In the vast realm of literature, Indian authors have gifted the world with an exquisite tapestry of words, weaving captivating tales that transcend borders and cultures. Their narratives evoke emotions, spark imagination, and shed light on the diverse facets of the human experience. In this collection, we bring you a handpicked selection of 15 Bestselling Books penned by Indian authors you can’t miss. These literary gems encompass a wide range of genres, from heart-wrenching literary fiction to spellbinding historical epics, thought-provoking non-fiction to soul-stirring poetry. As you delve into these pages, you will traverse enchanting landscapes, delve into the complexities of human relationships, and grapple with profound philosophical questions. Immerse yourself in the rich storytelling and evocative prose that grace the works of these talented Indian authors.

Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese

In this sweeping and emotionally riveting novel, we are immersed in an enthralling family saga that spans the continents of Africa and America. Marion and Shiva Stone, twin brothers with an extraordinary bond, are born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, a result of a clandestine relationship between a captivating Indian nun and a bold British surgeon. Bereft of their parents at a young age, their lives become intertwined with the backdrop of an impending revolution in Ethiopia. However, it is a love triangle that drives them apart, leading Marion to seek solace in America, where he finds himself as an intern in a struggling New York City hospital. As Marion’s past catches up with him, he must confront the two men he trusted least—the father who abandoned him and the brother who betrayed him—to overcome the devastating challenges that threaten his very existence.

The Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai

Nestled at the base of Mount Kanchenjunga, amidst the unforgiving grandeur of the Himalayas, stands a dilapidated dwelling that houses a weary judge yearning for tranquil retirement. However, his plans are disrupted when his orphaned granddaughter, Sai, unexpectedly arrives at his doorstep. The judge’s cook, lost in his own thoughts about his son Biju, who toils away in various gritty New York City eateries, halfheartedly assumes responsibility for the young girl. In Kiran Desai’s remarkable novel, praised with resounding acclaim, a tapestry of joy and despair unfolds. Against the backdrop of colonialism’s lingering echoes, Desai’s characters confront pivotal choices that reverberate with the collision of tradition and the modern world, illuminating the intricate consequences that shape their lives.

Unaccustomed Earth by Jhumpa Lahiri

From the renowned Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Jhumpa Lahiri, comes a collection of eight emotionally profound stories that span across various locations, including Cambridge, Seattle, India, and Thailand. Delving into the intricacies of familial and romantic relationships, Lahiri weaves tales that explore the depths of love, secrets, guilt, and the intertwining threads of destiny. In the captivating title story, Ruma, a young mother, discovers her father’s hidden love affair while witnessing the special bond he forms with her son. Another tale, “A Choice of Accommodations,” takes a dark turn as a husband’s attempt to create a romantic getaway unravels during a wedding celebration. Through luminous prose and profound insights into the human heart and mind, Lahiri showcases her mastery in Unaccustomed Earth, demonstrating once again why she is hailed as a remarkable storyteller at the zenith of her literary prowess.

The Space Between Us by Thrity Umrigar

Amidst the backdrop of contemporary India, this poignant tale revolves around two captivating and profoundly human women. Sera Dubash, an affluent Parsi housewife, conceals the pain and disillusionment of her abusive marriage behind the façade of opulence. Meanwhile, Bhima, an uneducated and resilient woman burdened by a life marred by sorrow and tragedy, has faithfully served the Dubash family for over two decades. Their lives intertwine as the stark contrast between their experiences unfolds. In this evocative narrative, the author delves into the complex emotions and hidden struggles of these two remarkable women, illuminating the profound impact of social class, relationships, and resilience in shaping their destinies.

