HarperCollins to Publish Sonia Gandhi's Memoir 'Belonging' on November 10

HarperCollins is set to publish Sonia Gandhi's memoir "Belonging" on November 10, 2026, stepping in after a publishing fallout with Penguin Random House India. This follows editorial disagreements between Penguin and Gandhi’s representatives, mainly over passages on Indian politics, including references to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the RSS, according to Hindustan Times .

Background of the Publishing Disagreement

Originally, Penguin Random House India (PRHI) was set to publish the memoir but failed to agree on suggested edits to sensitive content, leading to the impasse. PRHI stated that the editorial differences were internal and not influenced by external pressures. This has not stopped the Congress party from questioning the motivations behind the publishing halt, accusing PRHI of possible political bias, as reported by Hindustan Times .

Memoir Themes and Content

The memoir, titled "Belonging: A Journey of Love," delves into Sonia Gandhi's personal journey from her Italian roots into India's political fabric. Key themes include her sense of identity, cultural adaptation, insights into India's political landscape, and her personal life, especially her relationship with her late husband, Rajiv Gandhi.

Public and Political Reactions

The controversy surrounding the book’s publication in India has sparked discussions about editorial freedom and political influence in the Indian publishing industry. While the memoir remains unpublished, the debate has heightened interest in its anticipated release. According to The News Minute , HarperCollins is now positioned to deliver this narrative to readers both internationally and potentially within India.

Conclusion and Future Prospects

With the international edition from Alfred A. Knopf set for release, the political backdrop of "Belonging" continues to provoke substantial interest and discussion. As HarperCollins moves forward with publication, anticipation remains high about its reception and impact, particularly in the nuanced context of Indian politics.