The lawns and halls of India International Centre in New Delhi turned into a lively meeting ground for writers, artists and thinkers on Thursday evening, as former Rajya Sabha member Pavan K Varma launched his latest book, The Lady Who Carried the Monk Across the River. Published by Penguin Random House, the book explores Hindu philosophy and the broader Hindu worldview, reflecting on the tensions between pleasure, spirituality and everyday life. Javed Akhtar, Pavan K Varma and Advaita Kala The evening drew a packed audience and brought together several prominent names from Delhi’s cultural and intellectual circles. Among those in attendance were screenwriter and lyricist Javed Akhtar, architect Sunita Kohli, classical dancer Shovana Narayan, columnist and public relations expert Suhel Seth, and artist Jatin Das. The discussion was moderated by author and screenwriter Advaita Kala, who steered the conversation through themes of Indian philosophy, culture and the evolving interpretation of Hindu thought. Akhtar, who had read the book closely before the event, spoke at length about its distinctive style and ideas. Reflecting on his reading …