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There's a Ghost in My Room: Living with the Supernatural
The first spirit Sanjoy Roy encountered was one that haunted his ancestral house in Calcutta; he was five then. A few years later, the otherworldly made its presence felt again in his parents' sprawling bungalow in Lutyens' Delhi. Over the decades that followed, he and his family and friends have come across a variety of apparitions, spectres and phantoms in diverse locations both in India and abroad. Some of these beings are benign or at most mischievous, but others--lost, disturbed souls--are angrier and have to be placated.
For Sanjoy, his ability to sense and interact with the supernatural is not something remarkable, but part of his everyday reality. As he sees it, there is perhaps a dimension parallel to ours, one that is teeming with spirits and souls. There's a Ghost in My Room is a fascinating travelogue through that mysterious world.
Rich in period detail, humour and adventure, this unusual memoir makes for a compelling read and is sure to enthrall both the haunted-world sceptic and those who believe.
For Sanjoy, his ability to sense and interact with the supernatural is not something remarkable, but part of his everyday reality. As he sees it, there is perhaps a dimension parallel to ours, one that is teeming with spirits and souls. There's a Ghost in My Room is a fascinating travelogue through that mysterious world.
Rich in period detail, humour and adventure, this unusual memoir makes for a compelling read and is sure to enthrall both the haunted-world sceptic and those who believe.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 27, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
December 19, 2025
There’s a Ghost in My Room: Living with the Supernatural
Sanjoy K. Roy’s starting point in this memoir lies not in pursuing ghosts, but with listening to footsteps that are not our own, with sudden inklings that alter the course of our day, with the whisper of a world that murmurs just out of our trained vision. "The supernatural in my experience" is not an intruder, but an old friend "who has walked with me since I was a child" and has influenced instincts, decisions, and this “settled conviction’ that "there’s always another world in view."
However, as the chapters progress, Roy begins to remove the dramatic flair and settle on an even more intimate, confessional tone. This is the way he writes about spirits as he writes about family, struggle, or success. Not only does the uncanny become believable as he eschews dramatics in favor of realism, the paranormal is treated effortlessly, stripped of any dramatic ornamentation.
Among the greatest pleasures that one derives as a reader of this memoir is witnessing the kind of family spiritual heritage that sustains Roy through all the turbulence that theatre is, as a medium, and that sustains him as a person. His is a rather fragile self that is revealed to the reader, and his wife, Puneeta, is also present as a mirror to all that is happening, as a strong referential point to his spiritual self.
LOVED the first chapter as I am bengali too.
The tale expands into unexpected realms: global landscapes, meeting legendary figures, philosophical excursions, even moments of star quality. But in every instance, Roy recognizes the whisper of something antiquated lingering in the background, a ghost not of fear but of memory, desire, safeguarding, and unrequited history.
Eventually, the memoir starts to leave the idea of supernatural events behind and move towards a philosophical exploration of presence, of what it is that we feel, what it is that we sense, and that which cannot be simplely explained away. The author asks no questions but merely asks us to listen. In this attention, the unseen is made remarkably human.
Sanjoy K. Roy’s starting point in this memoir lies not in pursuing ghosts, but with listening to footsteps that are not our own, with sudden inklings that alter the course of our day, with the whisper of a world that murmurs just out of our trained vision. "The supernatural in my experience" is not an intruder, but an old friend "who has walked with me since I was a child" and has influenced instincts, decisions, and this “settled conviction’ that "there’s always another world in view."
However, as the chapters progress, Roy begins to remove the dramatic flair and settle on an even more intimate, confessional tone. This is the way he writes about spirits as he writes about family, struggle, or success. Not only does the uncanny become believable as he eschews dramatics in favor of realism, the paranormal is treated effortlessly, stripped of any dramatic ornamentation.
Among the greatest pleasures that one derives as a reader of this memoir is witnessing the kind of family spiritual heritage that sustains Roy through all the turbulence that theatre is, as a medium, and that sustains him as a person. His is a rather fragile self that is revealed to the reader, and his wife, Puneeta, is also present as a mirror to all that is happening, as a strong referential point to his spiritual self.
LOVED the first chapter as I am bengali too.
The tale expands into unexpected realms: global landscapes, meeting legendary figures, philosophical excursions, even moments of star quality. But in every instance, Roy recognizes the whisper of something antiquated lingering in the background, a ghost not of fear but of memory, desire, safeguarding, and unrequited history.
Eventually, the memoir starts to leave the idea of supernatural events behind and move towards a philosophical exploration of presence, of what it is that we feel, what it is that we sense, and that which cannot be simplely explained away. The author asks no questions but merely asks us to listen. In this attention, the unseen is made remarkably human.
December 18, 2025
There are books about ghosts that try to frighten you, and then there are books like "There’s a Ghost in My Room" that quietly rearrange how you think about presence, memory, and belief. Sanjoy K. Roy’s memoir does not announce itself as a paranormal spectacle. Instead, it opens its doors gently, inviting the reader into a life where the supernatural is not an interruption but a constant, almost domestic companion.
From the very first pages, those early recollections of an ancestral house in Calcutta steeped in sepia-toned memory, he establishes the book’s emotional register. This is not horror; it is atmosphere. Childhood, family history, architecture, food, conversations, and cities come together to create a sense of lived continuity.
At its core, the book is not really about ghosts. It is about perception, about how some people move through the world with a heightened attentiveness to what others ignore. He repeatedly insists on his skepticism, and this insistence is crucial. The book never asks the reader to “believe.” Instead, it asks the reader to sit with experience, to acknowledge that not everything meaningful fits neatly into rational explanation.
