100 (+1) Must-Read Books from the Rich Literature of India

Blurb:

“…it really began in the days when the Love Laws were made. The laws that lay down who should be loved, and how. And how much.” The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy, a must-read for anyone interested in the literature of India, is the story of Estha and Rahel, siblings shaped by their childhood trauma. With themes ranging from family secrets to forbidden love to caste discrimination, Roy’s Booker Prize-winning debut is an unforgettable emotional journey.

With a non-linear narrative and descriptive writing, Roy’s novel, despite being set within a small Kerala district, sharply observes the Indian society at large. It’s a story of the hauntings that inhabit a community bound by tradition and societal prohibitions. Read more about Arundhati Roy’s second novel here.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Salman Rushdie’s Midnight’s Children is a must-read for anyone curious about the crossroads of personal and national history as well as the literature of India. At its centre is Saleem Sinai, born precisely at the moment of India’s independence on August 15, 1947. Outside the symbolism, there’s more to this story. 

Saleem’s life is far from ordinary—he discovers a telepathic link with 1,000 other children born in that same hour, each with their own unique powers. Rushdie doesn’t stop there. Using quirky symbols like pickling and spittoons, he weaves themes of memory, identity, and postcolonial India’s messy complexities. Anyone exploring the literature of India must pick this Booker-winning (and even The Booker of Bookers) book. With history and fantasy merging in unforgettable ways, Midnight’s Children leaves you wondering: how much of history can we really trust? 

If you’ve read Midnight’s Children, why not explore Haroun and the Sea of Stories, The Golden House, Luka and the Fire of Life, The Moor’s Last Sigh, or The Enchantress of Florence?

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

It all kicks off when a pig’s carcass is found outside a mosque, an intentional act to stir up religious tensions in a small town in Punjab. Set against the backdrop of the 1947 Partition, Bhisham Sahni’s Tamas, one of the most compelling works in the literature of India, pulls no punches in its portrayal of the chaos and violence that erupted during that time. 

From there, the novel vividly portrays how communal violence takes over, with Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs caught in the storm. Tamas is powerful for its deeply human perspective—Sahni’s ability to show the human side of this tragedy—ordinary people trying to survive amidst the political and religious conflicts tearing them apart. Based on his own experiences during Partition, Sahni’s novel is as emotional as it is gripping, reminding us of the pain and suffering that comes when divisions are exploited for power. Read our fascinating interview with the translator of this novel, Daisy Rockwell, here.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Khushwant Singh’s Train to Pakistan takes us to Mano Majra, a small village on the India-Pakistan border, where Sikhs, Hindus, and Muslims have lived peacefully—until the Partition of India turned everything upside down. Everything changes when a train arrives, filled with the bodies of refugees killed in communal violence. 

Suddenly, the village’s calm is shattered. Singh’s novel brings us into the lives of people like Juggut Singh, a man with a criminal past, and Iqbal, an educated outsider, as they struggle with the chaos around them. The novel doesn’t just look at the violence of Partition but digs into the moral choices people face in times of fear and hatred. Part of the literature of India that refuses to sugarcoat reality, Train to Pakistan shows us both the darkness and the faint hope for redemption.

Recommended Reading: Maharaja in Denims by Khushwant Singh.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Rabindranath Tagore’s Gitanjali is a collection of 103 poems that holds a special place in the literature of India.  This collection of 103 poems, originally written in Bengali, earned Tagore the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913, making him the first non-European to win the honour. It’s the way Tagore explores spirituality—not through fear, but through love—that makes these poems beloved and timeless. 

His poems speak to a personal connection with the divine, portraying God as a beloved. The beauty of Gitanjali lies in its simplicity. Tagore’s verses aren’t limited by any religious boundaries, offering something universal, something that resonates regardless of faith. This collection is a perfect reminder that the best literature of India explores the most fundamental of things, for instance, deep, shared human emotions.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Told through the eyes of Balram Halwai, a man from a poor rural village, the novel follows his journey from servant to wealthy entrepreneur. Aravind Adiga’s The White Tiger offers a bold look at class struggle and social inequality in modern India. He climbs his way up from being a servant to a successful entrepreneur, but his rise comes with some morally questionable choices. 

Written as a letter to a Chinese official, Balram takes us through his life—his frustrations with India’s rigid caste system, his encounters with corruption, and the stark contrast between the rich and the poor. The White Tiger won the Booker Prize in 2008, offering readers an unapologetic look at the country’s socio-economic reality while reminding us why these stories are so essential to the literature of India.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Vikram Seth’s A Suitable Boy is set in post-independence, post-Partition India, right in the 1950s. In the middle is Lata Mehra, on the search for a suitable husband—a journey tangled up with political shifts, cultural traditions, and India’s first general election. But this isn’t only a love story. Through the lives of four families, Seth digs into big themes—love, family, class, and religion—all while showing the growing pains of a young democracy.

While Lata’s search is central, the novel touches on broader issues like caste discrimination, religious tensions, and social change. It’s a long read—over 1400 pages—but Seth’s storytelling keeps you turning page after page. With humour and drama woven in, A Suitable Boy is a key piece in the literature of India, giving a window into the country’s complexities while exploring the choices people make in a changing world. 

