heart and faith in new beginnings.

Front Cover Fool Me Twice
Fool Me Twice || Nona Uppal

Read Now!

 

To build a positive mindset – Attitude

Your mindset shapes the world you see. With Attitude, discover how optimism and resilience can transform challenges into opportunities, empowering you to navigate life’s twists and turns with grace.

Front Cover Attitude
Attitude || Adam Ashton and Adam Jones

Read Now!

 

Begin Your Next Chapter

The start of the year is not just a marker of time—it’s a turning point, a blank page. Each audiobook is a guide, a whisper of encouragement, reminding you that every resolution is a promise worth keeping.

Let these stories inspire action, cultivate change, and illuminate the path ahead. This year, don’t just dream of transformation—listen, act, and make it yours.

Frosty, Fun and Fantastic Reads

Looking for the perfect books to spark your child’s imagination this December? From snowy adventures to magical tales, this month’s new releases bring stories that will delight young readers and warm their hearts. Here’s a curated list for you!

 

Front Cover Gawa’s Bag of Good Regards
Gawa’s Bag of Good Regards || Anushka Ravishankar

 

Everyone asks,
What do you want to be?
But Gawa only knows
What he wants to do.

Front Cover Amma, Take Me to the Hill Forts of Rajasthan
Amma, Take Me to the Hill Forts of Rajasthan || Bhakti Mathur

 

Join Amma and her boys, Shiv and Veer, on a captivating journey to the hill forts of Rajasthan—Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh and Amer—that are UNESCO World Heritage sites. This series offers a dazzling introduction to the resplendent heritage of Rajasthan, bringing history to life in the most magnificent way.

Front Cover Rhymes for the Times 
Rhymes for the Times || Ruskin Bond 

 

This collectible edition has a little bit of everything we all need—fun, humour, positive thoughts and wise words to inspire reflection and joy. From an ode to a mischievous cat to the nonsensical grammar of the ‘Idiot’s Alphabet’, Bond’s eclectic and spirited poems are sure to lighten your days and lift your spirits!

Front Cover I am the Universe
I am the Universe || Srijan Pal Singh

 

In this journey through space and time, the Universe itself becomes your guide and storyteller. Discover its origin, explore our solar system, learn about scientists from around the world, and immerse yourself in the wonder of the cosmos. Brimming with fascinating facts, this book is perfect for every curious mind!

Front Cover The Girl Who Played with Numbers: Shakuntala Devi
The Girl Who Played with Numbers: Shakuntala Devi || Lavanya Karthik

 

Before Shankuntala Devi was world-renowned as the human computer, she was a girl to whom numbers were her friends and playmates.

Front Cover The Wish Fish
The Wish Fish || Lesley D. Biswas

 

Namita’s father has caught her a magical fish. What wish will Namita make?

 

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Must-Read New Releases to End the Year Right

 

As December wraps up the year, it’s time to lose yourself in stories that feel like a warm hug or a thrilling escape. End the year on a high note—one page at a time! Check out our picks—you might find your next favourite!

Front Cover Gods, Guns and Missionaries
Gods, Guns and Missionaries || Manu S. Pillai

 

In Gods, Guns and Missionaries, Manu S. Pillai takes us through remarkable dynamics. With an arresting cast of characters—maharajahs, poets, gun-wielding revolutionaries, politicians, polemicists, philosophers and clergymen—this book is ambitious in its scope and provocative in its position. Lucid and exhaustive, it is, at once, a political history, a review of Hindu culture and a study of the social forces that prepared the ground for Hindu nationalism. Turning away from simplistic ideas on religious evolution and European imperialism, the past as it appears here is more complicated—and infinitely richer—than popular narratives allow.

Front Cover Parde ke Peechhey
Parde ke Peechhey || Ila Arun

 

Ila Arun burst into public view with the controversial song from Khal Nayak (1993), Choli Ke Peechhey. But several years before that, she was already well known for her contribution to Rajasthani folk music. A writer herself, with several original plays and many adaptations to her credit, this is her first book, an autobiography. Told in her inimitable style, with sincerity and a touch of humour, this is Ila at her candid best, sharing a glimpse into her life and experience onstage and backstage, parde ke peechhey.

 

Front Cover The Notbook of Kabir
The Notbook of Kabir || Anand

 

Kabir is the most alive of all dead poets. He is a fabric without stitches. No centres, no edges. Anand threads his way in. Over the years, as a publisher and editor, Anand immerses himself in the works of Babasaheb Ambedkar and other anticaste thinkers. The Notbook of Kabir is the result of this pursuit with no end in sight. This is the story of how Anand loses himself trying to find Kabir.

Front Cover Caged
Caged || Gulzar, Sathya Saran

 

Intimate, subtle and deeply personal, Caged … Memories Have Names is probably Gulzar Saab’s first autobiography in verse. Gulzar Saab ruminates and writes in rainbow colours. From Rumi to Pablo Neruda and Jibananda Das, among others, have coloured him in myriad of hues. With this he has painted the portraits of Birju Maharaj, Mehdi Hasan, Pancham, Asha Bhosle in words. Their palpable presence, thoughts and words are etched in Gulzar Saab’s existence.