One of the book’s strongest themes is the idea of parallel realities, not in a science-fiction sense, but as coexisting layers of life. He suggests that the supernatural may not be an invasion of our world, but simply another frequency operating alongside it. This metaphor of an “antenna” is particularly effective, because it places responsibility not on the existence of spirits, but on human receptivity.
Equally important is the book’s engagement with Indian cultural memory. Ghosts here are not imported tropes; they are deeply rooted in place. Rural folklore, urban legends, ancestral homes, temples, hills, hotels, and old cities form a cultural map where the supernatural is woven into daily life. In this sense, the memoir also functions as an anthropological document, preserving oral traditions and belief systems that modern life often dismisses too easily.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its tone. He writes the way someone speaks when they are not trying to convince you of anything. The book is conversational, often humorous, and refreshingly unpretentious. There is no gothic excess, no melodramatic buildup. The supernatural is described with the same casual clarity as a meal shared or a journey undertaken.
The short chapters work in the book’s favour, allowing each episode to breathe without overstaying its welcome. Period details, food, architecture, political context, cultural references, add texture and credibility, grounding even the strangest moments in recognisable reality.
Most importantly, the book displays a humanitarian lens. He repeatedly reframes ghosts not as objects of fear but as beings deserving compassion. Troubled spirits are portrayed as lost souls rather than malevolent forces, echoing a broader ethical stance: that fear often arises from misunderstanding, and that empathy can be a form of light.
In conclusion, it is an intimate, atmospheric memoir that resists easy categorization. It sits at the intersection of the supernatural, cultural history, and personal narrative, offering a calm yet provocative meditation on what it means to perceive more than what is visible. It may not satisfy readers seeking terror or elaborate paranormal investigation, but it will deeply resonate with those interested in intuition, memory, heritage, and the unseen threads that quietly guide our lives. Honest, warm, and quietly unsettling, this book lingers, not because it frightens, but because it invites you to reconsider how much of the world you are willing to notice.
From the very first pages, those early recollections of an ancestral house in Calcutta steeped in sepia-toned memory, he establishes the book’s emotional register. This is not horror; it is atmosphere. Childhood, family history, architecture, food, conversations, and cities come together to create a sense of lived continuity.
At its core, the book is not really about ghosts. It is about perception, about how some people move through the world with a heightened attentiveness to what others ignore. He repeatedly insists on his skepticism, and this insistence is crucial. The book never asks the reader to “believe.” Instead, it asks the reader to sit with experience, to acknowledge that not everything meaningful fits neatly into rational explanation.
One of the book’s strongest themes is the idea of parallel realities, not in a science-fiction sense, but as coexisting layers of life. He suggests that the supernatural may not be an invasion of our world, but simply another frequency operating alongside it. This metaphor of an “antenna” is particularly effective, because it places responsibility not on the existence of spirits, but on human receptivity.
Equally important is the book’s engagement with Indian cultural memory. Ghosts here are not imported tropes; they are deeply rooted in place. Rural folklore, urban legends, ancestral homes, temples, hills, hotels, and old cities form a cultural map where the supernatural is woven into daily life. In this sense, the memoir also functions as an anthropological document, preserving oral traditions and belief systems that modern life often dismisses too easily.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its tone. He writes the way someone speaks when they are not trying to convince you of anything. The book is conversational, often humorous, and refreshingly unpretentious. There is no gothic excess, no melodramatic buildup. The supernatural is described with the same casual clarity as a meal shared or a journey undertaken.
The short chapters work in the book’s favour, allowing each episode to breathe without overstaying its welcome. Period details, food, architecture, political context, cultural references, add texture and credibility, grounding even the strangest moments in recognisable reality.
Most importantly, the book displays a humanitarian lens. He repeatedly reframes ghosts not as objects of fear but as beings deserving compassion. Troubled spirits are portrayed as lost souls rather than malevolent forces, echoing a broader ethical stance: that fear often arises from misunderstanding, and that empathy can be a form of light.
In conclusion, it is an intimate, atmospheric memoir that resists easy categorization. It sits at the intersection of the supernatural, cultural history, and personal narrative, offering a calm yet provocative meditation on what it means to perceive more than what is visible. It may not satisfy readers seeking terror or elaborate paranormal investigation, but it will deeply resonate with those interested in intuition, memory, heritage, and the unseen threads that quietly guide our lives. Honest, warm, and quietly unsettling, this book lingers, not because it frightens, but because it invites you to reconsider how much of the world you are willing to notice.
November 2, 2025
The title of the book ’There’s a ghost in the room' and the sub title 'living with the supernatural' may lead you to believe that this memoir by Sanjoy K Roy is a thriller! And while ghosts and spirits, the supernatural and the paranormal do make regular appearances in the book, I would prefer to describe this memoir as an honest and unfiltered version of the life and times of an indefatigable man - the person we know as ‘Arts’ entrepreneur, Sanjoy K Roy.
But irrespective of whether you know him, you are bound to get all caught up in the remarkable journey of a maverick who chose ‘the road less travelled,’ dabbling in philosophy and theater, culture and films while all the while pursuing an extraordinary vision that saw him battling financial instability while building a loyal fanbase of supporters. And this is the triumph of human spirit that embodies the spirit of this memoir.
I particularly loved the fact that he stayed true to his roots even as he steered himself in a new direction. His poignant portrayal of his illustrious family with its deeply spiritual heritage became the shield that helped him navigate life's challenges as he battled many a demon - literally and metaphorically.
I was particularly impressed by his candour and honesty as he lays bare his soul revealing some of his most vulnerable moments. He repeatedly credits his wife Puneeta, for her unstinting support, her healing energies and her ability to complement him as he himself picks up on the slightest of cues (read spirits and ghosts) with a radar that sometimes is so finely tuned that he struggles to drown out those voices.
