There is often a lament that regional literature is dying. Far from it, it is evolving and adapting to contemporary sensibilities. No doubt it is facing challenges. Be it the limited market, lack of promotion, awareness, and recognition, or overall apathy. Yet it continues to thrive playing a crucial role in preserving and celebrating India’s cultural diversity.
October is all Spooktober to commemorate Halloween. Book lovers celebrate by reading spooky stories ranging from classic to contemporary horror. Spine-chilling supernatural thrillers to ghost stories. Sticking to the theme, I share two books about ghosts. About two women who haven’t moved on due to attachments with material possessions and family, or unfinished business. Two women who could not be more different from each other. One who is determined to make her presence felt. Another who just observes, reminisces, and contemplates.
Why did Kaikeyi, who adored Ram, suddenly demand a fourteen year exile for him? Why did Ram decide to abandon Sita? Author Ashutosh Rana needs no introduction. With Ramrajya, he attempts to answer these questions and more in a unique retelling of the great epic.
I share a list of my favorite short story collections by Indian authors. A list of books beyond the usual suspects. Poignant tales. Thought-provoking narratives. Some quintessentially Indian that encapsulate our rich and diverse culture. Original and translated works. Literary gems. Contemporary fiction. Complex and vivid characters. Twisted tales that shock yet are oh-so-satisfying. You have it all.
7 Deadly Sinners: India’s Most Feared Murderers by Debarati Mukhopadhyay is a collection of seven true crime cases. Across two centuries from the Mughal era to post-Indepence India, it chronicles the most devious minds in Indian history.
Over the years, I have made a conscious effort to diversify my reading. It has been rewarding and has enriched my reading experience. Read on as I share how I made my reading list more inclusive, why it is important, some practical tips, and my favorite picks.
It’s almost Spring time! February has been an interesting reading month with a bit more variety. A month that has been more about quality than quantity with work taking priority.
Set in the times of the Bengali renaissance, Chronicles of the Lost Daughters explores the socio-cultural politics of 19th-century Bengal including caste hierarchies, real-life figures, and events. A thought-provoking read that will have you turning the pages.
Lately, environmentalism and books on the environment have become mainstream. Popular authors such as Amitav Ghosh, Ramachandra Guha, and Madhav Gadgil have immensely contributed to it with their impactful writings. But not many are aware that India has a rich history of regional literature on the environment.
Indian women writers have always questioned societal norms through their writing. The literature has shaped the modern Indian woman of today who challenges patriarchy on a daily basis. I share some lesser-known feminist translated literature.