KARUNA: The Power of Compassion

By Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi

Release Date: 17 January 2026

HarperCollins India has announced the publication of Karuna: The Power of Compassion by Nobel Peace Laureate and Founder of the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion, Kailash Satyarthi.

In an age marked by conflict, inequality, and growing indifference, Karuna presents a powerful and timely exploration of compassion—not as a soft emotion, but as a transformative force capable of driving justice, equality, peace, and sustainability. The book calls for the globalisation of compassion and introduces a new framework to understand and practice it meaningfully in personal, institutional, and societal contexts.

The book will be officially launched at the Jaipur Literature Festival on 17 January 2026 and is currently available for pre-order at www.thekarunabook.com.

Speaking about the book, Kailash Satyarthi said:

“In Karuna, I share the most profound lesson from my lifelong struggle to restore human freedom and dignity—that compassion is not merely an emotion, but a dynamic and transformative force. I introduce the concept of the Compassion Quotient (CQ), a scientific approach to measuring and enhancing compassion in individuals and organisations. Compassion today is not a choice; it is essential for the survival of humanity.”

Udayan Mitra, Executive Publisher, HarperCollins India, added:

“In Karuna, Kailash Satyarthi shows us a simple yet powerful way to overcome our differences and build a better future—through compassion. This is a book everyone should read, and we are proud to bring it to readers.”

About the Book

I see a world where compassion is the only solution. Do you see what I see?

Despite unprecedented technological and economic advancement, humanity faces a deep moral and social crisis. Karuna argues that compassion is the answer—one that transcends borders, ideologies, religions, and politics, urging us to act mindfully as one global family.

Drawing from five decades of grassroots activism, Kailash Satyarthi presents compassion as a way of life and a practical solution to individual, social, and global challenges.

About the Author

Kailash Satyarthi, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate (2014), has dedicated over fifty years to advocating for the rights and dignity of marginalized children and communities worldwide. He believes compassion (Karuna) is the foundation of a just, peaceful, and sustainable world.

Book Details

Publisher: HarperCollins India
ISBN: 9789369895649
Format: Paperback
Pages: 248 + 8 page inserts
Price: INR 399