It is both ironic and somewhat logical that while he harks back to culture and tradition, to stories of spirits and the occult in all parts of the world, delving into their hoary pasts, he simultaneously introduces us to foreign lands with their grand vistas and chequered histories while keeping a focus on contemporary politics.
As if that were not enough to keep us hooked, there is romance and glamour, and parties with famous people who had humble beginings much like our author and these journeys make for an absorbing read.
I finished the book with wonder at his deep faith and his instincts, as much as his ability to be a risk taker, a trail blazer who yet maintained a deep sense of empathy and sensitivity to people and animals, both living and dead
I enjoyed this unfiltered version of the multi faceted Sanjoy Roy as much as I loved how he repeatedly encourages us to look at ghosts and demons as guardian angels who need our compassion and light much more than our fear or horror!
And for those who believe in ghosts and spirits, go ahead and savour this beautiful world of the supernatural with the inimitable Sanjoy Roy who can cook with as much aplomb as he can organise, execute, inspire and now write!
#theresaghostinmyroom #memoir #book #author #arts #ghosts #spirits #healing #light #books #teamworkarts #culture #heritage #travel #writer #sanjoyroy #jaipurliteraturefestival
But irrespective of whether you know him, you are bound to get all caught up in the remarkable journey of a maverick who chose ‘the road less travelled,’ dabbling in philosophy and theater, culture and films while all the while pursuing an extraordinary vision that saw him battling financial instability while building a loyal fanbase of supporters. And this is the triumph of human spirit that embodies the spirit of this memoir.
I particularly loved the fact that he stayed true to his roots even as he steered himself in a new direction. His poignant portrayal of his illustrious family with its deeply spiritual heritage became the shield that helped him navigate life's challenges as he battled many a demon - literally and metaphorically.
I was particularly impressed by his candour and honesty as he lays bare his soul revealing some of his most vulnerable moments. He repeatedly credits his wife Puneeta, for her unstinting support, her healing energies and her ability to complement him as he himself picks up on the slightest of cues (read spirits and ghosts) with a radar that sometimes is so finely tuned that he struggles to drown out those voices.
It is both ironic and somewhat logical that while he harks back to culture and tradition, to stories of spirits and the occult in all parts of the world, delving into their hoary pasts, he simultaneously introduces us to foreign lands with their grand vistas and chequered histories while keeping a focus on contemporary politics.
As if that were not enough to keep us hooked, there is romance and glamour, and parties with famous people who had humble beginings much like our author and these journeys make for an absorbing read.
I finished the book with wonder at his deep faith and his instincts, as much as his ability to be a risk taker, a trail blazer who yet maintained a deep sense of empathy and sensitivity to people and animals, both living and dead
I enjoyed this unfiltered version of the multi faceted Sanjoy Roy as much as I loved how he repeatedly encourages us to look at ghosts and demons as guardian angels who need our compassion and light much more than our fear or horror!
And for those who believe in ghosts and spirits, go ahead and savour this beautiful world of the supernatural with the inimitable Sanjoy Roy who can cook with as much aplomb as he can organise, execute, inspire and now write!
#theresaghostinmyroom #memoir #book #author #arts #ghosts #spirits #healing #light #books #teamworkarts #culture #heritage #travel #writer #sanjoyroy #jaipurliteraturefestival
January 28, 2026
Book Review: There’s a Ghost in My Room: Living with the Supernatural by Sanjoy K. Roy
I met Sanjoy K. Roy for the first time at the second edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival, where I already knew him as a literary connoisseur. What I hadn’t realised then was what a beautiful and engaging writer he is.
I must admit, I had my moments of doubt before picking up There’s a Ghost in My Room: Living with the Supernatural. I am not a reader who enjoys creepy, gory, or bizarre stories. However, while returning from JLF 2026, I noticed the book at the airport and managed to get a good deal on it. I remember thinking, why not—there’s nothing to lose.
I began reading the book at the airport, and before boarding my flight, I was already 100 pages in—quite an achievement for a slow reader like me. The book is a collection of short stories that recount Sanjoy Roy’s paranormal and supernatural experiences, but what makes it truly compelling is how deeply personal it feels.
Alongside the supernatural, the book offers glimpses into his growth in the media world, his relationship with his wife and children, and how the paranormal has always been an integral part of his life. The narrative begins with a story from his childhood in Calcutta, and being a Bengali, reading stories rooted in my hometown instantly drew me in.
As I read on, I felt that perhaps such experiences are always around us, but we either lack the sensitivity to acknowledge them or are so firmly rooted in logic that we dismiss them as absurd. The stories subtly challenge this mindset without demanding belief.
Each story is beautifully written, carrying a lyrical quality that enhances its intensity. Since these are personal experiences, they leave you with a lingering sense of wonder, repeatedly asking yourself—can such things really happen?
There’s a Ghost in My Room: Living with the Supernatural was a thoroughly engaging read, and I would rate it 4 out of 5 stars.
Instagram Story
There’s a Ghost in My Room: Living with the Supernatural by Sanjoy K. Roy turned out to be an unexpected and engaging read. I met the author at the second edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival and knew him as a literary connoisseur, but this book revealed his depth as a writer.
Despite not being a fan of creepy or bizarre stories, I picked up the book at the airport while returning from JLF 2026—and before I knew it, I was already several chapters in. A collection of personal short stories, the book blends paranormal experiences with memories of childhood in Calcutta, family life, and the author’s journey in the media world. As a Bengali, those Kolkata moments especially stayed with me.
I met Sanjoy K. Roy for the first time at the second edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival, where I already knew him as a literary connoisseur. What I hadn’t realised then was what a beautiful and engaging writer he is.
