10 Must-Read Novels by Top Indian Authors in English
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Indian literature in English has blossomed over the years, offering a myriad of voices and stories that capture the essence of India’s multifaceted reality.
From historical narratives to contemporary tales, Indian authors have contributed significantly to the global literary scene.
This article explores 10 must-read novels by top Indian authors in English, each a masterpiece in its own right.
These novels not only provide a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Indian culture and history but also showcase the diverse storytelling techniques of their authors.
Whether you are a seasoned reader of Indian literature or new to the genre, these novels are essential reads that promise to engage, enlighten, and entertain.
1. The Unproposed Guy
In ‘The Unproposed Guy,’ a standout work among the top 10 must-read novels by top Indian authors in English, authors Bhavik Sarkhedi and Suhana Bhambhani come together to elevate the standards of Indian writing. Sarkhedi, celebrated by Google as a distinguished content writer, and Bhambhani, marking her literary debut with a bestseller, blend their creative prowess in this novel. Sarkhedi’s path in the literary world shines as a beacon for budding writers, while Bhambhani establishes her footprint with this inaugural success.
The essence of the novel is captured through its protagonist, Kevin, an everyman with a simple upbringing. His journey through numerous romantic endeavors leads to a profound self-realization and metamorphosis. Kevin’s life, reflective of common human experiences, is interwoven with elements of humor, emotional depth, love, and the innate desire for connection. His genuine and emotionally resonant character engages readers as he channels his personal struggles into the art of stand-up comedy, transforming his narrative into an uplifting experience.
More than a story of humor and love, this book serves as a compelling narrative about perseverance and resilience. It underscores the significance of steadfastness in overcoming obstacles and motivates readers to pursue their dreams with unyielding passion, exemplifying the indomitable nature of the human spirit and the fruits of relentless effort and commitment.
The UNPROPOSED Guy
2. Midnight’s Children
Saleem Sinai’s life unfolds at the very moment India steps into independence at midnight, intertwining his fate with the country’s future. Born among 1,000 ‘midnight’s children’, each endowed with extraordinary abilities, Saleem belongs to a special cohort. These gifts, a mix of blessing and burden, entangle them in the creation and experience of their times. Saleem’s distinct talents, a heightened sense of smell, and an exceptionally discerning inner ear draw us into a captivating family saga set amidst the diverse backdrop of 20th-century India.
Sir Ahmed Salman Rushdie, an esteemed novelist and essayist of Indian origin, has significantly influenced the literary world. His most provocative book, “The Satanic Verses,” gained international notoriety, sparking intense debates and leading to bans in various countries. The novel ignited protests, some escalating to violence, especially within Muslim communities. For his outstanding contributions to literature, Rushdie was awarded a knighthood in June 2007, recognizing his “services to literature.”
Source: amazon.in
3. JAYA
“Jaya” by Devdutt Pattanaik is an innovative retelling of the Mahabharata, one of India’s greatest epics. Pattanaik skillfully distills this complex tale into an engaging and accessible narrative, highlighting key stories and characters, making it a standout among books by Indian authors. Known for his mastery of mythology, Pattanaik is a celebrated author and mythologist renowned for bringing ancient Indian myths and epics to life through simple, contemporary language.
His approach has opened these timeless stories to a broad audience, offering a fresh perspective on India’s rich mythological heritage. Also, making it one of the 10 must-read novels by top Indian authors in English. Pattanaik’s “Jaya” not only educates but also entertains, providing an essential read for anyone interested in Indian mythology and its enduring relevance.
Source: amazon.in
4. The Palace of Illusions
Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s ‘The Palace of Illusions’ masterfully reinterprets the legendary Mahabharata through Draupadi’s eyes, marking it as a notable work among Indian authors. This novel brilliantly captures Draupadi’s internal struggles, emotions, and viewpoints, adding a fresh, insightful perspective to the epic’s traditional narrative. Divakaruni’s skilled storytelling vividly brings ancient India to life while weaving in universal themes of love, sacrifice, and destiny.
A renowned author, Divakaruni is adept at blending mythology, history, and contemporary issues, often reflecting her Indo-American heritage in her writing. Her novels, renowned for their strong female leads and emotionally engaging plots, have earned global acclaim, resonating deeply with readers across cultures.
