India has a rich literary tradition that has produced some of the finest authors the world has ever seen. With the turn of the 21st century, Indian authors have continued to captivate readers with their diverse and compelling stories. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best books of the 21st century written by Indian authors that have left a lasting impact on readers worldwide.
#10 "The Lowland" by Jhumpa Lahiri
“The Lowland” tells the story of two brothers, Subhash and Udayan, whose lives take divergent paths in the aftermath of a political uprising in Calcutta. Jhumpa Lahiri’s lyrical prose and intimate exploration of family ties make this a compelling read.
Buy The Lowland Book Online at Low Prices in India | The Lowland Reviews & Ratings – Amazon.in
#9 "Serious Men" by Manu Joseph
“Serious Men” is a satirical novel that follows the antics of Ayyan Mani, a lowly assistant to a brilliant scientist who hatches a scheme to propel his young son to fame. Manu Joseph’s sharp wit and incisive commentary on Indian society make this a must-read
https://www.amazon.in/Serious-Men-Manu-Joseph/dp/8172238525.
#8 "The Palace of Illusions" by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
“The Palace of Illusions” retells the epic Mahabharata from the perspective of Draupadi, the wife of the five Pandava brothers. Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s novel offers a fresh and feminist take on this ancient Indian epic.
#7 "The Inheritance of Loss" by Kiran Desai
Winner of the Man Booker Prize in 2006, “The Inheritance of Loss” is a multi-layered novel that weaves together the stories of a retired judge, his granddaughter, and their companions in a remote Himalayan village.
#6 "Em and the Big Hoom" by Jerry Pinto
“Em and the Big Hoom” is a moving novel that delves into the complexities of mental illness and its impact on a family. Jerry Pinto’s sensitive portrayal of the protagonist’s mother, Em, has earned the book critical acclaim.
#5 "The Namesake" by Jhumpa Lahiri
Another gem from Jhumpa Lahiri, “The Namesake” tells the story of Gogol Ganguli, a young man struggling to navigate his dual identity as an Indian-American. The novel is a poignant exploration of family, identity, and belonging.
#4 "A Suitable Boy" by Vikram Seth
At over 1,300 pages, “A Suitable Boy” is a sprawling epic that follows the lives of four families in post-independence India. Vikram Seth’s magnum opus is a masterpiece of storytelling and social commentary.
#3 "The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy
Arundhati Roy’s debut novel, “The God of Small Things,” won the Man Booker Prize in 1997. Set in Kerala, India, the novel explores the lives of twins Rahel and Estha and the tragic events that shape their lives.
#2 "The White Tiger" by Aravind Adiga
Published in 2008, “The White Tiger” is a darkly humorous novel that sheds light on the social and economic disparities in India. The book follows the rags-to-riches journey of a man from a small village to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the bustling city of Delhi.
The White Tiger: Booker Prize Winner 2008 : Adiga, Aravind: Amazon.in: Books
#1 "Interpreter of Maladies" by Jhumpa Lahiri
Jhumpa Lahiri’s debut collection of short stories, “Interpreter of Maladies” won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2000. The stories beautifully capture the immigrant experience and the complexities of human relationships.
In conclusion, the 21st century has seen a flourishing of Indian literature, with authors pushing boundaries and exploring new horizons in storytelling. The books mentioned above represent a diverse range of genres and themes, showcasing the talent and creativity of Indian authors. Whether you’re a fan of literary fiction, historical epics, or contemporary social commentary, there’s a book on this list that is sure to captivate and inspire you.