I must admit, I had my moments of doubt before picking up There’s a Ghost in My Room: Living with the Supernatural. I am not a reader who enjoys creepy, gory, or bizarre stories. However, while returning from JLF 2026, I noticed the book at the airport and managed to get a good deal on it. I remember thinking, why not—there’s nothing to lose.
I began reading the book at the airport, and before boarding my flight, I was already 100 pages in—quite an achievement for a slow reader like me. The book is a collection of short stories that recount Sanjoy Roy’s paranormal and supernatural experiences, but what makes it truly compelling is how deeply personal it feels.
Alongside the supernatural, the book offers glimpses into his growth in the media world, his relationship with his wife and children, and how the paranormal has always been an integral part of his life. The narrative begins with a story from his childhood in Calcutta, and being a Bengali, reading stories rooted in my hometown instantly drew me in.
As I read on, I felt that perhaps such experiences are always around us, but we either lack the sensitivity to acknowledge them or are so firmly rooted in logic that we dismiss them as absurd. The stories subtly challenge this mindset without demanding belief.
Each story is beautifully written, carrying a lyrical quality that enhances its intensity. Since these are personal experiences, they leave you with a lingering sense of wonder, repeatedly asking yourself—can such things really happen?
There’s a Ghost in My Room: Living with the Supernatural was a thoroughly engaging read, and I would rate it 4 out of 5 stars.
Instagram Story
There’s a Ghost in My Room: Living with the Supernatural by Sanjoy K. Roy turned out to be an unexpected and engaging read. I met the author at the second edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival and knew him as a literary connoisseur, but this book revealed his depth as a writer.
Despite not being a fan of creepy or bizarre stories, I picked up the book at the airport while returning from JLF 2026—and before I knew it, I was already several chapters in. A collection of personal short stories, the book blends paranormal experiences with memories of childhood in Calcutta, family life, and the author’s journey in the media world. As a Bengali, those Kolkata moments especially stayed with me.
February 24, 2026
📚 BOOK REVIEW
There's a Ghost in My Room: Living with the Supernatural
by Sanjoy K. Roy
There's a ghost in my room is written by Author Sanjoy K. Roy. He is the managing director of Teamwork Arts which organizes the world largest literary gathering, the annual Jaipur Literature Festival. This is the first book by the author which is an amalgamation of memoir, travelouge and supernatural elements.
Sanjoy's life which is more stranger than fiction. He shares his real life experiences about his encounters with supernatural elements at different places of the world. His first encounter with a spirit was in his ancestral house in Calcutta. He was only five years old. The next presence he felt after a few years in his parent's bungalow in Delhi. Since then he came across many experience with the other worldly creatures both in India and abroad. At times his younger son also felt spiritual presence in some specific places.
We can term the author to have special powers which can sense the spiritual elements and understand them well. Living with the supernatural had indeed become a part of his life. His guiding angels and his Gurudev blessings always protected him from unknown dangers and scary adventures.
The narration is fast paced and engaging. His writing style is warm, full of humour and adventure. This is the first memoir which did not bored me a bit. I felt all the occurrence taking place infront of my eyes which scares me a bit, at times amused me and sometimes left me confused. We also find an account of his initial struggles while building up his team and finally shaping up Teamworks. His worldwide excursion gives us information about the various literary festivals, different cultures and adventures from around the world.
The book has all the elements to entertain the readers, give a look into supernatural elements and surprise us at times. I enjoyed every bit of it.
There's a Ghost in My Room: Living with the Supernatural
by Sanjoy K. Roy
There's a ghost in my room is written by Author Sanjoy K. Roy. He is the managing director of Teamwork Arts which organizes the world largest literary gathering, the annual Jaipur Literature Festival. This is the first book by the author which is an amalgamation of memoir, travelouge and supernatural elements.
Sanjoy's life which is more stranger than fiction. He shares his real life experiences about his encounters with supernatural elements at different places of the world. His first encounter with a spirit was in his ancestral house in Calcutta. He was only five years old. The next presence he felt after a few years in his parent's bungalow in Delhi. Since then he came across many experience with the other worldly creatures both in India and abroad. At times his younger son also felt spiritual presence in some specific places.
We can term the author to have special powers which can sense the spiritual elements and understand them well. Living with the supernatural had indeed become a part of his life. His guiding angels and his Gurudev blessings always protected him from unknown dangers and scary adventures.
The narration is fast paced and engaging. His writing style is warm, full of humour and adventure. This is the first memoir which did not bored me a bit. I felt all the occurrence taking place infront of my eyes which scares me a bit, at times amused me and sometimes left me confused. We also find an account of his initial struggles while building up his team and finally shaping up Teamworks. His worldwide excursion gives us information about the various literary festivals, different cultures and adventures from around the world.
The book has all the elements to entertain the readers, give a look into supernatural elements and surprise us at times. I enjoyed every bit of it.
December 15, 2025
”As I grew older, I became, like Pa (my father), more of a sceptic than a believer. The death of a favourite dog had me move away from the notion of God com-pletely, only to return to the acceptance of a higher universal energy in later years”
- Sanjoy K Roy, There's a ghost in the room
’There’s a ghost in the room' — 'living with the supernatural' may lead you to believe that this deeply moving personal memoir by Roy is actually a pure horror experience but it's more than that.
Whilst ghosts, spirits and the supernatural make their regular presence felt throughout the book. I do feel that the read is an no holds barred version of Roy's life who's famous as an art connoisseur.
He took a risk by choosing a different genre but this worked and how! Regardless of whether you are familiar with his works or not he takes us to a remarkable journey who took a path that is less travelled. Steering fluidly from philosophy to culture to theatre and films, writing provided the much needed solace from his financial woes. The resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversities triumphs. I really felt when he chose to remain firmly in his roots which made me reminsce a saying that I carved deep in my heart.
