Author Kartikeya Vajpai Discusses Wisdom, Self-Worth and Conscious Living During Chennai Visit
Chennai: Author and lawyer Kartikeya Vajpai engaged with students, educators, and readers in Chennai through a series of discussions focusing on technology, self-awareness, spirituality, and personal growth. His visit included an interaction at SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Ramapuram Campus, and the launch of his book The Unbecoming: Let Life Reveal Its Purpose at Higginbothams, Anna Salai.
At SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Vajpai met Dr. R. Shivakumar, Chairman – Ramapuram and Trichy, and presented him with a copy of his book. He later addressed students and faculty on the topic, “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 Head of Department Dr. Prabhakaran V.
During the session, Vajpai discussed the distinction between intellect and wisdom. According to him, intellect is rooted in memory, thought, and the ability to process information that is already known, while wisdom emerges through exploration beyond familiar experiences. He noted that modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, operate within the framework of existing knowledge, whereas human growth often requires engagement with the unknown.
Addressing the influence of digital platforms, Vajpai highlighted concerns surrounding attention span, identity, and external validation. He stated that while technology offers significant benefits, individuals should consciously manage how they consume digital content and avoid allowing algorithms to define their sense of purpose or self-worth.
Discussion on Fear, Greed and Detachment
Drawing from spiritual concepts explored in The Unbecoming, Vajpai explained the idea of Maya, describing it as an illusion that distracts individuals from the present moment through fear and greed. He described detachment as the absence of both fear and greed, enabling people to remain fully engaged with their actions while maintaining inner balance.
Vajpai also spoke about the relationship between science and spirituality. He observed that science seeks to understand and explain the known world through observation, while spirituality explores dimensions beyond established knowledge. He described the balance between stillness and action as an important aspect of personal development.
Book Launch at Higginbothams
Later in the day, Vajpai launched The Unbecoming: Let Life Reveal Its Purpose at Higginbothams, Anna Salai. He was joined by author and leadership mentor Sriprakash Nadadhur Sridharan for a discussion on identity, purpose, and self-development.
The conversation addressed challenges associated with maintaining long-term spiritual practices. Vajpai noted that meditation should not be viewed as the elimination of thoughts, but rather as a method of resting the senses and cultivating awareness. He emphasized the role of focused attention in helping individuals navigate the constant flow of information and sensory stimulation.
Speaking during the event, Sriprakash Nadadhur Sridharan said that the book encourages readers to reflect on assumptions related to success and identity, while highlighting the importance of consistency in personal and spiritual growth.
Vajpai stated that The Unbecoming aims to encourage introspection and help readers discover purpose through self-exploration rather than external expectations.
Published by Penguin Random House India, The Unbecoming features forewords by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Swami Sarvapriyananda. The book explores themes of identity, ambition, expectations, and the search for meaning through the evolving relationship between a celebrated cricketer and his mentor.
