Top 10 Indian Authors You Should Read in 2025
India’s literary landscape is as diverse and rich as its culture. From timeless classics to bold contemporary voices, Indian authors have captured emotions, politics, identity, and imagination across genres. Whether you’re rediscovering fiction or diving into thought-provoking non-fiction, the following list features the top 10 Indian authors you should read in 2025—each with a unique narrative style and powerful voice.
1. Arundhati Roy
Known For: The God of Small Things, The Ministry of Utmost Happiness
A Booker Prize-winning author and political activist, Roy’s prose combines lyrical beauty with social commentary. Her writing unpacks caste, inequality, and human resilience.
Read From: Penguin India – Arundhati Roy
Why Read: Visceral, poetic, and politically charged narratives
2. Chetan Bhagat
Known For: Five Point Someone, The Girl in Room 105, 400 Days
Often criticized yet wildly popular, Bhagat’s books are accessible to youth and first-time readers. He blends relatable characters with social issues like education, corruption, and family.
Official Site: chetanbhagat.com
Why Read: Simple language and mass appeal
3. Jhumpa Lahiri
Known For: The Namesake, Interpreter of Maladies
Lahiri, though US-based, explores Indian identity, diaspora, and belonging with literary elegance. Her stories speak to anyone who’s ever straddled two cultures.
Bookstore Link: Amazon India – Jhumpa Lahiri
Literary Awards: Pulitzer Prize for Fiction
4. Amitav Ghosh
Known For: The Ibis Trilogy, The Great Derangement
Ghosh blends historical fiction with global themes like colonialism, trade, and climate change. His storytelling is immersive, making history feel alive.
Visit: AmitavGhosh.com
Recommended Start: Sea of Poppies (Ibis Trilogy Book 1)
5. Anuja Chauhan
Known For: Those Pricey Thakur Girls, The Zoya Factor
Known for her witty, romantic, and filmy style, Chauhan offers fun yet layered storytelling that appeals to a wide range of urban Indian readers.
Where to Buy: HarperCollins India
Bonus: Several of her books are adapted into films and series
6. Manoj Muntashir
Known For: Meri Fitrat Hai Mastana, Tumhari Aukaat Kya Hai
A lyricist-turned-author, Muntashir brings deep emotion and philosophy in Hindi literature. His work resonates with Indian values, romance, and poetry lovers.
Explore His Work: Westland Books
Best For: Fans of Hindi and Urdu literature
7. Meena Kandasamy
Known For: When I Hit You, Exquisite Cadavers
Bold and unapologetic, Kandasamy writes about feminism, caste politics, and trauma with poetic intensity. Her style is experimental and impactful.
Read More: MeenaKandasamy.com
Why Read: For politically conscious and boundary-pushing fiction
8. Durjoy Datta
Known For: The Boy Who Loved, Wish I Could Tell You
A favorite among millennials, Datta writes romantic fiction with a modern twist. His books often deal with heartbreak, hope, and self-discovery.
Available On: Amazon – Durjoy Datta
Great For: Light, emotional, and easy weekend reads
9. Perumal Murugan
Known For: Poonachi, One Part Woman
Murugan writes in Tamil and is celebrated for his sensitive portrayal of rural India, caste, and identity. His translated works are powerful, quiet, and deeply moving.
Publisher: Penguin India – Perumal Murugan
Why Read: Authentic rural realism and cultural depth
10. Rujuta Diwekar
Known For: Don’t Lose Your Mind, Lose Your Weight, Indian Superfoods
India’s leading nutritionist-turned-author, Diwekar simplifies health, food myths, and Indian diets. Her books are must-reads for wellness-focused families.
Website: RujutaDiwekar.com
Perfect For: Those interested in fitness and sustainable health
Bonus Recommendations
- Twinkle Khanna – Light, humorous non-fiction with emotional depth
- Devdutt Pattanaik – Mythology made easy and relevant
- Savi Sharma – Inspirational fiction for youth
Conclusion
Whether you enjoy deep literary fiction, light romantic reads, or sharp social critique, Indian authors offer something for every kind of reader. These top 10 names represent a dynamic spectrum of India’s storytelling power. If you’re looking to build a reading habit or expand your bookshelf, these voices are an excellent place to start.
For more curated reading lists, author interviews, and cultural recommendations, explore Untold You—your destination for everything thoughtful and Indian.