The portrayal of his illustrious family, how he navigated the uncertainties that became a armour that protected him from life's numerous challenges as he faced his demons - literally and in a metaphorical sense. He candidly states that - ”My father, a sceptic, acknowledged Ma Durga and the many deities in the Hindu pantheon but didn’t quite know what to do when it came to religion and ritual.” but his mother was the one who was deeply spiritual at heart.
This was actually the first time, I'm reading a book in this genre and Roy's book will definitely be a launchpad for many more books in this category.
January 16, 2026
I didn’t expect to enjoy this book as much as I did—but Sanjoy Roy completely surprised me. On the surface it sounds like a collection of ghost stories, but it’s actually a layered memoir about a man who has lived his entire life with one foot in our world and one foot in the supernatural.
What kept me hooked was how matter-of-fact Roy is about the bizarre. He isn’t trying to convert you into a believer, nor is he sensationalizing anything for effect. He recounts encounters from his childhood homes in Calcutta and Lutyens’ Delhi with the same ease that someone might talk about old family furniture—except in his case, the “furniture” occasionally moves, whispers, or looks straight at you. That casual tone makes the supernatural feel almost domestic, which somehow makes it creepier but also oddly charming.
The book is rich in atmosphere—old houses, sprawling bungalows, foreign hotels, historic neighbourhoods—and Roy really understands how to bring a place to life. His encounters range from mischievous and playful to deeply unsettling, and the variety keeps the pacing tight. What I appreciated most was the humour sprinkled throughout; it stops the narrative from becoming too heavy and gives the book a unique personality.
Beyond the spirits, this is also a travelogue of sorts: across time, cities, and emotional landscapes. Roy’s reflections feel sincere, and by the end you get the sense that the “ghosts” he’s talking about are not all dead. Some are memories, some are unresolved histories, and some are the strange, liminal presences we all live with.
Whether you’re sceptical or already a believer, this book works. If you’re sceptical, it’s fascinating because Roy never tries to force you to accept anything. If you believe (or are willing to), the stories are immersive and oddly comforting.
5/5
What kept me hooked was how matter-of-fact Roy is about the bizarre. He isn’t trying to convert you into a believer, nor is he sensationalizing anything for effect. He recounts encounters from his childhood homes in Calcutta and Lutyens’ Delhi with the same ease that someone might talk about old family furniture—except in his case, the “furniture” occasionally moves, whispers, or looks straight at you. That casual tone makes the supernatural feel almost domestic, which somehow makes it creepier but also oddly charming.
The book is rich in atmosphere—old houses, sprawling bungalows, foreign hotels, historic neighbourhoods—and Roy really understands how to bring a place to life. His encounters range from mischievous and playful to deeply unsettling, and the variety keeps the pacing tight. What I appreciated most was the humour sprinkled throughout; it stops the narrative from becoming too heavy and gives the book a unique personality.
Beyond the spirits, this is also a travelogue of sorts: across time, cities, and emotional landscapes. Roy’s reflections feel sincere, and by the end you get the sense that the “ghosts” he’s talking about are not all dead. Some are memories, some are unresolved histories, and some are the strange, liminal presences we all live with.
Whether you’re sceptical or already a believer, this book works. If you’re sceptical, it’s fascinating because Roy never tries to force you to accept anything. If you believe (or are willing to), the stories are immersive and oddly comforting.
5/5
November 14, 2025
More Than Spooky Stories: It's Life with the Unseen.
Sanjoy K. Roy’s There’s a Ghost in My Room is a refreshing and deeply human take on the paranormal. Instead of trying to frighten readers with exaggerated horror, Author invites them into a more thoughtful space, one where the supernatural becomes part of the rhythm of daily life. This approach transforms the book from a simple collection of ghost stories into a reflection on the mysterious layers of existence that most of us ignore or rationalize away.
What makes the book truly engaging is author himself. His voice is honest, curious, and grounded in skepticism. He never forces belief, nor does he lean on dramatic effects. Each encounter he recounts, whether an unexplained presence, a sudden intuition, or an eerie coincidence, feels authentic precisely because of his restraint. The experiences are described with a sincerity that allows readers to decide for themselves what to make of them.
The book’s deeper theme is integration rather than fear. Author suggests that the supernatural is not a world apart but an extension of our own reality. He approaches the unknown not as an enemy but as something that deserves . This quiet acceptance, mixed with a touch of humor, makes his narrative stand out from typical ghost literature.
For readers, this book becomes a bridge between belief and skepticism. It invites reflection on how much of life remains unseen and how mystery itself can coexist with reason. There’s a Ghost in My Room reminds us that the world is not limited to what we can measure and that wonder can sometimes be found in the unexplainable.
December 14, 2025
There's a Ghost in My Room: Living with the Supernatural by Sanjoy K. Roy is the collection of autobiographical stories where the author takes the readers to different phases of his life where he has experienced the supernatural at multiple places- from his ancestral home in Calcutta, the historical lands of Khajuraho, the valley of Nainital to his home in Delhi and a lot more in between.
As someone who has spent seven years in a hotel, I have had my share of hearing the ghost stories from my seniors, batchmates and juniors, and I must say that made this genre quite interesting for me. And so I was excited to read this.
Roy not only narrates the story as mere interactions, but takes the readers on the journey of his family history and anecdotes, giving a wider lens to look into his life, and with the addition of the history of the places, the details of the food, the humour and the adventure, the stories become more personal and palpable.
