On National Reading Day, we bring you a list of books by Indian authors that will intrigue you and feed your inner bookworm. Read away!
In this ever-busy world, it's always a good idea to slow down once in a while and give into small, simple pleasures like spending time with your pet, watching your comfort movie again, or reading a book! Reading sounds boring to some, but there's nothing more beautiful than sitting by the window and reading while sipping your coffee. Reading not only helps you dream, but it also helps you learn and grow. National Reading Day is celebrated annually in India to mark the death anniversary of PN Panicker, the man who led the 'Library Movement' in Kerala. On this day, we mark and honour his contribution to Kerala's 100% literacy rate.
We have curated a list of books written by Indian authors for you to read on this National Reading Day!
Check it out!
Ghachar Ghochar
'Ghachar Ghochar' is a psychological novella by Kannada author Vivek Shanbhag. You can find its translation in English by Srinath Perur. The book revolves around the life of an unnamed narrator's family who goes from rags to riches quickly and suspiciously. A dysfunctional family, changing behaviors and relationships, money, and moral values; this book is a perfect read if you're looking for something short yet absorbing.
Mother Pious Lady: Making Sense of Everyday India
'Mother Pious Lady' by Santhosh Desai is a collection of delightful yet analytical essays about what it means to be a middle-class Indian. His funny takes and apt descriptions will feel relatable to anyone who grew up in a middle-class household in India in the 1990s and 2000s. If you're looking for a breath of fresh air, put this book on your 'To Be Read' list.
Guru Dutt: An Unfinished Story
Cinema buffs, this one is for you! Written by journalist-turned-biographer, Yasser Usman, the book is a biography of the great actor and filmmaker Guru Dutt, who gave us gems like Pyaasa, Kaagaz Ke Phool, and Sahib Biwi Aur Ghulam, among many others. This book will definitely interest you if you are a die-hard fan of this magical filmmaker.
Khamosh! Adalat Jaari Hai
A translation of the Marathi play, 'Shantata! Court Chalu Aahe' (Quiet! The Court is in Order, this book was written by the playwright, Vijay Tendulkar. A rehearsal of a play by a group of teachers soon turns into a deep discussion and argument about numerous grave personal, political and social issues. This is one eye-opening book that makes you question social norms deeply.
Saaye Mein Dhoop
'Saaye Mein Dhoop' is a collection of ghazals written by the legendary poet Dushyant Kumar. These ghazals carry multiple themes, but each one hits home. Remember the song 'Tu Kisi Rail Si' from the movie 'Masaan'? You will find the original ghazal in this book.
Annihilation of Caste
'Annihilation of Caste', written by Dr. B R Ambedkar, is a revolutionary book that remains inspirational to date. It contains Babasaheb's undelivered speech that sharply criticizes the Hindu caste system. This book is one of his most influential works.
The Shiva Trilogy
If mythology intrigues you, put this book on your shelf. The trilogy includes three books, namely 'The Immortals of Meluha', 'The Secret of the Nagas', and 'The Oath of the Vayuputras'. This book is a deep dive into the world of Indian mythology based on the thought that gods were once humans and their actions are what made them gods.
Dongri to Dubai: Six Decades of the Mumbai Mafia
Written by former investigative journalist, Hussain Zaidi, chronicles the history of the Mumbai Mafia. It specifically traces the life journey of the global terrorist and drug kingpin, Dawood Ibrahim. This book is no less than a crime thriller; it keeps you on your toes at all times, immersing you in the tales of the Mumbai Mafia era.
The God of Small Things
The novel that marked author Arundhati Roy's debut in the literary world, this book is a must-read. Set in Kerala itself, the book explores many complex themes such as forbidden love, casteism, and misogyny, among other things. This book also offers an intense commentary on Indian history and politics.
Malgudi Days
This heartwarming book by R. K. Narayan is a collection of stories of people in the fictional city of Malgudi. These stories, although different, come together to describe what India is in essence.
Happy reading!