India's literary heritage is vast, with cultural identity and historical significance. Indian literature dates back thousands of years to the ancient epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Several ancient scriptures depict the cultural and traditional history of India, unfolding the rich tapestry of India’s cultural and social influences.

In modern times, contemporary authors have helped shape the literary identity of India, highlighting India’s image on the global stage.

Some of the most celebrated Indian authors include Rabindranath Tagore, Mulk Raj Anand, R. K. Narayan, Ismat Chughtai, Salman Rushdie, Kamala Das and Arundhati Roy.

These writers have shaped the contemporary literary arc of India — the Indian literature we know today. Their works are widely recognised today, not only in India but across the world.

Rabindranath Tagore

Rabindranath Tagore, India’s prominent writer, poet and philosopher, is an important figure in Indian literature. His contribution to Indian literature is immense, with his poems and plays.

He was the first Indian to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913. Tagore’s most famous collection of poetry, Geetanjali, remains a quintessential work in Indian poetry.

Tagore framed India’s literary heritage with his works on social, national and political landscapes, which continue to inspire the youth today.

Mulk Raj Anand

Mulk Raj Anand is a pioneering figure in literary history. His writing often gave voice to the marginalised people of colonial India.

He skilfully portrayed the plight of people living under the harsh chains of discrimination, inequalities and social injustice.

His works like Untouchable and Coolie raised awareness about India’s socio-political situation, becoming an inspiration for many future generations of writers.

RK Narayan

RK Narayan, India’s beloved author, is famous for his simple day-to-day stories of common people and their lives.

His collection of short stories, Malgudi Days, is considered one of his most famous works, especially among children.

Narayan’s simplicity and portrayal of daily life serve as an example that sometimes all that matters in life are the simple things and little moments of happiness.

Salman Rushdie

Salman Rushdie, an international literary figure, is considered one of the most important voices in Indian literature.

His most famous work, Midnight’s Children, invoked conversations around India’s post-colonial landscape through a magical lens.

The novel won the Booker Prize in 1981 and the Best of the Booker in 2008. Rushdie’s work made a significant impact on global literature, bringing attention to the complexities of post-colonial India.

Arundhati Roy

Arundhati Roy’s The God of Small Things is one of the most popular books in contemporary literature.

She won the Booker Prize in 1997 for its creative exploration of themes such as family, forbidden love and social dynamics.

Roy is an international figure, known for her bold opinions and writing style. Her political opinions and non-fiction works such as The Ministry of Utmost Happiness and Field Notes on Democracy further establish her place as a free-spirited and prominent writer in India.

Kamala Das

Kamala Das is known for her bold and unconventional writing, often exploring the challenges faced by women in society.

She advocated for feminine freedom, frequently challenging the prevailing social and patriarchal norms.

Her autobiography, My Story, tells of her experience as a woman and explores topics that were seldom discussed.

Her writing redefined the role of women in society and established her as one of the most important female figures in India’s literary history.

These Indian authors have contributed significantly to Indian literature and have helped shape its literary arc.

They have left an indelible mark on the history of Indian literature, as well as shaped India’s international identity. Their writings continue to inspire the youth of India.

ALSO READ | Books: What To Read And What Not To...