Roy mentions in the Author's Note in the beginning itself that his stories and experiences are his realities, and he leaves it to the readers to draw their own conclusions-
"My stories are my reality—or certainly an interpretation of events that Puneeta and I and our larger circle of family and friends have experienced. How much has been
reimagined from our peculiar perspectives is difficult to say."
I loved reading Roy's writing - easy language, personal narration, short chapters and enough substance for the genre of supernatural. But at the same time, as someone who has listened to a lot of them in a hostel, I would have liked to see it in more detail.
As someone who has spent seven years in a hotel, I have had my share of hearing the ghost stories from my seniors, batchmates and juniors, and I must say that made this genre quite interesting for me. And so I was excited to read this.
Roy not only narrates the story as mere interactions, but takes the readers on the journey of his family history and anecdotes, giving a wider lens to look into his life, and with the addition of the history of the places, the details of the food, the humour and the adventure, the stories become more personal and palpable.
Roy mentions in the Author's Note in the beginning itself that his stories and experiences are his realities, and he leaves it to the readers to draw their own conclusions-
"My stories are my reality—or certainly an interpretation of events that Puneeta and I and our larger circle of family and friends have experienced. How much has been
reimagined from our peculiar perspectives is difficult to say."
I loved reading Roy's writing - easy language, personal narration, short chapters and enough substance for the genre of supernatural. But at the same time, as someone who has listened to a lot of them in a hostel, I would have liked to see it in more detail.
December 1, 2025
This isn't a collection of campfire tales it's a memoir of a life lived with one foot in another world. From the age of five, when he met a spirit in his Calcutta home, Sanjoy Roy has moved through life aware of the presences most of us never notice.
What makes this book so compelling is how matter-of-fact these encounters are. For the author, sensing spirits isn't extraordinary it's as normal as noticing the weather. He describes meeting everything from playful spirits who just want attention to troubled souls who need help moving on. The stories span decades and countries, from Delhi bungalows to foreign cities, yet each feels grounded and real.
The writing doesn't try to scare you. Instead, it draws you into seeing the world through Sanjoy's eyes a world where the supernatural is simply part of daily life. Whether he's dealing with a mischievous spirit or helping a lost soul find peace, his approach is always practical and often surprisingly funny.
Even if you don't believe in ghosts, you'll find yourself pulled into these stories. The author's calm, honest storytelling makes the impossible feel possible. By the end, you might not start seeing ghosts yourself, but you'll certainly look at quiet rooms and old houses a little differently.
Perfect for anyone who enjoys real-life stories with a touch of mystery, this book is a unique glimpse into a world most of us never get to see.
What makes this book so compelling is how matter-of-fact these encounters are. For the author, sensing spirits isn't extraordinary it's as normal as noticing the weather. He describes meeting everything from playful spirits who just want attention to troubled souls who need help moving on. The stories span decades and countries, from Delhi bungalows to foreign cities, yet each feels grounded and real.
The writing doesn't try to scare you. Instead, it draws you into seeing the world through Sanjoy's eyes a world where the supernatural is simply part of daily life. Whether he's dealing with a mischievous spirit or helping a lost soul find peace, his approach is always practical and often surprisingly funny.
Even if you don't believe in ghosts, you'll find yourself pulled into these stories. The author's calm, honest storytelling makes the impossible feel possible. By the end, you might not start seeing ghosts yourself, but you'll certainly look at quiet rooms and old houses a little differently.
Perfect for anyone who enjoys real-life stories with a touch of mystery, this book is a unique glimpse into a world most of us never get to see.
December 14, 2025
There’s a Ghost in My Room is Roy’s exploration of the supernatural through the lens of his own experiences and India’s rich ghost lore.
Roy, best known as a festival director and cultural commentator, insists he is a skeptic. Yet, his encounters with inexplicable phenomena compelled him to write about them.
The book draws from decades of travel, personal stories, and cultural memory, weaving together eerie anecdotes with humor and clarity.
Roy doesn’t claim belief in ghosts; instead, he emphasizes the power of experience. His narrative invites readers to reflect on their own brushes with the uncanny.
The book situates ghost stories within India’s diverse traditions- rural legends, urban myths, and family tales-making it both entertaining and anthropological.
Unlike sensational horror writing, Roy’s prose is warm, conversational, and often humorous, which makes the supernatural approachable rather than terrifying.
He suggests that all of us have an “antenna” tuned to presences in another dimension, nudging readers to consider the boundaries of perception.
Each chapter feels like sitting with a friend who’s recounting strange but believable experiences.
Roy’s refusal to fully embrace belief keeps the narrative grounded, appealing to both believers and skeptics.
The book doubles as a window into India’s ghost lore, making it valuable for readers interested in folklore and anthropology.
Roy, best known as a festival director and cultural commentator, insists he is a skeptic. Yet, his encounters with inexplicable phenomena compelled him to write about them.
The book draws from decades of travel, personal stories, and cultural memory, weaving together eerie anecdotes with humor and clarity.
Roy doesn’t claim belief in ghosts; instead, he emphasizes the power of experience. His narrative invites readers to reflect on their own brushes with the uncanny.
The book situates ghost stories within India’s diverse traditions- rural legends, urban myths, and family tales-making it both entertaining and anthropological.
Unlike sensational horror writing, Roy’s prose is warm, conversational, and often humorous, which makes the supernatural approachable rather than terrifying.
He suggests that all of us have an “antenna” tuned to presences in another dimension, nudging readers to consider the boundaries of perception.
Each chapter feels like sitting with a friend who’s recounting strange but believable experiences.
Roy’s refusal to fully embrace belief keeps the narrative grounded, appealing to both believers and skeptics.
The book doubles as a window into India’s ghost lore, making it valuable for readers interested in folklore and anthropology.