Fans of A Suitable Boy will also enjoy An Equal Music and his translation of Tulsidas’ Hanuman Chalisa.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

In The Shadow Lines, Amitav Ghosh takes us on a journey through memory, borders, and identity. The unnamed narrator moves between Calcutta, Dhaka, and London, sharing stories across decades. At the centre of the novel are his relationships with his cousin Ila, his uncle Tridib, and his grandmother Tha’mma, whose lives have all been shaped by the trauma of Partition.

But this is not just another family history. Ghosh’s story effortlessly shifts between past and present, asking us to rethink what borders and national identities really mean. The novel is part of the rich tradition of the literature of India, tackling themes like violence and nationalism through personal stories. Ghosh reminds us that borders—whether physical or emotional—are not always what they seem, making this novel an essential part of the literature of India. Don’t forget to try his other memorable books, from The Hungry Tide to Gun Island!

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Often touted as the first English novel in the literature of India, Raja Rao’s Kanthapura is set amidst the Indian independence movement but from the perspective of a small South Indian village. Achakka, an elderly woman, narrates the story of how Moorthy, a young Brahmin, returns home inspired by Gandhi’s ideas of nonviolent resistance, his goal to lead a local movement against British rule.

The novel shows villagers—who were once divided by caste—starting to unite in the fight for freedom. Moorthy stays true to Gandhi’s principles, even when it lands him in jail. But the movement doesn’t stop. The women of Kanthapura, led by Rangamma, step in and keep it alive. Kanthapura is an important piece in the literature of India for its focus on the independence struggle but also for how it challenges the caste system. Rao’s mix of myth and reality gives us a clear view of a village and a country on the brink of change.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Munshi Premchand takes us into the life of Hori Mahato, a poor farmer with one simple dream—owning a cow. For Hori, the cow is a symbol of prosperity. But no matter how hard he works, Hori stays stuck in poverty, caught in the trap of landlords, moneylenders, and a caste system that won’t let him move forward.

Godaan is a must-read classic in the literature of India for showing the everyday struggles of rural life. Hori’s story fleshes out the larger issues of caste, exploitation, and gender roles. Hori’s wife, Dhania, for example, is strong, outspoken, and constantly questioning the societal norms that Hori passively accepts. Premchand also hints at the bigger picture, touching on Gandhi’s movement and the changing political landscape. Godaan remains one of the key works in the literature of India because it gives a raw look at the realities of rural life and the struggles of the marginalised.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Shrilal Shukla’s Raag Darbari takes a hard, satirical look at post-independence rural India. In the village of Shivpalganj, where corruption and power games are a part of everyday life. We see the story through the eyes of Ranganath, a city-educated man who’s visiting his uncle, Vaidyaji—the man who quietly controls everything in the village. Vaidyaji uses his influence to manipulate local politics and the education system, keeping a chokehold on the village’s power structures. Raag Darbari’s relevance in the literature of India is for its presentation of the reality of rural life after independence. 

You’d think things would improve, but the village still runs on the same old rules, with power in the hands of a few. The humour in the novel further points out how broken the system is. The absence of women in the village’s power circles depicts the ongoing patriarchy. By mixing satire with the realities of rural politics, Raag Darbari has become a modern Hindi classic and is a key read in the literature of India to understand how much—or how little—has changed.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

You’ve likely heard of Satyajit Ray’s film adaptation of the same name, which took this story even further, but the novel itself is where it all started. It’s a look at rural life that doesn’t shy away from the harsh truths, and that’s why it’s still talked about in the literature of India today.

Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay’s Pather Panchali takes us into the world of the Roy family in a small Bengal village. Poverty is everywhere—Apu’s father, Harihar, constantly chases dreams that never seem to pan out, while his mother, Sarbajaya, tries to keep the family going despite having almost nothing. But this is also a story about the small joys that make life bearable for Apu and Durga.

However, Durga’s death changes everything, shifting the story’s tonality from one of childhood wonders to a deeper awareness of reality. That’s what Pather Panchali does best—capturing the ups and downs of life in a fundamentally realistic way. And it’s a big part of why the novel is such a key piece in the literature of India.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Kosala by Bhalchandra Nemade is the story of Pandurang Sangvikar, a young man from a rural background who’s become a part of the confusing world of city life as he pursues his education. But Pandurang feels a disconnect with everything around him. He feels lost, stuck between his rural upbringing and the new world he’s trying to fit into.

Kosala’s importance in the literature of India is in its capturing of the frustration of post-colonial youth. Pandurang quickly realises that modern education doesn’t offer the answers or the purpose he’s looking for. Nemade, without any sugarcoating, uses humour and irony to show just how far removed the system is from reality.

A key work in the literature of India, it speaks to that feeling of being lost, of trying to find your place when the world around you makes no sense.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Kurinjithen by R. Vairamuthu takes us to the Nilgiris, where the kurinji flower blooms once every twelve years. This rare bloom becomes a symbol of love, loss, and the deep bond people have with nature. We follow the lives of villagers living in harmony with the land but struggling as tradition meets modernity.

