This year, India Currents highlights significant contributions from South Asian authors, showcasing their exploration of personal and social themes through compelling narratives.
This year, the ‘Books’ section of India Currents has spotlighted prominent figures from the South Asian literary scene, including Booker Prize winners Arundhati Roy, Kiran Desai, Banu Mushtaq, and historian William Dalrymple. Alongside these literary heavyweights, the section has also featured emerging voices such as Megha Majumdar, Parul Kapur, and Rajesh C. Oza. Collectively, their works reflect a rich tapestry of struggles, resilience, and shared humanity.
Here’s a recap of the top five book stories that have captivated readers this year.
Mother Mary Comes To Me
Arundhati Roy’s latest memoir, “Mother Mary Comes To Me,” offers a profound exploration of her relationship with her mother, Mary Roy. Reviewed by Anjana Nagarajan Butaney, this memoir serves as an uncompromising reflection on the legacy of Roy’s mother, a notable Indian educator and activist. The narrative delves into the complexities of their mother-daughter bond, revealing how personal pain and rebellion have shaped Roy’s journey and her social-political dissent.
The Golden Road
In an engaging conversation with Meera Kymal of India Currents, historian William Dalrymple discusses his latest work, “The Golden Road.” Dalrymple presents India as a pivotal source of intellectual, economic, scientific, and spiritual ideas that have influenced the ancient world. The interview uncovers fascinating insights, including the origins of mathematics and the historical significance of India’s maritime prowess.
Heart Lamp
Banu Mushtaq’s “Heart Lamp,” a collection of short stories that earned her the International Booker Prize in 2025, is a poignant exploration of the inner lives of Muslim women in South India. The book, illustrated by Deepa Bhashti, employs sharp and witty prose to address critical themes such as patriarchy, gender, and class conflicts within the grassroots of the Muslim community in Karnataka. This collection shines a light on voices often left unheard.
A Guardian and a Thief
In “A Guardian and a Thief,” Megha Majumdar shares her insights into the immigrant experience through an interview with Ashwini Gangal. Majumdar reflects on her journey of building a life in the United States, balancing the joy of new beginnings with the sorrow of leaving her homeland. Her narrative resonates with many who navigate the complexities of identity and belonging in a foreign land.
Inside the Mirror
Debut author Parul Kapur’s “Inside the Mirror” is a poignant novel set in 1950s Bombay. Reviewed by Monita Soni, the story follows twin sisters Jaya and Kamlesh Malhotra as they grapple with the aftermath of Partition and the expectations of their Punjabi Khatri refugee family. The novel beautifully captures their quest for artistic identity amidst the societal pressures of their time.
These narratives not only showcase the literary prowess of South Asian authors but also provide a window into the diverse experiences and challenges faced by individuals in the region. The stories resonate with universal themes of identity, resilience, and the human spirit.
For more insights into these remarkable works, refer to India Currents.