HarperCollins India has announced it will publish former Congress president Sonia Gandhi's much-anticipated memoir, titled 'Belonging: A Journey of Love,' with a global release date set for November 10, 2026.
This development comes after Penguin Random House India unexpectedly reversed its decision to publish the book, which had initially been announced by its US imprint, Alfred A Knopf. The sudden withdrawal by Penguin sparked considerable controversy within India's political and publishing circles.
Controversy Surrounding Penguin's Withdrawal
The decision by Penguin Random House India to not proceed with the publication in India led to allegations of external pressure. According to various media reports, Penguin had requested certain editorial changes and deletions from the manuscript, which Sonia Gandhi's team reportedly declined. Congress leaders were quick to allege that the publisher was acting under political duress, labeling the refusal a "murder of freedom of expression" and a serious concern for democracy.
Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot specifically claimed that Penguin was pressured to remove passages concerning Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the RSS, and India-China relations. However, Penguin Random House India categorically denied these claims, stating that their decision was not influenced by any external pressure. In an official statement, the publisher indicated that Sonia Gandhi's team ultimately informed them they did not wish to proceed with the publication under the circumstances, adding, "Since we are bound by an agreement, and author confidentiality is paramount to us, we will not divulge details of what led to the impasse."
About 'Belonging: A Journey of Love'
Sonia Gandhi's memoir is expected to offer a deeply personal and dramatic account of her life. It traces her journey from her childhood in post-World War II Italy, through her marriage to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, and her eventual central role in Indian politics for several decades. HarperCollins India has described it as "one of the most anticipated political memoirs of our time," promising a rare insider's view into India's political landscape and Gandhi's personal narrative of love, identity, duty, and belonging.
The publication by HarperCollins India ensures that this significant political memoir will reach readers as planned, despite the preceding publishing challenges.