Kurinjithen is an important part of the literature of India with its blending of Tamil folklore to talk about change. The kurinji reminds us how life moves on and how beauty and traditions are fleeting. Vairamuthu shows this balance through the villagers as they try to hold on to their way of life while the world around them keeps pushing forward.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Veyi Padagalu by Viswanatha Satyanarayana is a monumental work in Telugu literature and the broader literature of India. In the village of Subbannapeta, where centuries of tradition start to crumble under the weight of modernisation. The title, which means “A Thousand Hoods,” refers to a mythical serpent symbolising dharma, with each hood standing for a core societal value. As the hoods fall, it’s clear that old ways are being replaced, and not always for the better.

The novel is a key work in the literature of India, showing the clash between caste, dharma, and Western influence, something many contemporaries of the time were concerned with. Through characters like Dharma Rao, clinging to traditional values, and Ganachari, bringing spiritual insights, the novel presents the tension between holding on to the past, facing an uncertain future, and how modernisation changes everything, even the things we thought would last forever.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

In Samskara, U.R. Ananthamurthy shows what happens when tradition clashes with real life. Naranappa’s death shakes up the whole Brahmin village. He lived with a lower-caste woman and broke all the rules, and now no one wants to perform his last rites. The Brahmins don’t want to touch it, fearing they’ll inherit his sins. Praneshacharya, the village’s spiritual leader, is expected to step up. 

But after a life of following every rule, his own beliefs come crashing down when he gets involved with Chandri, the same woman Naranappa lived with. This forces him to question everything—his values, his duty, and what it means to live by the rules he’s always upheld. Samskara is important in the literature of India because it digs into the cracks in caste and religious orthodoxy. It doesn’t offer any easy answers but shows how messy things get when rigid beliefs clash with human desires. And that’s what makes it stand out in the literature of India.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Set in 19th-century India, Saraswatichandra charts the story of a young man who walks away from everything—his family, his love, and his life—to seek something more spiritual. Saraswatichandra loves Kumud, but instead of marrying her, he chooses a different path, one focused on renunciation. His personal journey, though, reflects something bigger—the tension between modern, Western influences and traditional Indian values.

Saraswatichandra is a critical part of the literature of India because of how it digs into the tough choices between personal desires and societal expectations. The book is not (just) about love but about caste, duty, and how society reacts to change. The novel captures a time when India itself was torn between holding onto its roots and adapting to new ideas. That’s why it remains such an important work in the literature of India, combining human emotion with a sharp critique of society.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Amrita Pritam tells the story of Pooro in Pinjar, a woman whose life is turned upside down by the Partition of India. She’s abducted by Rashid, not of any fault of hers, but because of an old family feud. Overnight, she’s forced into a new life, losing her name, her identity, and becoming Hamida. Pooro’s story mirrors the experiences of countless women during Partition, who were caught between honour and violence, often abandoned by their own families.

Pinjar remains a cornerstone in the literature of India for exposing how women were reduced to symbols during the chaos of Partition. Pooro’s struggle to make sense of her new life shows the interplay of religious and societal divides and the consequences that women have to pay. The novel doesn’t shy away from showing how women were used as pawns in a much bigger game. That’s why Pinjar still stands strong in the literature of India, speaking to issues that are all too familiar, even today.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

O.V. Vijayan’s The Legends of Khasak takes us into the heart of a small village in Kerala. Ravi, burdened by guilt, escapes to start a school. But Khasak is no ordinary village, and as Ravi settles in, he encounters villagers who each have their own stories. Through these interactions, the novel touches on the larger themes of faith, destiny, and the constant tussle between tradition and change.

The Legends of Khasak is unique in the literature of India for the dexterity with which it brings together the mystical with everyday village life. The characters reflect the intricacies of rural Kerala, and there’s zero sugarcoating of the poverty or the superstitions. At the same time, the novel doesn’t shy away from showing the beauty in the simple moments either. Karma is a running theme, constantly reminding us that no action goes without consequence.

It’s no wonder The Legends of Khasak is seen as a modern classic in the literature of India. It’s the kind of book that leaves you thinking about it long after you’ve finished.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Through five distinct stories, each translated from Assamese, Indira Goswami’s Five Novellas About Women shows different shades and challenges inherent in our society—poverty, widowhood, rejection—all sharing the theme of resilience. In Breaking the Begging Bowl, Phuleshwari’s life is a reflection of the harsh realities of rural poverty in Assam. The Blood of Devipeeth is Padmapriya’s story as she faces social isolation due to vitiligo. 

Delhi 5 November 1991 gives us a look at the Delhi hooch tragedy through Vimala’s eyes, while Ishwari’s Doubts and Desires explores widowhood in Vrindavan. Lastly, The Touchstone offers a glimpse into patriarchy from a man’s perspective. Goswami’s unflinching look at the lives of women, deeply rooted in Assam’s culture, gives these voices the space they deserve. Five Novellas About Women is a powerful contribution to the literature of India, showing both the struggles and strengths of women.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Paraja by Gopinath Mohanty opens a window into the lives of the Paraja tribal community in Odisha. The story centres on Sukru Jani and his family, who are under the crushing weight of exploitation when a corrupt moneylender forces them into bonded labour. Yes, it’s a tale of loss, but it’s also one of land, culture, and dignity.

