Author and Lawyer Kartikeya Vajpai Launches The Unbecoming; Inspires Chennai with Conversations on Wisdom, Self-Worth, and Conscious Living

Chennai, June 23, 2026: Author and lawyer Kartikeya Vajpai today launched his book The Unbecoming: Let Life Reveal Its Purpose at Higginbothams, Anna Salai. On this occasion, he also engaged with students at SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Ramapuram Campus, Chennai.

(On Left) Author and lawyer Kartikeya Vajpai with Dr. R. Shivakumar, Chairman – Ramapuram and Trichy; (On right) with Sriprakash Nadadhur Sridharan, Leadership Columnist 

At SRM, Vajpai met Dr. R. Shivakumar, Chairman – Ramapuram and Trichy, and presented him with a copy of The Unbecoming. Addressing students and faculty, he spoke on the theme “Navigating Life in the Age of Algorithms: Attention, Identity and Meaning in a Media-Saturated World.” The session was attended by Dr. S. Thirumagan, Dean – Science and Humanities, and HoD Dr. Prabhakaran V.

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Drawing a powerful distinction between intellect and wisdom, Vajpai explained that while intellect relies on memory, knowledge, and the familiar, wisdom emerges when one becomes a seeker and ventures into the unknown. He emphasized that technology and AI, despite their immense value, operate within the boundaries of the known and cannot replace the uniquely human capacity for self-discovery and inner growth.

Speaking about the impact of digital culture, Vajpai noted that the modern challenge extends far beyond screen time. In a world where algorithms constantly shape perceptions and aspirations, safeguarding one’s self-worth has become essential. He encouraged young people to consciously train their attention, consume technology mindfully, and avoid allowing external systems to define their identity or purpose.

Delving deeper into the philosophy behind The Unbecoming, Vajpai discussed the concepts of fear, greed, and detachment. He described detachment as a superpower—the freedom from both fear and greed—that enables individuals to remain fully present and fulfilled in their actions. He also highlighted the complementary relationship between science and spirituality, describing science as the exploration of the known and spirituality as the courageous pursuit of the unknown.

Later at the iconic Higginbothams bookstore, Vajpai was joined by author and leadership mentor Sriprakash Nadadhur Sridharan for an insightful discussion on purpose, identity, and personal transformation. Together, they examined the challenges of sustaining spiritual practice in a fast-paced world and reflected on the importance of consistency in self-awareness and inner growth.

Vajpai shared that meditation is not about eliminating thoughts but about creating space for awareness by allowing the senses to rest. Through focused attention, individuals can learn to navigate the constant stream of information and consciously choose which thoughts deserve engagement.

Reflecting on the book’s message, Vajpai said: "I hope The Unbecoming encourages readers to step off the algorithmic treadmill. It is an invitation to let life reveal its purpose through introspection, rather than chasing externally imposed milestones."

Featuring forewords by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Swami Sarvapriyananda, The Unbecoming is a thought-provoking exploration of identity, ambition, purpose, and self-discovery. Through the evolving relationship between a celebrated cricketer and his mentor, the novel invites readers to look beyond external achievements and reconnect with the deeper meaning of life.

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