Source: amazon.in
5. The God of Small Things
“The God of Small Things,” a profound and evocative novel by Arundhati Roy, takes the reader into the intricate world of familial ties and social taboos in Kerala, India. Published in 1997, this debut novel won the Booker Prize and quickly became a global sensation for its poignant storytelling and lyrical prose. Roy masterfully navigates through the lives of fraternal twins Rahel and Estha and their complex family dynamics, set against the backdrop of India’s rigid caste system and political unrest.
The novel is a tapestry of past and present events, weaving a tragic tale of forbidden love and the consequences of crossing societal boundaries. Roy’s narrative style is unique, characterized by non-linear storytelling and poetic language, which beautifully captures the nuances of memory and emotion. She deftly explores themes of love, betrayal, and the loss of innocence, while also delving into the harsh realities of discrimination and the impact of historical and cultural forces on individual lives, making it to the list of 10 must-read novels by top Indian authors in English.
“The God of Small Things” is not just a story about a family; it’s a commentary on the complexities of human relationships and the subtle ways in which societal norms shape our lives. It’s a powerful exploration of how small, seemingly insignificant things can have profound impacts on our lives. This novel remains a seminal work in Indian literature, continuing to captivate and inspire readers with its haunting beauty and emotional depth.
Source: amazon.in
6. A Fine Balance
As one of the top 10 must-read novels by top Indian authors in English, “A Fine Balance” by Rohinton Mistry is a fascinating story that explores the complexity and unrest of India in the middle of the 1970s, during the “Emergency,” a period of intense political unrest. In this context, the novel’s four central characters—the widowed seamstress Dina Dalal, the college student Maneck Kohlah, and the two tailors Ishvar and Omprakash Darji—examine themes of optimism, despair, and the human spirit’s capacity for resiliency.
Mistry skillfully combines these disparate tales into a tapestry that depicts the larger political and social problems facing India at the period. The lives of the characters, who come from a variety of backgrounds, connect in tragic and endearing ways. The book offers a powerful critique of the caste system, the misery of the impoverished, and the government’s callous use of power.
Mistry crafts an immersive world that pulls the reader into the everyday hardships and little pleasures of the characters through vivid descriptions and sympathetic narratives. Not only is “A Fine Balance” a tale of perseverance in the face of hardship, but it also offers a gripping analysis of the precarious balance that exists between hopelessness and optimism, love and loss, and survival and destruction. The book is a compelling illustration of how the human spirit can persevere in the face of extreme adversity.
Source: amazon.in
7. The Blue Umbrella
“The Blue Umbrella” by Ruskin Bond makes the list of the 10 must-read novels by top Indian authors in English due to its charming and heartwarming tale set in the serene hills of Himachal Pradesh, India. Published in 1974, this short and delightful novel has since become a classic in children’s literature, appreciated by readers of all ages. Bond, known for his simplistic yet profound storytelling, weaves a narrative that captures the essence of rural Indian life through the story of a young girl named Binya.
The novel revolves around Binya and her prized possession, a beautiful blue silk umbrella, which she acquires in exchange for her leopard-claw pendant. The umbrella, bright and lovely, soon becomes the envy of the entire village, especially of Ram Bharosa, the shopkeeper. The story unfolds as it explores themes of innocence, envy, kindness, and the simple joys of life.
Bond’s writing is elegantly straightforward and rich with imagery, bringing the scenic beauty of the Indian hills and the simplicity of village life to the forefront. The characters are sketched with warmth and realism, making them relatable and endearing. “The Blue Umbrella” is not just a story about a girl and her umbrella; it is a portrayal of human emotions and a reminder of the value of compassion and contentment. This novel, with its timeless narrative and universal appeal, continues to be a beloved read, reflecting the purity of heart and the innocence of childhood.
Source: amazon.in
8. The Great Indian Novel
In his satirical masterpiece, Shashi Tharoor ingeniously retells the Hindu epic Mahabharata, setting it against the backdrop of the Indian Independence Movement and the tumultuous decades that followed. This novel stands out in contemporary Indian literature as a thrilling and insightful read. Tharoor brilliantly recasts key figures from India’s freedom struggle and political landscape as characters from the 2,000-year-old epic, drawing intriguing parallels between mythology and modern history.