The Glass Palace by Amitav Ghosh

In this captivating novel set against the backdrop of the British invasion of Burma in 1885, the reader is transported into a world of political upheaval and social turbulence. The protagonist, Rajkumar, a young boy from humble beginnings, finds himself swept up in the chaos of the times, eventually rising to power and establishing an empire in the teak forests of Burma. As the royal family is forced into exile, Rajkumar forms a profound connection with Dolly, a young woman in the Burmese Queen’s court, whose love becomes a defining force in his life. Years later, as a wealthy man, he embarks on a quest to find her. Through the lens of their intertwined destinies, the author sheds light on the struggles that have shaped the present-day landscapes of Burma, India, and Malaya.

The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri

With Interpreter of Maladies, Jhumpa Lahiri emerged as a brilliant writer of her generation, garnering critical acclaim and prestigious awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction. Lahiri’s talent for capturing the immigrant experience and the complexities of cultural clash shines in The Namesake. The novel follows the Ganguli family’s journey from their traditional life in Calcutta to their assimilation into American society.

Ashoke and Ashima, newlyweds settled in Cambridge, Massachusetts, navigate the challenges of their new home. As their son, Gogol, grapples with his unusual name and his heritage, Lahiri’s empathetic portrayal delves into the struggle to reconcile conflicting loyalties and forge a unique identity. Lahiri’s exquisite attention to detail and poignant storytelling illuminate the significance of familial expectations and the profound process of self-discovery.

Midnight’s Children by Salman Rushdie

In the remarkable novel, Midnight’s Children, Saleem Sinai is born precisely at the stroke of midnight on August 15, 1947, coinciding with India’s momentous independence from British rule. As Saleem grows up, he discovers the extraordinary weight carried by this synchronicity. His every action reverberates across the nation, impacting the course of history itself. Bound to India’s destiny, Saleem’s life becomes intricately intertwined with his country’s struggles and triumphs.

Moreover, he shares a telepathic connection with 1,000 other individuals known as “midnight’s children,” all gifted with magical abilities and born during that fateful hour. Through an enchanting blend of family saga and a vivid portrayal of India’s landscape and people, this novel transcends boundaries, presenting a captivating portrayal of the human condition. As we revisit it twenty-five years later, Midnight’s Children remains an epochal work of fiction, showcasing the brilliance of one of our era’s greatest literary voices.

Clear Light of Day by Anita Desai

Shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize, Clear Light of Day by the acclaimed author of Fire on the Mountain delves into the intricate dynamics of the Das family. The novel centers around the strained relationships between Bimla, an ambitious yet discontented teacher caring for her mentally challenged brother, Baba, in their childhood home, and Tara, her younger sister, who leads a more ordinary life as a married woman with children. When Tara pays a visit to Bimla and Baba, long-buried memories and unresolved tensions resurface, leading to a domestic drama that unravels with profound moments of self-discovery. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Old Delhi, this immersive tale engulfs readers in another world, offering glimpses into the complexities of family, forgiveness, and the enduring power of shared history.

A suitable Boy by Vikram Seth

At its core, Vikram Seth’s novel, A Suitable Boy, is a captivating love story intertwined with the quest of Lata and her mother, Mrs. Rupa Mehra, to find a suitable husband for Lata. Set in the 1950s, against the backdrop of a newly independent India grappling with crises, the story immerses readers in the vividly imagined world of four expansive extended families. Through compelling narratives, the novel delves into the lives and romances of its characters, offering a sweeping portrayal of a diverse and evolving society.

A Suitable Boy beautifully captures the complexities of ordinary people navigating through love, ambition, societal norms, and profound challenges. It weaves together themes of humor, sadness, prejudice, reconciliation, and the intricacies of human relationships in a tale that reflects both the delicate nuances of social etiquette and the harsh realities of violence.

Train To Pakistan by Khushwant Singh

Set in the summer of 1947, Train to Pakistan by Khushwant Singh explores the tumultuous time when the state of Pakistan was being formed, leading to mass migrations and communal violence. In the village of Mano Majra, where Sikhs and Muslims have coexisted peacefully, the arrival of a haunting funeral train filled with the bodies of refugees shatters their tranquility. As the horrors of civil war engulf the village, the novel focuses on the enduring love between a Sikh boy and a Muslim girl, transcending religious divisions amidst the chaos. Train to Pakistan unravels the narrative of an isolated community plunged into the depths of religious hatred, while highlighting the resilience and strength of human connections in the face of war’s devastation.

