The Rise Insight is delighted to extend heartfelt congratulations to Abhishek Kumar, whose remarkable book “Why We Believe: Dialogues on Doubt, Faith, and Reason” has been officially nominated for the prestigious TRI Literary Awards 2026 (Season 04). This recognition is a true testament to the depth, originality, and impact of his work in the category of Philosophical Fiction.
Abhishek Kumar’s book stands out not merely as a literary creation, but as a profound invitation into the timeless exploration of belief, doubt, and the quest for meaning. “Why We Believe” takes readers into the lives of five young friends—Ayan, Maya, Sam, Rohan, and Neel—whose dialogues weave together science, spirituality, morality, and human vulnerability in a way that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.
Rather than providing rigid answers, the narrative embraces open-ended inquiry, reflecting the very essence of the human condition: our struggle to reconcile rational thought with spiritual longing. Questions of free will, suffering, consciousness, and the existence of the divine are explored with empathy and sincerity, creating a bridge between philosophy and lived human experience.
One of the most compelling aspects of the book, and perhaps one of the reasons it resonated so deeply with the TRI Literary Awards jury, is its unique ability to make complex discussions both accessible and personal. The IIT college setting grounds the narrative in reality, while the characters’ varied perspectives allow readers to see themselves in the story. Ayan’s rational skepticism, Maya’s spiritual devotion, Rohan’s ethical reflections, Sam’s quiet vulnerability, and Neel’s curious humor together form a microcosm of the broader human dialogue.
The TRI Literary Awards committee noted that Abhishek Kumar’s work captures the spirit of dialogue at a time when society is often divided by extremes. “Why We Believe” does not take sides but highlights the beauty of uncertainty and the courage it takes to sit with unanswered questions. In this way, the book exemplifies the values of the award—celebrating literature that fosters understanding, encourages self-reflection, and inspires readers to think beyond boundaries.
Another standout element is the symbolic narrative of Sam’s struggle with color blindness. His poignant realization, “What we see is real too—just different,” mirrors the core philosophy of the book: that truth and reality are shaped by perspective, and no single lens can capture the whole. This metaphor for subjective reality is one of the most powerful illustrations of the balance between doubt, faith, and reason.
By choosing “Why We Believe: Dialogues on Doubt, Faith, and Reason” as a nominee, TRI has recognized not just a book, but a movement towards compassionate intellectualism—literature that challenges without alienating, and teaches without preaching.
On behalf of The Rise Insight team, we once again congratulate Abhishek Kumar for this prestigious nomination. May this milestone inspire many more thought-provoking works, and may “Why We Believe” continue to guide readers across the world toward meaningful conversations, self-discovery, and inner growth. 🌟
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