January 1, 2026
There’s a Ghost in My Room by Sanjoy K. Roy is a warm, engaging memoir that approaches the supernatural not with fear, but with curiosity, humour, and lived experience. Drawing from encounters that span his childhood in Calcutta to homes and travels across India and abroad, Roy recounts apparitions and unexplained presences as an ordinary part of life rather than sensational horror. What makes the book compelling is its tone—conversational, reflective, and gently skeptical. Roy never insists on belief; instead, he places faith in experience, that invites readers to decide for themselves.
The narrative moves fluidly between personal memory, family history, cultural lore, and travel writing. Ghost stories are situated within India’s rich tapestry of urban myths, rural legends, and inherited beliefs, giving the book an almost anthropological depth. Rich period details, food, humour, and anecdotes make each chapter feel like listening to a friend recount strange yet believable moments late into the night. Rather than terrifying, the supernatural here feels intimate and human. There’s a Ghost in My Room is less about proving ghosts exist and more about exploring how mystery quietly coexists with everyday life.
The narrative moves fluidly between personal memory, family history, cultural lore, and travel writing. Ghost stories are situated within India’s rich tapestry of urban myths, rural legends, and inherited beliefs, giving the book an almost anthropological depth. Rich period details, food, humour, and anecdotes make each chapter feel like listening to a friend recount strange yet believable moments late into the night. Rather than terrifying, the supernatural here feels intimate and human. There’s a Ghost in My Room is less about proving ghosts exist and more about exploring how mystery quietly coexists with everyday life.
January 11, 2026
S anjoy K Roy’s works with the calm assurance of a writer who knows that the supernatural is most unsettling when it sits beside the ordinary. He is not interested in staging fear, only in tracing the strange ways in which intuition, memory and belief shape a life devoted to art and enterprise. The ghosts in the book do not jump out; they linger like half-familiar voices that accompany him through years of travel, creative gambles and personal upheavals.
Roy’s world is built through movement: shifting cities, shifting projects, shifting crises. Yet the narrative keeps returning to the steadiness offered by his wife Puneeta, whose presence becomes the emotional anchor that lets the story explore vulnerability without sentimentality. Their relationship adds a human gravity to the memoir’s meditations on risk, resilience and the unseen forces that guide or disturb our paths.
Roy’s encounters with spirits are woven into his reflections on culture, politics and creativity, blurring the line between haunting and heritage.
There Is a Ghost in My Room is atmospheric and unexpectedly tender. It lingers because it recognises that the most persistent ghosts are not apparitions but the histories, instincts and shadows we continue to carry
Roy’s world is built through movement: shifting cities, shifting projects, shifting crises. Yet the narrative keeps returning to the steadiness offered by his wife Puneeta, whose presence becomes the emotional anchor that lets the story explore vulnerability without sentimentality. Their relationship adds a human gravity to the memoir’s meditations on risk, resilience and the unseen forces that guide or disturb our paths.
Roy’s encounters with spirits are woven into his reflections on culture, politics and creativity, blurring the line between haunting and heritage.
There Is a Ghost in My Room is atmospheric and unexpectedly tender. It lingers because it recognises that the most persistent ghosts are not apparitions but the histories, instincts and shadows we continue to carry
January 11, 2026
If you are curious and interested in reading spooky stories, tales of haunted places and people who exist in the other dimensions but their presence can be felt often then you may want to catch this book.
"There's a Ghost in my Room" is a travelogue which contains a series of events during various trips by the author across India. He feels that he can somehow experience the presence of dead people around him, their pleas and threats. His first experience happened when he was only 5 years old. As he grew up, he began to interrogate more into this and this book is a result of it.
Through this book, the author takes us to various places and events that happened with him and his family, events that I found shocking and scary. Not only him, but his wife and children also became victims of these unnatural occurrences for which no one had any answers.
I picked this book in the hope of finding spooky and eerie vibes through and through but the book isn't just about that and this left me a bit disappointed. But if you are someone who's interested in reading travelogue with good writing and thrilling twists then you should definitely consider picking this.
"There's a Ghost in my Room" is a travelogue which contains a series of events during various trips by the author across India. He feels that he can somehow experience the presence of dead people around him, their pleas and threats. His first experience happened when he was only 5 years old. As he grew up, he began to interrogate more into this and this book is a result of it.
Through this book, the author takes us to various places and events that happened with him and his family, events that I found shocking and scary. Not only him, but his wife and children also became victims of these unnatural occurrences for which no one had any answers.
I picked this book in the hope of finding spooky and eerie vibes through and through but the book isn't just about that and this left me a bit disappointed. But if you are someone who's interested in reading travelogue with good writing and thrilling twists then you should definitely consider picking this.
January 14, 2026
His exquisite writing complements the rich history and the periodic commentary he presented in his book. Sanjoy Roy 's memoir doesn't feel like a memoir, his witty narration style with a dash of humour makes a delicious conversation with readers.
The book starts with his childhood memories that revived nostalgia, Jorasanko, and the north Kolkata, the typical Bengali family and zamindar's lifestyle felt like a warm hug. The lifestyle he depicted in the book will wrap you in a delectable sensation and gives you an aching desire to live life in that era but sadly Kolkata lost that lifestyle in the craze of globalisation.
As you get into the book you will realise the air is thick with Historical documentations, 1980's Delhi, the unrest time and unreal creatures blended suspense with spooky vibes. Then I stumbled upon the Khajuraho chapter and I found there's no way to put down the book.
This book is a riveting amalgamation of magical writing, periodic commentary, intense life experience and humourous story telling is chef's kiss.
If you are thinking how to start February, pickup this book and let yourself loose inside the pages.