 

Front Cover The Land of Lost Gods
The Land of Lost Gods || Ahmet Ümit

 

As Yildiz Karasum, a Turkish detective, and her mysterious assistant, Tobias Becker, investigates the suspicious murders, they uncover secrets that could destroy the city that stubbornly clings on to its diversity without forgetting its past. And just as they seem to grasp the core of the missing and imperfect pieces of the puzzle, a new name is revealed… And a truth, that is beyond the reach of any mortal justice. Because when the Gods demand a sacrifice, there is always one to be chosen….

Front Cover Aghori: An Untold Story
Aghori: An Untold Story || Mayur Kalbag

 

Subbu embarks on the most unique journey of his life, filled with indelible experiences. Aghori 1: An Untold Story is not just a tale, but an opportunity for readers to undergo an exuberant expedition that incorporates different and diverse activities that are spiritual, intriguing, ethereal and, at times, frightening.

Front Cover Aghori 2: The Untold Story Continues
Aghori 2: The Untold Story Continues || Mayur Kalbag

 

Subbu returns from the Himalayas, having spent many remarkable days with the Aghori sadhus. Three powerful mantras have been successfully embedded in him, and must now be extracted and transferred to Subbu’s revered guru. The sequel to the bestselling Aghori 1: The Untold Story is filled with spiritually invigorating adventures that readers will love.

 

Front Cover Nehru’s India: Past, Present & Future
Nehru’s India: Past, Present & Future || Aditya Mukherjee

 

With its focus on Nehru’s understanding of history and of India’s cultural past, the book opens a window to his deep understanding of communalism and commitment to secularism. Six decades after his demise, do Nehru’s principles which reflected the values of India’s independence movement still hold water? Candid, argumentative and thought-provoking, Nehru’s India is a brilliant work on the man who made sincere efforts to discover, champion and defend the idea of India.

Front Cover The Slaying Sword
The Slaying Sword || Kalki

 

Can Princess Kundavai fight her way through the web of political intrigue and deceit in which she is trapped? Will valiant Vandiyatevan continue to surmount the colossal challenges fate throws at him? Kalki paints a study in contrasts in The Slaying Sword, the third in the Ponniyin Selvan series, and Gowri Ramnarayan translates his world of conflicts with empathy and adroitness.

Front Cover The Jewelled Crown
The Jewelled Crown || Kaliki

 

In the fourth part of the sprawling Ponniyin Selvan series, we learn more about the intricate complexities and histories propelling our characters towards their ultimate destiny. What will happen in Kadambur?  The mute Mandakini Devi has been forcibly taken to Tanjavur, and Poonkuzhali rushes there to help her aunt. What will happen when the betrayed Mandakini meets the royal family?

 

Front Cover Play to Potential
Play to Potential || Deepak Jayaraman

 

Play to Potential offers a refreshing exploration of human potential, emphasizing discovery through play rather than work. Deepak Jayaraman weaves insights from his eponymous podcast, his coaching work and his lived experience to share a powerful yet simple framework that can act as a guide to navigate the pulls and pressures of life. This book is a guide to living a fulfilled life, integrating family, aspirations, value creation, and deep relationships.

Front Cover The Start-Up Code
The Start-Up Code || Mukesh Bansal

 

The Start-Up Code is more than just a guide—it’s your road map to transforming bold ideas into enduring success. Whether you’re a fledgling entrepreneur or a corporate leader aiming to ignite innovation within your organization, Bansal’s practical frameworks and proven strategies will empower you to dramatically improve your odds of success.

Front Cover Why the Heck Not?
Why the Heck Not? || K P Singh, Aparna Jain

 

Through captivating anecdotes and insights, Why The Heck Not delves into Padma Bhushan awardee KP’s interactions with industry leaders, policymakers, farmers and communities. Learn how he navigated challenges, fostered collaborations, and revolutionised the Indian real estate landscape. A must-read for entrepreneurs, business enthusiasts, and anyone seeking inspiration.

Front Cover The Power of Decision Making
The Power of Decision Making || Manoj Tripathi

 

The Power of Decision-Making is a collection of powerful learnings that will change the way you think about making choices. It will help you make decisions for the better to achieve lasting success in different walks of life. Conceived as a self-help guide, the book includes stories and quotes from some of the most successful people, whose decisions have changed their lives for the better.

Front Cover The Content Creator Handbook
The Content Creator Handbook || Varun Mayya, Achina Sirohi Mayya

 

Every day, millions of videos are uploaded, but only a handful break through to the mainstream. What separates viral content from forgotten content? It’s not luck. It’s not talent—it’s strategy. In this no-nonsense guide, Varun and Achina Mayya—creators of multiple successful YouTube channels and online businesses—reveal the strategies, tactics and insider knowledge that have helped them master the art and science of content creation.

Front Cover How to Suffer Well
How to Suffer Well || Peter Hollins

 

Life is tough, so you better get a helmet. You’ll run into pain, anguish, and obstacles. But who says that they need to affect you? How to Suffer Well is a literal guidebook to learn how to defeat the voices in your head that tell you to give up. Instead, they’ll be replaced with voices that tell you it’ll be okay, this will pass, and life can be happy despite the suffering; only if you know how to suffer well.

