Sonia Gandhi’s Memoir ‘Belonging’ Gets New Publisher; HarperCollins To Release Book On November 10

New Delhi: Sonia Gandhi's memoir, titled "Belonging: A Journey of Love," is set to be published in India by HarperCollins, following a publisher switch after Penguin Random House India withdrew from the project. The book will be released in the country on November 10, 2026, alongside its global launch. The North American edition is being released by Alfred A. Knopf, a US imprint of Penguin Random House.

The memoir, one of the most anticipated political autobiographies, delves into Gandhi's personal and political life, from her early years in Italy to her rise in Indian politics. It covers her marriage to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, the assassinations of her relatives, her entry into politics, and her decision to decline the prime minister's position in 2004.

HarperCollins India's involvement in the publication comes after a disagreement with Gandhi's team over some politically sensitive sections of the manuscript. Although the exact content of the disputed passages remains undisclosed, reports suggested that Penguin had requested editorial changes. Gandhi's team was reportedly unwilling to make significant alterations, leading to a standstill in the Indian edition's publication.

While Penguin Random House India did not confirm it had "dropped" the memoir due to Gandhi's refusal to accept editorial changes, the publisher reaffirmed its willingness to publish the book following fact-checking and editorial assessment. Both parties have denied any external pressure influencing the publishing process, with Congress leaders alleging otherwise and questioning the editorial independence and freedom of expression.