The book starts with his childhood memories that revived nostalgia, Jorasanko, and the north Kolkata, the typical Bengali family and zamindar's lifestyle felt like a warm hug. The lifestyle he depicted in the book will wrap you in a delectable sensation and gives you an aching desire to live life in that era but sadly Kolkata lost that lifestyle in the craze of globalisation.
As you get into the book you will realise the air is thick with Historical documentations, 1980's Delhi, the unrest time and unreal creatures blended suspense with spooky vibes. Then I stumbled upon the Khajuraho chapter and I found there's no way to put down the book.
This book is a riveting amalgamation of magical writing, periodic commentary, intense life experience and humourous story telling is chef's kiss.
If you are thinking how to start February, pickup this book and let yourself loose inside the pages.
May 25, 2026
I borrowed this from my dad, who was gifted the signed copy in Jaipur. I enjoyed the warm recounting of all the travel adventures - they successfully prodded the travel bug awake in me - and I must confess to also enjoying all the name dropping - especially when he just casually mentioned he was the primary witness to SRK’s court marriage or that NYC evening when he’s enjoying a glass of wine at Mira Nair’s - and ofcourse I envied the easy parenting style of the 90s. I found the history fascinating too. Sometimes I forget that our parents have lived through a way more tumultuous political climate than we are in currently and this was a good reminder.
I don’t think I got much out of all the paranormal incidents- that is something I’d rather read in an epic fantasy- and I didn’t particularly care for the college escapades. I wished there was more to read on what I seriously admired - the vision and execution that bringing Indian visual arts to an international audience involved, back at the beginning.
I don’t think I got much out of all the paranormal incidents- that is something I’d rather read in an epic fantasy- and I didn’t particularly care for the college escapades. I wished there was more to read on what I seriously admired - the vision and execution that bringing Indian visual arts to an international audience involved, back at the beginning.
January 12, 2026
There’s a Ghost in My Room. What an intriguing title!
This memoir of the author Sanjoy K. Roy is a personal account of memories shaped by the supernatural. He takes us through his early encounters with spirits, from a childhood home in Calcutta to later experiences in Delhi and beyond. The book moves across places and decades, presenting these moments as a natural part of his life rather.
The writing is simple and still impactful. The supernatural encounters seem routine rather than frightening. I also attended the prestigious launch of this book, that made me even more interested in knowing more about what's inside.
After finishing through the book there's one thing that I can conclude : the author is one storyteller. This is a book that works best when read with an open mind. It may not convince everyone, but it offers an interesting perspective on belief, and how the unexplained can quietly exist alongside everyday life.
This memoir of the author Sanjoy K. Roy is a personal account of memories shaped by the supernatural. He takes us through his early encounters with spirits, from a childhood home in Calcutta to later experiences in Delhi and beyond. The book moves across places and decades, presenting these moments as a natural part of his life rather.
The writing is simple and still impactful. The supernatural encounters seem routine rather than frightening. I also attended the prestigious launch of this book, that made me even more interested in knowing more about what's inside.
After finishing through the book there's one thing that I can conclude : the author is one storyteller. This is a book that works best when read with an open mind. It may not convince everyone, but it offers an interesting perspective on belief, and how the unexplained can quietly exist alongside everyday life.
November 10, 2025
Sanjoy K. Roy’s There Is a Ghost in My Room: Living with the Supernatural is far more than a collection of ghost stories. It’s a lyrical memoir, a cultural archive, and a meditation on memory, belonging, and the spectral residue of childhood. For those of us who grew up in old Indian homes—where courtyards whispered secrets and staircases invited dread—Roy’s narrative feels like a homecoming. His ghosts are not just apparitions; they are echoes of joint families, ancestral homes, and the slow, textured life of a bygone India. Charudutta Panigrahi
January 16, 2026
The “ghost” in the room is not merely a supernatural presence; it becomes a powerful metaphor for the past that refuses to leave us. Roy skillfully blurs the line between the real and the imagined, making readers question whether the apparition is external or a projection of inner turmoil. The prose is simple yet evocative, creating an atmosphere of silence, stillness, and unease that lingers long after the final page.
December 4, 2025
I have marked it as ‘finished’ but left it halfway. Tried my level best, but NO. It didn’t interest me.
The first story itself was extremely disappointing. It was like a child’s play.
There’s nothing really like ghost stories.
The first story itself was extremely disappointing. It was like a child’s play.
There’s nothing really like ghost stories.
December 18, 2025
This book was a spontaneous and impulsive buy. There's a Ghost in My Room: Living with the Supernatural is essentially a travelogue of sorts, with a sprinkling of paranormal as per the author's personal feelings and experiences. To be honest, if you like travelogues, this is definitely a good, light read of a book. however the "Paranormal" part falls short. The style of writing is quirky and witty, just like the author himself.
December 30, 2025
There’s a Ghost in My Room by Sanjoy K. Roy is a personal account of living with unexplained, paranormal experiences. The idea itself is intriguing, especially because the author insists these incidents are real and not fictional.
The writing is simple and conversational, almost like listening to someone narrate their experiences late at night. Some moments do feel eerie and unsettling, but the fear is more psychological than outright scary.
That said, for me, it was an okayish read. Interesting in parts, repetitive in others. It works if you’re curious about real paranormal experiences, but don’t expect intense horror or a fast-paced narrative.
A decent pick for curiosity readers
The writing is simple and conversational, almost like listening to someone narrate their experiences late at night. Some moments do feel eerie and unsettling, but the fear is more psychological than outright scary.
That said, for me, it was an okayish read. Interesting in parts, repetitive in others. It works if you’re curious about real paranormal experiences, but don’t expect intense horror or a fast-paced narrative.
A decent pick for curiosity readers
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