Mohanty vividly captures tribal life, balancing the beauty of nature and traditional songs with the harsh realities of poverty. The novel quickly brings us into the epicentre of the struggle and how modernisation and greed strip away the dreams of those on the margins. Paraja is an important part of the literature of India for its simplicity and power, inviting you to witness the fragile balance between survival and hope. The story doesn’t offer easy answers but instead opens up an oft-overlooked world, questioning what progress really costs.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Just how much is the weight of societal expectations? In One Part Woman, set in rural Tamil Nadu, Perumal Murugan explores just that. Kali and Ponna are a couple deeply in love but struggling with the pressure to have a child. Their inability to conceive has turned into a source of public shame, with their community and families adding to the burden. As the pressure builds, the couple is drawn toward a drastic solution—Ponna’s participation in a chariot festival, where traditional boundaries are temporarily lifted to give her a chance for extramarital conception. 

Murugan’s writing cuts through the quiet rhythms of rural life, showing how tradition, caste, and religion tightly bind individuals. Through Ponna’s story, we observe the crushing weight of gender roles and the expectations around parenthood in a patriarchal society. This is a story both intimate and universal, asking us to consider the cost of living under societal pressure while leaving space for us to explore on our own. One Part Woman stirred up controversy for its bold portrayal of religious customs but is also a celebrated part of the literature of India for its fearless storytelling. 

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

This poem is often called the “Dalit Bible,” and it’s easy to see why. Jashuva’s work gave voice to those silenced by caste, and Gabbilam is a vital part of the literature of India, a cry for justice and change. Gurram Jashuva’s Gabbilam is known in Telugu literature for its raw take on caste oppression. The 1941 poem flips the traditional messenger idea from Kalidasa’s Meghaduta and instead of sending a message to a lover, Jashuva’s protagonist—an untouchable—sends a plea to God, using a bat (Gabbilam) as the messenger, an outcast that marks the pains of the Dalit community.

The use of the bat is not arbitrary. It’s a direct symbol of those pushed to the margins, like the untouchables. Through this simple image, Jashuva writes about caste, poverty, and exclusion, challenging the repressiveness of Brahminical thought in both literature and society. Gabbilam speaks directly to the realities of Dalit life, making it a very important juncture in the literature of India.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

The Dreams of a Mappila Girl by B.M. Zuhara ushers us into the life of a young Muslim girl growing up in Kerala in the 1950s. The memoir, translated by Fehmida Zakeer, tells the story of Zuhara’s childhood in an aristocratic Mappila family, where societal restrictions controlled every aspect of a woman’s life. It’s not just her story, though; it’s the story of countless Mappila women navigating a world of limitations. The rich descriptions of village life and the internal conflicts of women caught between tradition and desire make this work of literature of India both relatable and thought-provoking.

The memoir powerfully reflects on what it meant to be a woman in that era. Freedom is a distant dream, and the weight of cultural expectations is ever-present. As she revisits her past, Zuhara critiques the gender roles that governed her life, making The Dreams of a Mappila Girl a window into the broader challenges faced by women in post-colonial India. The Dreams of a Mappila Girl offers a glimpse into a time and place often overlooked, making it an essential piece of the literature of India.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Pebble Monkey by Manindra Gupta, translated into English by Arunava Sinha, starts with a simple, magical event—a pebble turns into a monkey in the Himalayan snowline. From there, the monkey crosses paths with humans and other creatures. Beneath the fantasy, this whimsical tale quietly critiques humanity’s exploitation of nature, asking larger questions about climate change and our relationship with the environment.

Pebble Monkey is a unique entry in the literature of India, using magical realism to touch on real-world issues. The monkey, in all its innocence, moves through a world shaped by human greed. It’s a clear symbol of what’s at stake. But it never feels heavy-handed, for it draws you in with its whimsy and leaves you thinking. In the end, it’s a quiet reminder that the natural world is more fragile than we think, and that’s what gives it its place in the literature of India.

Read this fascinating interview with the translator of this book here.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

The Fakir by Sunil Gangopadhyay, translated from Bengali, is the story of Lalan Fakir, a 19th-century mystic and poet who broke free from religious boundaries. After a near-death experience, where a Muslim woman saves him, Lalan begins questioning the strict caste and religious systems of his time. Through his songs, Lalan brought Hindus, Muslims, and the marginalised together.

Through this blend of history and humanism, The Fakir remains a significant work in the literature of India. With his message of compassion, unity, and equality, Lalan created a community to defy the strict social norms of the time, keeping human connection over religious divisions. It’s a novel that invites us to rethink the systems we live by and why it’s an important part of the literature of India.

After reading this book, you might also enjoy reading Blood by Sunil Gangopadhyay.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

The title itself—Joothan—refers to leftover food given to Dalits, symbolising the constant degradation they faced. Omprakash Valmiki’s novel, a critical part of the Dalit literature of India, depicts the harsh realities of growing up Dalit in post-independence India. He doesn’t hold back in showing how deeply caste discrimination affected every part of his life, especially his time in school. Valmiki recalls being forced to sweep classrooms at school, punished simply for seeking an education.

