15 Best-Selling Indian Novels You Should Read

1. The Unproposed Guy by Bhavik Sarkhedi A humorous and thought-provoking exploration of modern relationships and societal expectations, this novel stands out for its witty narrative and engaging characters.
2. Assassin by K.R. Meera A powerful story about Satyapriya, a woman on a quest for justice and identity in contemporary India, “Assassin” is a literary sensation that delves into complex social issues with a gripping narrative.
3. Victory City by Salman Rushdie This novel is a fantastical tale set in ancient India, revolving around a young girl who creates a magnificent city. Rushdie’s storytelling combines mythology, magic, and history to create an enchanting narrative.
4. The Bandit Queens by Parini Shroff A darkly humorous tale about a woman rumored to have killed her husband, this debut novel explores themes of female empowerment and friendship with wit and irreverence.
5. Homeless: Growing Up Lesbian and Dyslexic in India by K. Vaishali Vaishali’s autobiography is a bold and honest exploration of her struggles with identity, learning disabilities, and societal prejudice, making it a deeply moving and inspiring read.
6. History’s Angel by Anjum Hasan This novel offers a poignant and darkly humorous look at the lives of Muslims in contemporary India, exploring themes of memory, identity, and societal change.
7. Meru: The Alloy Era by S.B. Divya A thrilling space opera, this novel combines science fiction with themes of aspiration, compassion, and redemption, following a woman’s journey that could alter the fate of an entire species.
8. I Hear You by Nidhi Upadhyay A psychological thriller about a woman carrying a genetically altered fetus with superpowers, this novel is a suspenseful and unpredictable ride that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
9. R.A.W. Hitman by Hussain S. Zaidi Based on true events, this novel delves into the world of espionage and undercover operations, focusing on a mysterious R.A.W. agent and his encounters with notorious gangsters.
10. Aryaa by Shivakumar GV A collection of short stories about strong-willed women from the Vedic age, this book provides a deeper understanding of their lives, wisdom, and unconventional choices, bridging myth and history.
11. Quarterlife by Devika Rege A character-driven narrative that explores the personal and political landscapes of new India through the lives of three protagonists, offering a nuanced and compelling read.
12. Fire Bird by Perumal Murugan Winner of the JCB Prize for Literature 2023, this novel tells the story of Muthu, who seeks a new life after being disinherited, capturing the socio-political dynamics of rural India in the 1960s.
13. City on Fire: A Boyhood in Aligarh by Zeyad Masroor Khan A raw and honest memoir about growing up amidst religious violence in India, this book provides a visceral portrayal of societal divisions and the hope for unity.
14. Sahela Re: A Novel by Mrinal Pande This novel is an ode to Hindustani classical music, following a music teacher’s journey through the traditions and performances that keep this art form alive.
15. Nala Damayanti by Anand Neelakantan Based on a mythological love story from the Mahabharata, this novel weaves a captivating tale of love and resilience against the backdrop of divine interventions and hostile challenges.

AQs for each book/author, with answers:

1. The Unproposed Guy by Bhavik Sarkhedi
   • Question: What is the central theme of “The Unproposed Guy”?
   • Answer: The central theme of “The Unproposed Guy” revolves around the complexities of modern relationships and societal expectations. The novel humorously examines the struggles and dilemmas faced by individuals in their personal and romantic lives. It provides a witty take on the pressures to conform to societal norms. Bhavik Sarkhedi’s engaging narrative style makes it a compelling read.
2. Assassin by K.R. Meera
   • Question: How does “Assassin” by K.R. Meera address contemporary issues?
   • Answer: “Assassin” addresses contemporary issues such as gender inequality, social justice, and personal identity. The protagonist, Satyapriya, embarks on a journey to confront and overcome societal challenges, highlighting the struggles faced by women in India. K.R. Meera’s storytelling is both powerful and evocative, making the reader deeply empathize with the characters’ plights. The novel also delves into the complexities of the human psyche and social structures.
3. Victory City by Salman Rushdie
   • Question: What makes “Victory City” by Salman Rushdie unique?
   • Answer: “Victory City” is unique due to its blending of fantasy, mythology, and historical elements. The novel tells the story of a young girl who creates a city with her magical abilities, exploring themes of power, ambition, and destiny. Salman Rushdie’s rich and imaginative prose brings the ancient world to life, making it a captivating read. The book also reflects Rushdie’s signature style of magical realism.
4. The Bandit Queens by Parini Shroff
   • Question: What is the premise of “The Bandit Queens” by Parini Shroff?
   • Answer: “The Bandit Queens” follows the story of a woman who gains notoriety from rumors of killing her husband and uses this reputation to empower herself and others. It is a darkly humorous exploration of female friendship and empowerment. The novel cleverly addresses issues of gender and societal expectations with wit and irreverence. Parini Shroff’s debut work has been praised for its fresh and engaging storytelling.
5. Homeless: Growing Up Lesbian and Dyslexic in India by K. Vaishali
   • Question: What personal challenges does K. Vaishali explore in her autobiography?
   • Answer: In her autobiography, K. Vaishali explores the dual challenges of growing up as a lesbian and living with dyslexia in India. She candidly shares her journey of self-discovery and acceptance, offering a powerful narrative on overcoming societal prejudices. The book sheds light on the often unspoken struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and those with learning disabilities. Vaishali’s courage and honesty make it a compelling and inspiring read.
6. History’s Angel by Anjum Hasan
   • Question: How does “History’s Angel” by Anjum Hasan explore the theme of memory?
   • Answer: “History’s Angel” delves into the theme of memory by examining the lives of Muslims in contemporary India and their relationship with their past. The novel uses dark humor to address the complexities of identity and societal change. Anjum Hasan’s narrative highlights the importance of remembering one’s history in a world that often seeks to forget it. The book is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.
7. Meru: The Alloy Era by S.B. Divya
   • Question: What themes are explored in “Meru: The Alloy Era” by S.B. Divya?
   • Answer: “Meru: The Alloy Era” explores themes of aspiration, compassion, and atonement within a thrilling space opera setting. The novel follows the journey of a woman and her pilot as they navigate challenges that could alter the fate of an entire species. S.B. Divya’s storytelling is rich with scientific and ethical considerations, making it a thought-provoking read. The book combines elements of adventure with deep philosophical questions.
8. I Hear You by Nidhi Upadhyay
   • Question: What is the plot of “I Hear You” by Nidhi Upadhyay?
   • Answer: “I Hear You” is a psychological thriller about a woman named Mihika who is pregnant with the world’s first genetically altered fetus. As the fetus begins to exhibit superpowers, Mihika faces unexpected challenges that threaten her sanity and safety. Nidhi Upadhyay crafts a gripping and suspenseful narrative that keeps readers on edge. The novel explores themes of scientific ethics and personal resilience.
9. R.A.W. Hitman by Hussain S. Zaidi
   • Question: What real-life events inspired “R.A.W. Hitman” by Hussain S. Zaidi?
   • Answer: “R.A.W. Hitman” is inspired by true events involving covert operations and the lives of intelligence agents. The novel focuses on R.A.W. Agent Lima and his involvement in the deaths of notorious gangsters. Hussain S. Zaidi’s narrative sheds light on the often unseen and dangerous world of espionage. The book is noted for its detailed and realistic portrayal of undercover operations.
10. Aryaa by Shivakumar GV
    • Question: What is the focus of the short stories in “Aryaa” by Shivakumar GV?
    • Answer: The short stories in “Aryaa” focus on the lives of strong-willed women from the Vedic age. Each story provides a closer look at their bravery, wisdom, and unconventional choices. Shivakumar GV demystifies the myths surrounding these historical figures, presenting them as relatable and inspirational. The book is a celebration of female empowerment and resilience throughout history.
11. Quarterlife by Devika Rege
    • Question: What are the main themes in “Quarterlife” by Devika Rege?
    • Answer: “Quarterlife” explores themes of personal growth, political engagement, and societal change in new India. The novel follows three main protagonists whose lives intersect in profound ways. Devika Rege’s character-driven narrative provides a nuanced look at contemporary issues through the personal experiences of her characters. The book has been praised for its insightful and powerful storytelling.
12. Fire Bird by Perumal Murugan
    • Question: What period and setting does “Fire Bird” by Perumal Murugan depict?
    • Answer: “Fire Bird” is set in the 1960s rural India and depicts the socio-political dynamics of the time. The novel follows Muthu, who embarks on a journey to find a new home after being disinherited by his father. Perumal Murugan’s narrative beautifully captures the struggles of rural life and the quest for stability. The book won the JCB Prize for Literature in 2023.
13. City on Fire: A Boyhood in Aligarh by Zeyad Masroor Khan
    • Question: What does “City on Fire: A Boyhood in Aligarh” by Zeyad Masroor Khan explore?
    • Answer: “City on Fire” is a coming-of-age memoir that explores the impact of religious violence and societal divisions on a young boy’s life. Khan writes with raw honesty about his experiences growing up in Aligarh and his journey towards becoming a journalist. The memoir provides a visceral portrayal of the challenges faced by minority communities in India. It is both a personal and a socio-political narrative.
14. Sahela Re: A Novel by Mrinal Pande
    • Question: What cultural aspect does “Sahela Re” by Mrinal Pande highlight?
    • Answer: “Sahela Re” highlights the rich tradition of Hindustani classical music through the journey of a music teacher. The novel explores the cultural heritage and the significance of mehfils and ghazals. Mrinal Pande’s narrative connects readers with the glorious aspects of Indian musical traditions. The book is a tribute to the art form and those who keep it alive.
15. Nala Damayanti by Anand Neelakantan
    • Question: What mythological story is “Nala Damayanti” by Anand Neelakantan based on?
    • Answer: “Nala Damayanti” is based on the mythological love story from the Mahabharata. It tells the tale of Nala, a tribal king, and Damayanti, a woman of extraordinary beauty, and their trials and tribulations. Anand Neelakantan’s retelling captures the essence of the epic love story while adding his unique narrative touch. The novel explores themes of love, destiny, and divine intervention.