Tharoor’s narrative is a clever blend of historical facts and mythical lore, offering a unique lens through which to view India’s past and present. His skillful storytelling weaves complex themes of power, politics, and morality, making the novel an engaging experience for both those well-versed in Indian history and newcomers to the subject. The book challenges and entertains, providing a fresh perspective on familiar events and figures from India’s rich tapestry.
This work by Tharoor is not just a novel; it’s a bold reinterpretation of history through the prism of myth, making it a compelling read. It’s a testament to Tharoor’s prowess as a writer and his ability to transform traditional narratives into relevant, contemporary tales. This novel is an essential read for anyone interested in Indian literature, history, and the art of storytelling.
Source: amazon.in
9. A Suitable Boy
The story of Lata, whose mother wants her to marry “A Suitable Boy”, is at the center of Vikram Seth’s post-independence novel A Suitable Boy. Once readers get into it, the novel has a lot to offer them, hence, making it to the list of 10 must-read novels by top Indian authors in English. It discusses individuals, social conventions, religion, the arts, history, love, and skills. In the book, two storylines are told simultaneously. It also tells the story of an odd romance. Millions of copies of the book have been sold globally, making it the longest novel ever written in English by an Indian author.
Source: amazon.in
10. Train to Pakistan
The partition of India is compellingly portrayed in Khushwant Singh’s book Train To Pakistan. The novel explores the human perspective while highlighting a sense of terror and realism. It’s amazing how Singh depicted a village where a loving and peaceful community devolves into one motivated by fear and hatred. The work is elevated and made even more engaging to read by the character descriptions. The book was first published in 1956 and has since been made into a movie and a Tamil translation.
Source: amazon.in
Conclusion
The novels listed in this article represent the rich and varied tapestry of Indian literature in English. From historical epics to modern-day romances, these works capture the essence of India’s diverse culture, intricate social fabric, and complex history. Each author brings a unique perspective and narrative style, contributing significantly to the global literary landscape.
These novels are not just stories; they are reflections of the human experience set against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving nation. For anyone looking to delve into Indian literature, these 10 must-read novels by top Indian authors in English are an excellent starting point. They promise to transport readers to different realms, offering insights, entertainment, and a deeper understanding of one of the world’s most vibrant cultures. This article offers a comprehensive overview of 10 must-read novels by top Indian authors in English, showcasing the depth and diversity of Indian literature.
FAQs
1. What makes “The Unproposed Guy” special among the top 10 Indian novels in English?
“The Unproposed Guy” is special among the top 10 Indian novels in English for its collaborative approach by Bhavik Sarkhedi and Suhana Bhambhani, offering a relatable and engaging story with humor, emotion, and love.
2. Is this all books are suitable for everyone to read?
Yes, according to the article, all 10 novels by top indian authors in english books listed, including “The Unproposed Guy,” are suitable for everyone to read. Each book offers a diverse range of themes and narratives that can be enjoyed by readers of all ages and backgrounds.
3. Who are the author who wrote the interesting story of “The Unproposed Guy”?
“The Unproposed Guy” is authored by Bhavik Sarkhedi and Suhana Bhambhani, making it one of the novels by top Indian authors in English.
4. How does “The Unproposed Guy” relate to everyday life, as mentioned in the article?
“The Unproposed Guy,” authored by Bhavik Sarkhedi and Suhana Bhambhani, is one of the novels by top Indian authors in English. It resonates with everyday life by intertwining relatable elements such as humor, emotional depth, love, and the quest for connection, offering readers a captivating reflection of their own experiences.
5. What are a few of the latest and well-liked Indian novels written in English?
Some recent and popular Indian novels in English include “The Unproposed Guy,” “Midnight’s Children,” “Jaya,” “The Palace of Illusions,” “The God of Small Things,” “A Fine Balance,” “The Blue Umbrella,” “The Great Indian Novel,” “A Suitable Boy,” and “Train to Pakistan.”