His mother’s refusal to let him be defined by caste and his father’s determination to push through the barriers show the quiet resistance that shaped his life. It’s a deeply personal story but also a direct critique of the larger caste system in India, one that still lingers. Joothan is one of the foundational texts in Dalit literature of India, urging you to stare at the persisting injustices and explore a world they might not even fully know.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

This book is essential in Dalit feminist literature and a key part of the literature of India. The Prisons We Broke by Baby Kamble opens a window into the harsh lives of Dalit women in pre-independence India. Focusing on the Mahar community, Kamble exposes how caste and gender worked together to crush these women, treating them as less than human.

Kamble’s account is personal, but it also critiques the superstitions and patriarchal rules that shaped Dalit life. Inspired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, she shows how education became a way to resist and push back against the “prisons” of caste and patriarchy. The narrative speaks to the larger fight for equality that’s so central to the literature of India. The Prisons We Broke reminds us that freedom doesn’t stop at breaking chains, but not stopping until you’ve broken the very systems that create them.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Karukku by Bama focuses on experiences rather than telling a straightforward life story, which is why it’s unique in the literature of India. Instead of just telling us what happened, she shows how caste discrimination seeps into every part of life, including religious spaces. It’s a reflection on the life of a Dalit Christian woman navigating the harsh realities of caste, gender, and religion. Written in Tamil and later translated into English, the title itself—Karukku—refers to the sharp edges of a palmyra leaf, symbolising the pain and struggle of Dalit existence.

Bama recounts her childhood in Tamil Nadu, the constant discrimination Dalits faced, and her time as a nun, where caste prejudice continued even in religious spaces. Karukku is a vital part of Dalit literature of India for its insights into individual and collective struggle. It challenges the status quo, forcing the reader to think about the systems we often take for granted.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

The thirtieth entry in our list of must-read books of literature of India is an anti-caste manifesto and perhaps the most important book of Dalit literature. Annihilation of Caste by Dr B.R. Ambedkar is one of the boldest and most influential critiques of the caste system ever written. Originally intended as a speech in 1936, it was never delivered because of its uncompromising content. But it was not like Ambedkar to back down. He self-published it. And that decision changed the course of Indian socio-political thought forever.

The book remains a cornerstone in the literature of India for its sheer scope. Ambedkar called for the complete dismantling of the caste system, which he saw as entrenched in Hinduism and responsible for generations of oppression. Ambedkar’s direct challenge to Mahatma Gandhi, who had a more conservative view on caste and Hinduism, adds more weight to Annihilation of Caste, shaping not just anti-caste literature but India’s ongoing discussions around social justice. It’s a key work in the literature of India, and its relevance has only grown.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

There’s Gunpowder in the Air by Manoranjan Byapari takes you straight into the gritty world of a high-security prison in the 1970s, at the height of the Naxalbari movement. Five Naxalite prisoners are planning an escape, but if you think it’s a story of prison breaks and rebellion, you’d be wrong. Byapari uses this tense setup to explore the harsh realities of prison life and the brutal treatment of political prisoners.

Byapari’s personal experience of being imprisoned gives the story an authenticity that’s hard to shake. The way he describes the isolation, the slow erosion of hope, and the clash between ideals and survival is raw. It’s a sharp critique of a system that dehumanises those who challenge it, especially through the lens of class struggle and oppression. The English translation by Arunava Sinha keeps the raw intensity of the original Bengali text, making it one of the most compelling reads in the literature of India.

Those who enjoy this book will likely also enjoy Manoranjan’s The Nemesis.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Bagul’s raw, unapologetic prose—now available in English, thanks to Jerry Pinto’s translation—gets right to the heart of caste injustice. His characters are fighters, standing up to a system built to keep them down. A cornerstone of Dalit literature of India, When I Hid My Caste by Baburao Bagul is a punch to the gut—no soft edges, no sugar-coating. This collection of ten short stories, first published in Marathi in 1963, throws you straight into the harsh realities of caste oppression.

In the title story, Masthur, a Dalit man, tries to escape prejudice by hiding his caste in the city. But when his secret gets out, things turn violent in no time. Bagul’s message is clear: no matter how hard you try to hide, caste runs too deep in Indian society to truly escape it. The hypocrisy of a system built on inequality doesn’t follow you; it hunts you down. When I Hid My Caste is a crucial part of the literature of India, and its relevance hasn’t faded one bit.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

If being a refugee wasn’t hard enough, what would it be like to be a Dalit refugee during the Partition of India? That’s what An Uprooted Life, a crucial part of Dalit literature of India, explores. Bala, part of the Namasudra community, pulls no punches in showing how, even in the chaos of displacement, caste discrimination didn’t take a break. While upper-caste refugees often found better support and rehabilitation, Dalit refugees like Bala were left to fight for survival in overcrowded camps.

