From Real Cases to Fictional Crimes: Context Launches Rudraneil Sengupta’s The Beast Within with Delhi Police Leaders and Literary Icons in Attendance

11th April 2025, National – Context, an imprint of Westland Books, officially launched its latest title, The Beast Within, at Kunzum Bookstore, GK II, Delhi. Authored by acclaimed journalist and writer Rudraneil Sengupta, the book was unveiled in the presence of an engaged audience of literary enthusiasts and distinguished guests, including Neeraj Kumar, former Commissioner of Delhi Police; renowned author Madhulika Liddle; and Monika Bhardwaj, Additional Commissioner of Police (Traffic), who graced the occasion as a special guest.

Following the unveiling, author Rudraneil Sengupta, acclaimed writer Madhulika Liddle, and Additional Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Monika Bhardwaj engaged in an insightful discussion on the book’s central themes—ranging from the gritty realities of crime in Delhi and the nuances of investigative work to deeper explorations of morality and the criminal psyche.

Speaking at the launch, author Rudraneil Sengupta said, “I have been interested in stories of crime from a young age. Once I started working as a journalist, I got the opportunity to witness real life cases closely- which led me to write my first crime fiction book. I took the factual stories and weaved them into fictional stories.”

On reading the book, author Madhulika Liddle, said, “What I truly appreciated was how the story brings familiar stereotypes to the surface—only to thoughtfully challenge them through the characters of Sophia and Meera, the two female cops.”

Additional Commissioner of Police, Monika Bhardwaj added, “The Beast Within has all the elements of a compelling film—and I’ve already told Rudraneil that it’s only a matter of time before it becomes one. What stood out to me most about the book is that the central characters are two strong women who boldly challenge conventional notions and stereotypes.”