Front Cover The Science of Attraction
The Science of Attraction || Patrick King

 

Like all human interaction, even love is primarily guided by our hormones, and there is a definitive science to attraction. This book is your field manual to understand the instinctual, and evolutionary triggers of attraction. The Science of Attraction is an in-depth look at human attraction and what draws people together. Diagnosing and recommending highly actionable steps to take your dating life to the next level. No tricks, no manipulation; only getting inside the human psyche.

 

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The Secret Behind India’s Mega Growth – Uncovered in Behold the Leviathan!

In Behold the Leviathan: The Unusual Rise of Modern India, Saurabh Mukherjea and Nandita Rajhansa provide a gripping picture of how 1.5 billion Indians are combining to spectacular effect to create a range of social and economic outcomes which have no precedent in any emerging economy.

Read the excerpt to find out more.

Front Cover Behold The Leviathan
Behold The Leviathan || Saurabh Mukherjea, Nandita Rajhansa

 

“India Today News Desk
Maharajganj, UPDATED: Jul 10, 2024 17:13 IST
Edited By: Vadapalli Nithin Kumar (With inputs from Amitesh Tripathi)

 

Around 11 married women have gone missing from different villages in Uttar Pradesh’s Maharajganj district after receiving the first instalment of the PM Awas Gramin Yojana. One of them has allegedly eloped with her lover.

 

The government scheme provides financial assistance to poor and middle-class families in building a permanent home. The issue came to light after a man, Sanjay, reported that his wife, Suniya, was missing after she received the first tranche of Rs 40,000 of the scheme.

 

Preliminary investigation by the Block Development Officer revealed that Suniya had eloped with an unknown person, taking the Rs 40,000 installment recently released by the government…

 

Subsequently, 10 other similar cases came to light, where husbands reported their wives to be missing.

 

Suniya’s father-in-law requested the government to transfer the remaining two instalments to his son Sanjay’s account.

 

“The money was sent to our daughter-in-law’s account, and we later found out she had run away with a boy. We demand the government send the money to my son’s account,” he said…

 

However, this is not the first such incident. Previously, four women from Barabanki district ran away with their lovers on receiving Rs 50,000 as part of the scheme.” 

 

The rise of an entrepreneur from Jail Road Market, Delhi

 

Nestled in the crowded bazaar of Jail Road Market in New Delhi is a tiny shop selling colourful kurtas and pants for women, a common business in this neighborhood and in hundreds of similar markets across northern India. However, the owner of this shop and her story are anything but common. The owner is Jasmeen Kaur, creator of the now famous words ‘So beautiful, so elegant, just looking like a wow!’

 

Kaur shot to fame with this catchy phrase when Bollywood star Deepika Padukone recited it on social media and made
it famous. The rise of Instagram and social media, as well as their accessibility to millions of Indians, ensured that the phrase ‘looking like a wow’ became ‘viral’ and made Kaur a celebrity, potentially creating a pan-India—as opposed to local—market for her wares. She signifies the rise of a new India; an India where polished English and high-profile university degrees and MBAs are no longer a prerequisite for success.

 

Today India has millions of successful women entrepreneurs like Kaur. In fact, According to Bain and Co, there are approximately 15.7 million women-run enterprises in India, constituting 22 percent of the overall entrepreneurial landscape, a figure that has the potential to rise to 30 million with further support and encouragement.  For example, 500 km from Mumbai, in the buzzing industrial town of Dewas in Madhya Pradesh (with a population of approximately 2 mn),84 a mother earns a livelihood by making and selling papads on Meesho, an online marketplace for consumer goods, especially popular in tier-3 and tier-4 cities. The profits she generates from selling this humble Indian snack enables her to not only pay for her daily expenses but also for her son’s tuitions, thus making her financially independent of the men in her family.

 

Rather than being exceptions, such stories are the norm today in India. Women throughout the country are successfully launching their own businesses. According to Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) data, women’s share in self-employment has been steadily rising in India, especially in rural areas, whereas men’s share in self-employment has been falling.

 

While the self-employed category is vast and includes unpaid labour too, if we go one level deeper and see the stratification within the self-employed, the rise of women entrepreneurs (rather than ‘woman unpaid’ labour) is evident. In the exhibit below, for women, the share of “self-employment by own account” (i.e. running an enterprise of one’s own) and “self-employment as an employer” (i.e. running a business in which the owner is an employee and, in addition, employs others) has increased between 2017-18 (when PLFS started) and 2022-23. It is notable, that the same trends are not visible for male workers. Even more remarkably, the share of women performing unpaid labour has gone down during this time period.

 

So, what is going on here? What are the drivers of the rapid rise in entrepreneurship among Indian women? We believe there are several forces at work here, including rising education levels among women, greater access to financing for women and greater female political participation.

 

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Get your copy of Behold the Leviathan by Saurabh Mukherjea, Nandita Rajhansa on Amazon or wherever books are sold.

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