The memoir’s importance in the literature of India stems from its focus on the often-ignored Dalit experience during Partition. Bala’s story doesn’t stop at being a refugee but has the added burden of caste. He shares the emotional scars left by displacement and what it meant to be both uprooted and marginalised. The daily fight for dignity and survival is a central theme, making An Uprooted Life a powerful critique of how society treats its most vulnerable.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

The Adivasi Will Not Dance by Hansda Sowvendra Shekhar grabs you from the start and doesn’t let go. Shekhar, a member of the Santhal community himself, gives an honest portrayal of what life is like for Adivasis in Jharkhand—grappling with systemic oppression, land dispossession, and deep economic marginalisation. A vital part of the literature of India, it doesn’t shy away from tough themes.

In the title story, for instance, the character of Mangal Murmu refuses to perform at a corporate event celebrating a development project on stolen Adivasi land. Controversial? Absolutely. The book was even banned in Jharkhand because of its blunt portrayal of Adivasi women’s struggles. But The Adivasi Will Not Dance stands tall in the Adivasi literature of India and forces you to confront the uncomfortable truths about how Adivasis are treated and how their voices are too often ignored.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

The Branded by Laxman Gaikwad is a hard-hitting look at what it means to grow up within a denotified tribe branded as “criminal” by the British—a stigma that stuck long after India’s independence. This autobiographical novel, a must-read in the literature of India, gives us a front-row seat to the daily struggle of the Uchalya tribe, where survival often meant crime was the only option. 

Constant police harassment, poverty, and a lack of opportunities trapped them in a vicious cycle. He critiques not just the label of “criminal” but also the deeper caste-based prejudices that kept the Uchalyas oppressed. It’s a painful reflection on how society dehumanised this group and pushed them into cycles of crime and survival. Awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award, Uchalya is a milestone in Dalit and marginalised literature of India.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Poisoned Bread is a groundbreaking anthology in the literature of India that shakes things up, bringing over 80 Dalit voices from Maharashtra to the forefront, a community long silenced by caste-based oppression. Edited by Arjun Dangle and published in 1992, this collection breaks the silence on caste-based oppression with raw, unapologetic stories, essays, poems, and autobiographies. These are lived experiences that show what life as a Dalit in Maharashtra really looked like. 

Poisoned Bread’s importance to the literature of India can be seen in how it captures the revolutionary energy of Ambedkar’s movement while also showing the personal cost of systemic oppression. The English translations keep the raw power of the original Marathi intact, pushing the boundaries and making sure the voices of the marginalised are heard far and wide.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

A Girl Swallowed by a Tree by Nzanmongi Jasmine Patton is a journey through the folk tales of the Lotha Naga community from Nagaland. These stories are a window into the beliefs, values, and ecological knowledge of the Lotha people and a distinct part of the literature of India. From the origins of the world to how nature works, Patton’s retellings preserve important Lotha words and keep the tradition of oral storytelling alive.

The book is an essential part of the literature of India for challenging stereotypes about the Naga community. Patton highlights the importance of indigenous knowledge while also forcing you to rethink how you view these stories. From that perspective, A Girl Swallowed by a Tree tries to preserve a way of thinking and living that’s deeply rooted in nature and community.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

A heartfelt coming-of-age story, Becoming Me by Rejina Marandi, follows Liya, a young Santal girl growing up in riot-torn Assam. Through Liya’s journey, Marandi goes beyond the regular coming-of-age story to bring the struggles of the Adivasi community front and centre, tackling issues like discrimination and violence and the strength it takes to survive. Liya’s life is a window into a world many don’t often see, where resilience is critical and hope is hard-fought.

Becoming Me is distinct in the literature of India for how it gives voice to the dreams and hopes of a generation fighting against socio-political injustice. This debut novel is an important addition to the Adivasi literature of India, with a fresh, authentic insight into a world many might never have explored. Like the best of books, it’s a great conversation starter.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Lihaaf (The Quilt) by Ismat Chughtai, written in 1942, with its bold narrative and provocative themes, shook the Urdu literature of India. It follows Begum Jaan, a neglected wife who finds comfort in her masseuse, Rabbu. Told through the eyes of a young girl, the story leaves much unsaid but subtly hints at Begum Jaan’s repressed desires, with themes of female autonomy and homosexuality—things most people weren’t ready to talk about back then.

Chughtai’s fearless portrayal of these taboo subjects led to an obscenity trial, a case she famously won. Lihaaf has since become a landmark in both feminist and LGBTQ+ literature of India, pushing boundaries and opening up conversations that matter.

Admirers of Chughtai’s works would certainly love reading this book.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

The Truth About Me by A. Revathi is a deeply personal journey that’s hard to forget. It’s a firsthand look at what it means to live as a hijra (transgender woman) in India. It is a standout in the literature of India for Revathi’s unfiltered honesty, who shares every detail, from the emotional pain to the physical struggles, providing an inside look at what it actually means to be part of the hijra community.

This book is a call for understanding the struggles and courage of hijras in the face of harsh societal judgment. A bold addition to the queer literature of India and a must-read for anyone who wants to grasp the realities of transgender lives, Revathi’s story also touches on the intersections of gender, caste, and class, challenging us to rethink the way we see transgender lives.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Love, identity, and societal norms collide in this fever dream of a novel, now also a Netflix film. It’s the story of Tanay and Anuja, two siblings who unknowingly fall in love with the same man—a paying guest in their home. The story unfolds almost poetically: Tanay’s introspective, almost poetic soliloquy contrasts with Anuja’s raw, first-person narrative. Cobalt Blue stands out in the literature of India for how effortlessly it handles LGBTQ+ themes.

