These must-read works by Indian authors will help you explore the rich tapestry of Indian literature and make the ideal coffee break companions. India has a strong literary history with a variety of voices and tales that appeal to readers of all backgrounds. These ten fascinating novels by Indian authors are sure to enhance your coffee experience with their gripping narratives and insightful observations.
- The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy
Immerse yourself in Roy’s lyrical style and moving story of family, love, and societal restraints in Kerala.
- The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga
Follow the darkly comedic story of Balram Halwai, a driver who rises from poverty to become a wealthy entrepreneur in contemporary India. - Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri
Explore the immigrant experience, cultural identity, and human connection with depth and sensitivity by reading Lahiri’s collection of short stories.
- Midnight’s Children by Salman Rushdie
Enter a magical realist story that weaves together the lives of children born on August 15, 1947, at exactly midnight, with the events of India’s post-independence past. - The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
Experience the Mahabharata through the perspective of Panchaali, also known as Draupadi, as this exquisitely retold ancient story explores themes of love, sacrifice, and destiny.
- A Suitable Boy by Vikram Seth
Explore the lives and relationships of four families as they negotiate politics, love, and social expectations in Seth’s epic story, which is set in post-independence India.
- The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri
Explore the journey of Gogol Ganguli, a young man attempting to identify his identity in the face of familial expectations while caught between his American upbringing and Bengali background.
- Five Point Someone by Chetan Bhagat
This novel, which appeals to young readers, tells the funny and perceptive tale of three friends negotiating the demands of student life at an Indian engineering college. - English, August: An Indian Story by Upamanyu Chatterjee
Follow the journey of Agastya Sen, a young government servant stationed in a small Indian hamlet, as he struggles with existential issues, bureaucracy, and identity.
- The Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai
Enter the world of Sai, an orphaned child living with her grandfather in the Himalayas, as Desai tells a moving story of love, loss, and cultural exile.
Conclusion
The stories in these ten volumes by Indian authors range widely, from moving family dramas to perceptive examinations of Indian society and culture. Whether you enjoy modern stories, historical epics, or mythological retellings, these books will add distinctive characters and stimulating concepts to your cafe experiences. Take a seat in a comfortable corner with a cup of coffee, and begin your literary exploration of the rich tapestry of Indian literature.
