Book cover chip
Freed by Purpose
New memoir

Abducted in the Middle East and forced to confront fear, I discovered a deeper purpose, one that would shape my life and leadership forever.

Kidnapped by Hezbollah: Freed by Purpose

A True Story of Travel, Turmoil and Triumph

A true story about fear, choice and purpose, written to help you lead when you are not in control.

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About the Book

In 2023, a journey through the Middle East turned into an abduction that changed everything. What followed was a fight for safety, a testing of values and an awakening to the power of purpose under pressure. In this candid memoir, Dr Kaushik Sridhar shares a sequence of human moments that reveal how fear narrows thinking and how small, clear actions create room to lead again. Readers will find practical tools for resilience, decision making when outcomes are uncertain and building steadiness for themselves and their teams. This is not spectacle. It is a grounded account of choices made with limited information, and the habits that help you move from shock to clarity, from reaction to leadership.

  • Resilience without buzzwords: clarity over certainty, reversible steps, short debriefs.
  • Purpose as a practice: habits you can apply this week at work or study.
  • Stories told with dignity: no spectacle, human level accounts and useful lessons.
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Photos

Signed copies on display
Signed copies on table
Stack of signed copies
Author signed interior page
Display of signed copies in bookstore
Signed copies close up
Signed copies shelf view
Counter with signed copies
Signed cover detail
Signed title page

Prefer a signed copy? Look for the “Signed Copy” sticker at Dymocks (Melbourne CBD, Prahran, Sydney), Readings (Chadstone, Emporium, Malvern) and Sydney Airport (Watermark Books). Availability varies by store.

Singapore

Highlights from the international launch in Singapore.
Kaushik was an invited guest speaker for the Galaxy X ‘Meet Exceptional Persons’ series, where he shared his story of resilience, held a Q&A and signed books for attendees.

Kaushik Sridhar speaking at Singapore event Audience listening at Singapore book launch Panel discussion at Singapore event Book display at Singapore launch Author signing books in Singapore Event signage for Freed by Purpose Author with attendees at Singapore launch Attendees holding signed books in Singapore

Impact

2,000+
Total sales / people impacted
Goodreads community rating
Early reviews
★★★★★

See on Goodreads

Reviews

“This book is a moment to pause and think about our own inner strength. The experience forces you to redefine what it truly means to be successful and find purpose. You walk away from this read feeling moved, inspired, and with a fresh perspective on how to handle life’s difficult moments.”
“Concise, human and surprisingly practical. I marked several pages for my team.”
“A grounded story about fear and leadership under pressure, without the spectacle.”

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Contact

Enquiries related to media appearances, speaking engagements and review copies are welcome. Please include your organisation, preferred dates and a brief description of your request.

FAQ

Is the book graphic?

No. The narrative avoids sensational detail and focuses on practical lessons.

Who is it for?

Leaders, students and readers interested in purpose under uncertainty.

Is it suitable for students/corporate audiences?

Yes. The lessons focus on decision making, resilience and practical habits, useful in classrooms, leadership programs and team offsites.

Where can I meet the author or attend a talk?

Upcoming events are listed on this page. For hosting enquiries, use the contact email with preferred dates and audience size.

What inspired the book?

A real abduction, the choices made under uncertainty and the tools that helped move from fear to purposeful action.

Kidnapped by Hezbollah: Freed by Purpose · © 2025 Dr Kaushik Sridhar