The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga

A remarkable literary talent, The White Tiger offers a gripping tale told by an unforgettable narrator. Balram Halwai, a complex individual, serves as servant, philosopher, entrepreneur, and even murderer. Through the course of seven nights, Balram captivates us with his mesmerizing story of how he rose to success in life, relying solely on his wit. Hailing from the heart of India, Balram’s life takes a turn when he becomes a driver for a wealthy man, observing the stark contrast between his own impoverished existence and the extravagant lifestyle of his employers.

As Balram navigates a corrupt society, he unveils the hidden truths and dark realities of India, offering insights into its various layers, from call centers and religious practices to the struggles of the marginalized. With irreverence and charisma, Balram challenges conventional notions of virtue, money, and morality, showcasing that decency and ambition can still coexist in a corrupt world. The White Tiger is a daring and provocative debut that has gained international acclaim, leaving an indelible mark on the literary landscape.

The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

The Palace of Illusions presents a fresh perspective on the renowned Indian epic, the Mahabharata, through the compelling voice of Panchaali. In this reimagined tale, Panchaali, the wife of the legendary Pandava brothers, takes center stage, offering a unique interpretation of this ancient narrative. The novel follows Panchaali’s journey from her fiery birth to her role as a woman with five husbands, who are unjustly deprived of their rightful kingdom. As the Pandavas strive to regain their birthright, Panchaali becomes an unwavering companion, accompanying them through years of exile and a devastating civil war involving powerful kings across India. Amidst her strategic encounters with her mother-in-law, her intricate bond with the enigmatic Krishna, and her clandestine attraction to her husbands’ formidable enemy, Panchaali emerges as a fierce and influential figure in a world shaped by warriors, gods, and the capricious hands of destiny.

Malgudi Days by R.K. Narayan

To commemorate the centennial of acclaimed Indian writer R. K. Narayan, a collection of his stories is presented in this edition. Narayan reflects on how the vibrant characters and narratives of India are readily available to writers just by looking out the window. Malgudi Days offers a compilation of powerful and enchanting portraits that span nearly four decades, capturing the essence of both India and the human experience. This edition also features an introduction by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jhumpa Lahiri. Penguin Classics, renowned for publishing classic literature, provides readers with a diverse collection of works that span genres and time periods, accompanied by insightful introductions, notes, and translations by esteemed scholars and contemporary authors.

The Shiva Trilogy by Amish

In the ancient land of Meluha, mistakenly referred to as the Indus Valley Civilisation, the once-mighty empire faces grave challenges. The revered Saraswati River is vanishing, leaving the Suryavanshi rulers of Meluha in peril. They also confront merciless terrorist attacks from the Chandravanshis, who have formed an alliance with the sinister Nagas. Amidst this turmoil, a prophecy emerges—a hero will rise when all seems lost. Shiva, a Tibetan immigrant, finds himself unexpectedly drawn into this destiny. Uncertain of his role, Shiva must decide whether to embrace his duty and love, leading the Suryavanshis in their quest for vengeance against evil. The fate of Meluha hangs in the balance.

The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond

Described as a great blue flower on a dry brown hillside, the beautiful blue umbrella becomes a prized possession for young Binya. In exchange for her lucky pendant, she acquires this coveted item, making her the envy of the entire village, especially the shopkeeper, Ram Bharosa. The novella, The Blue Umbrella, is a delightful and humorous tale set in the scenic hills of Garhwal. Through its simple yet witty language, the story captures the essence of village life, where ordinary individuals find opportunities for heroism and redemption. It is a charming exploration of human characters and their interactions within a close-knit community.

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