9 Novels By Female Indian Authors That You Ought To Read Once

    “That's the thing about books. They let you travel without moving your feet.” ― Jhumpa Lahiri

    Ambili
    by Ambili

    BuzzFeed Staff

    1. The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

    The Palace of Illusion / Via taleaway.com

    Why you ought to read it: If you are into the ancient tale of the Mahabharata, then this redefined chronicle, told from the point of view of Panchaali, can be quite refreshing to read.

    2. Tell a Thousand Lies by Rasana Atreya

    Tell a Thousand Lies

    Why you ought to read it: Ever been shunned for your dark skin? If so, then you might relate to this compelling novel that explores lives of subjugated women in India.

    3. The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri

    The Namesake

    Why you ought to read it: It's a book that can touch the hearts of not just immigrants, but all those who're away from their homeland, and have to deal with cultural and identity conflicts in their day-to-day lives.

    4. Mrs Funnybones by Twinkle Khanna

    Mrs. Funnybones

    Why you ought to read it: Highlighting the everyday struggles of the working woman, this hilariously light novel is something readers from all walks of life can easily identify with.

    5. Mahashweta by Sudha Murty

    Sudha Murthy

    Why you ought to read it: Murthy mirrors the ostracism often faced by Vitiligo patients in society. The prose beautifully projects the inner strength of a woman, who despite being loathed for her disease, never succumbs to the setbacks in her life.

    6. Delayed Monsoon by Chitralekha Paul

    Delayed Monsoon

    Why you ought to read it: Delayed Monsoon is a simple tale that encourages women to courageously follow their dreams rather than neglecting them to meet family expectations.

    7. The Village by the Sea by Anita Desai

    The Village by the Sea

    Why you ought to read it: Set in Thul, a tiny fishing village in Mumbai, Desai tells a tale of family love and survival, reminding one to always stay grateful towards life's simple gifts.

    8. The Twentieth Wife by Indu Sundaresan

    The Twentieth Wife

    Why you ought to read it: It captures the enchanting tale of the most controversial wife of Jahangir, Mehrunnisa, who trumped all obstacles and became an influential player in the Mughal empire. A must-read for all history buffs.

    9. Those Pricey Thakur Girls by Anuja Chauhan

    Those Pricey Thakur Girls

    Why you ought to read it: Based in the pre-internet era, this humorous novel can surely tickle your funny bone if you're into Indian chick-lit.