The emotional turmoil Tanay and Anuja experience after the guest’s sudden disappearance ties into their need to find themselves in a world that doesn’t always understand. Cobalt Blue is a must-read in the literature of India, especially for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ narratives that go beyond the usual.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Mohanaswamy by Vasudhendra is a refreshing collection of stories about Mohanaswamy, a gay man trying to live his truth in conservative South Indian society. Through these semi-autobiographical tales, you get a deeply personal look at his struggles, from dealing with rejection and heartbreak to the internal battle of accepting his own identity. Mohanaswamy is a standout in the literature of India for how it breaks through the typical stereotypes of gay characters.

This book is a powerful voice in regional Indian literature and a must-read in the LGBTQ+ literature of India. Vasudhendra goes right into the loneliness, the desire, and the systemic violence that LGBTQ+ individuals face. These stories show Mohanaswamy’s journey from childhood to adulthood and the social challenges that come with coming out in a patriarchal society. At its core, it’s a story about the difficulties of living authentically in a world that isn’t always accepting.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

One of the first Indian novels about the complexities of gay life in India, The Boyfriend by R. Raj Rao follows Yudi, a middle-aged gay journalist, and his shaky relationship with Milind, a young Dalit man. Their relationship is messy and transactional, reflecting their emotional and class divides. Set in the gritty, fast-paced world of 1990s Mumbai, The Boyfriend is an important piece of the literature of India for its sharp critique of a country still coming to terms with its queer and caste realities.

Rao uses their relationship to comment on bigger issues like caste, sexuality, and the socio-political landscape of post-colonial India. The book questions power dynamics, both personal and societal, giving you an unflinching look at urban queer life. As one of the first Indian novels to openly discuss gay life, The Boyfriend was a milestone for the LGBTQ+ literature of India. It’s a must-read to understand how caste, sexuality, and identity intersect in modern India.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

From lovers to abusers to mentors, Laxmi, a fierce transgender activist, doesn’t hold back as she tells it like it is. Red Lipstick by Laxmi Narayan Tripathi is a no-holds-barred memoir about her complex relationships with the men who’ve shaped her journey. The book is unique in the literature of India for its unique take on masculinity from Laxmi’s perspective as a hijra, someone who’s lived on the margins of gender norms.

The men in her life are tied to larger themes, even linked to Hindu mythological figures. The book is a statement on gender, identity, and patriarchy, which is why Red Lipstick is a must-read in the literature of India to understand the complex patriarchal dynamics of our society. Balancing emotional highs and painful lows while challenging societal conventions, Red Lipstick by Laxmi Narayan Tripathi is unapologetic in the best way possible.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Mother of 1084 by Mahasweta Devi straightaway hits you with the emotional weight of a mother’s grief against the backdrop of the Naxalite movement in West Bengal. The gut-wrenching story follows Sujata, a mother who finds out her son Brati, a Naxalite rebel, has been killed, reduced to just a number in the morgue—1084. Sujata’s journey to understand who Brati was and why he gave his life to the movement becomes the heart of the novel.

Along the way, she confronts the realities of a society that has turned its back on the very youth fighting for change. Mother of 1084 is a critical piece in the literature of India for capturing both the personal grief of a mother and the broader political issues at play. Through Sujata’s eyes, the novel sharply comments on the apathy of the middle class and the bitter consequences of political disillusionment, something that remains as relevant in the literature of India today as it was then.

If you loved Hajar Chaurashir Maa, you’ll likely also enjoy Bedanabala, Breast Stories and this interview with Mahasweta Devi herself.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

K.R. Meera’s Hangwoman follows Chetna Grddha Mullick, the first female executioner in a family of hangmen, a legacy stretching back thousands of years. Living in Kolkata, Chetna finds herself in a moral and emotional storm when tasked with carrying out capital punishment while facing the heavy judgment of a society unsure of what to make of a woman in her position. Celebrated by some while shunned by others, Chetna has to balance the intense weight of both her family legacy and societal expectations.

Hangwoman is distinct in the literature of India for its completely new perspective on concepts of power, gender, and justice. This battle with Chetna’s gruesome duty is part of the broader fight women face in male-dominated spaces. Hangwoman forces you to confront the very idea of justice and the price that comes with it. It’s a must-read in the literature of India for shaking up traditional ideas of power, justice, and gender roles.

If you enjoyed Hangwoman, you’ll probably also enjoy her Assassin and Qabar.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

For anyone fascinated by indigenous cultures, ecological storytelling, and the complex layers of identity, Legends of Pensam is a must-read in the literature of India. “Pensam,” which means “in-between,” is where these stories live—hovering between myth and reality, tradition and modernity. Through interconnected tales across generations, Dai captures the essence of life in this remote region, combining oral traditions with myths and everyday experiences. Hence, the narrative feels both timeless and current, imbibing the cultural and ecological consciousness of the region.

Legends of Pensam by Mamang Dai moves you into the heart of Arunachal Pradesh through interconnected stories within the Adi tribe. With a strong sense of place, the connection between the Adi people and nature is palpable in every story. Dai explores identity, tradition, and belonging while capturing the struggles of preserving cultural heritage amidst the changes brought by modernity and colonialism. Legends of Pensam is a must-read work in the literature of India, offering a sensibility hard to find anywhere else.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Mai by Geetanjali Shree is a quiet, powerful look into the life of a North Indian family. In it, Mai—the mother—holds everything together while barely being seen for who she is. Mai is an important part of the literature of India for digging into patriarchal expectations without shouting about them. Mai’s “weak spine” is a metaphor for the societal pressures weighing her down, but while she appears passive, there’s a power in how she holds her family together.

The novel challenges you to rethink ideas of strength and weakness, showing that sometimes, influence comes from the most unassuming places. To explore the nuances of family, gender, and societal expectations, Mai is a must-read in the literature of India. The rich, layered story captures the tension between strength and submission in ways that feel both familiar and fresh.

After reading Mai, you must also read Geetanjali Shree’s Booker-winning Ret Samadhi (Tomb of Sand).

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Kanyasulkam by Gurajada Apparao brings a sharp wit and biting humour to a serious issue: child marriage and the practice of kanya-sulkam, or bride price, in 19th-century India. Written in 1892, this Telugu play, an important part of the literature of India, centres around Gireesam, a slick-talking man who charms his way through life, and Madhuravani, a prostitute surprisingly portrayed with dignity and wisdom. Together, their stories expose the hypocrisy, greed, and gender inequalities embedded in society.

The book stands out in the literature of India for just how progressive it is for its time. Gurajada gives a voice to women like Madhuravani and isn’t afraid to target the patriarchal norms in the process. Through its clever dialogue and sharp social commentary, the play questions the exploitation of women, the caste system, and the so-called respectability of traditional society. More than a century later, Kanyasulkam is still a powerful piece in the literature of India, with its themes of justice, equality, and the role of women remaining as relevant as ever.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

My Story by Kamala Das is a raw, confessional account that shook readers when it first came out and remains an important part of the memoir literature of India. She writes about getting married at 15, facing the complexities of love and sexuality, and challenging the rigid societal structures that tried to define her. Das talks openly about things many wouldn’t dare to—marital rape, extramarital affairs, and her search for emotional fulfilment. It’s the kind of raw honesty that few had seen before in the literature of India.

To a large extent, Kamala Das redefined what women, specifically Indian women, could say out loud. She took on taboo topics headfirst, and while she admitted later that parts of the book were fictionalised, it only added to the book’s complexity. Even so, her voice is raw and unforgettable. Looking for something that challenges norms and breaks down barriers? My Story is the book for you.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Born into poverty, Baby Halder was married off at twelve and a mother by fourteen. Thus, A Life Less Ordinary by Baby Halder is not just a memoir but a story of grit, survival, and transformation. She endured years of abuse before finally fleeing with her kids to Delhi, where she worked as a maid. Her life took a strange turn when her employer, Prabodh Kumar, handed her some books and encouraged her to write her own story. The result was this honest memoir that depicts the struggles of domestic workers and marginalised women, why it’s a one-of-a-kind piece in the literature of India.

Baby Halder tells it like it is—there’s no sugar-coating the violence, the child marriage, or the constant struggle for dignity. But you also see her determination beneath everything. It’s a story about survival, yes, but it’s also a story of finding your voice when the world tries to keep you silent. Aalo Andhari is a reminder of the strength it takes to rise from the toughest circumstances and reclaim your own story.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

The Vigil by Sarah Joseph is a completely fresh take on the Ramayana, told through the eyes of Angadan, the son of Vali. If you’re used to seeing Rama as the hero, this novel will likely shake some things up. Angadan views him as unjust, especially in how he handled his father’s death and how Sita was put through the fire ordeal. Joseph challenges everything you think you know about dharma and justice with layers of political and ecological critiques that retain their relevance in the literature of India.

Sarah’s dexterity in incorporating modern concerns into an ancient tale is impeccable. From environmental degradation to women’s empowerment, she adds a contemporary twist to this age-old epic. The novel contrasts the egalitarian values of the Vanara clan with the rigid hierarchies of the human world, reflecting today’s societal issues. The Vigil is a must-read in the literature of India to rethink the Ramayana and challenge oft-accepted norms.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Writing Caste/Writing Gender is a powerful collection that gives the mic to Dalit women, whose voices often get overshadowed in both feminist and Dalit movements. Featuring testimonies from writers like Urmila Pawar, Shantabai Kamble, and Kumud Pawade, the anthology tries to understand into the intersectional challenges that define Dalit feminism. The book is distinct in the literature of India for boldly challenging the dominant narratives.

These testimonials push back against the dominant Brahmanical discourse to create a space for Dalit feminist voices. Writing Caste/Writing Gender is essential reading for anyone studying caste, gender, feminist movements, or the literature of India. It forces you to see caste and gender in a new light and is a wake-up call to the layered oppression that continues to affect Dalit women in India today.

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon

Blurb:

Get the Book from Amazon