Year Round Up 2024: Award-Winning Books by Indian Authors

As 2024 comes to a close, it's time to celebrate the literary achievements of Indian authors whose works have garnered critical acclaim and prestigious awards this year. From poignant narratives to compelling storytelling, these books have left an indelible mark on readers worldwide. Let's delve into the top award-winning books by Indian authors in 2024.

1. "Knife: Meditations after an Attempted Murder" by Salman Rushdie

In "Knife: Meditations after an Attempted Murder," Salman Rushdie offers a profound reflection on his life and the art of writing following the 2022 attack on him. This collection of essays and meditations delves into themes of resilience, identity, and the power of storytelling, reaffirming Rushdie's place as a literary luminary.

Rating: 4.7/5

Age Category: Adult, 20+

2. "Maria, Just Maria" by Sandhya Mary

Sandhya Mary's "Maria, Just Maria," translated from Malayalam by Jayasree Kalathil, is among the most anticipated Indian books of 2024. The novel tells the story of a woman striving to find her place in the world, offering a poignant exploration of identity and self-discovery. Mary's evocative prose and deep character insights make this a compelling read.

Rating: 4.7/5

Age Category: Adult, 20+

3. My Beloved Life – Amitava Kumar

Amitava Kumar’s My Beloved Life is a masterpiece that traces the trajectory of Jadu, a man whose humble beginnings evolve into an extraordinary life filled with love, loss, and meaning. From his childhood in 1935 to his career as a historian, Jadu’s life is a poignant reflection of the triumphs and tragedies that define human existence. Kumar’s storytelling prowess shines through as the novel effortlessly shifts between the mythical and the mundane. This book invites readers to think deeply about the ways in which ordinary lives become extraordinary through the relationships we forge and the legacies we leave behind. The beauty of this narrative lies in its simplicity, which is nothing short of mesmerising.

Rating: 4.1/5

Age Category: Adult, 18+

4. You: A Novel – M. Mukundan

M. Mukundan’s You: A Novel is not for the faint of heart. The book takes on the controversial topic of death by choice and examines it through the lens of Unnikrishnan, a 70-year-old man who decides to announce the date of his own death. The mystery surrounding his past and the questions about why he chooses to end his life are explored through the eyes of a young journalist named Paru. As Paru tries to uncover the truth, readers are forced to confront profound questions about life, death, and the meaning of existence. Mukundan’s ability to tackle complex emotions in a deeply human way makes this novel a compelling read for anyone looking to explore the deeper aspects of life.

Rating: 4.4/5

Age Category: 18+

5. Wise And Otherwise | A Salute To Life – Sudha Murthy

Sudha Murthy’s Wise And Otherwise is a treasure trove of life lessons wrapped in beautifully crafted stories. Her knack for blending humour with profound insights is on full display here. Each story takes readers through various walks of life, teaching them the importance of compassion, kindness, and the pursuit of knowledge. Sudha’s brand as a storyteller is reflected in the way her narratives resonate with readers long after they’ve put the book down. Her simple yet impactful writing continues to inspire readers from all walks of life, making this book an invaluable addition to anyone’s collection.

Rating: 4.8/5

Age Category: 16+

6. The Other Sister – Amrita Tripathi

Amrita Tripathi’s The Other Sister isn’t just a novel; it’s a deep dive into the complexities of finding yourself in the middle of chaos. Maya, the protagonist, finds herself going offline and disappearing from the lives of her friends. As she navigates the turbulent waters of family trauma, personal secrets, and generational conflicts, readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster that highlights the dichotomy of hyper-connectivity versus deep isolation in today’s world. Amrita's exploration of mental health, faith, and the search for identity amidst societal pressure is both poignant and relatable. Her brand, Tap in Tribe, which empowers women in leadership, is reflected in the strength and resilience of Maya’s journey.

Rating: 4.6/5

Age Category: 18-40

7. Her One True Love by Ruchita Misra

Ruchita Misra's "Her One True Love" is a contemporary romance that explores themes of love, destiny, and second chances. The novel follows the journey of its protagonists as they navigate the complexities of relationships, offering readers a heartfelt and engaging narrative.

Rating: 4.5/5

Age Category: Adult readers, 18+

8. "Acts of God" by Kanan Gill

Kanan Gill, known for his sharp wit and observational humour, makes a compelling foray into literature with "Acts of God". This novel explores the chaotic intertwining of lives in a small Indian town following a seemingly miraculous event. Gill's signature humour, combined with poignant moments of human connection, makes this a refreshing addition to Indian contemporary fiction. 

Rating: 4.4/5

Age Category: Adult readers, 18+

9. "The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy

Arundhati Roy's "The God of Small Things" continues to captivate readers with its lyrical prose and profound storytelling. This Booker Prize-winning novel delves into the complexities of family dynamics and societal norms in Kerala, India, through the eyes of fraternal twins Estha and Rahel. Roy's masterful narrative remains a timeless piece in Indian literature.

Rating: 4.5/5

Age Category: 18+

10. "Em and the Big Hoom" by Jerry Pinto

Jerry Pinto's "Em and the Big Hoom" is a semi-autobiographical novel that poignantly portrays a Goan family's life in Bombay, focusing on the matriarch's journey through mental illness. The narrative balances humor and sorrow, offering a heartfelt exploration of family dynamics and the impact of mental health on loved ones.

Rating: 4.2/5

Age Category: 18+

11. "The Inheritance of Loss" by Kiran Desai

Kiran Desai's "The Inheritance of Loss" continues to be celebrated for its poignant narrative and exploration of identity and belonging. Set in the northeastern Himalayas, the novel intertwines the lives of a retired judge, his granddaughter, and their cook against the backdrop of political unrest. Desai's rich storytelling offers a deep dive into the human condition and the effects of colonialism.

Rating: 4.2/5

Age Category: 18+

12. "The Memoirs of Valmiki Rao" by Lindsay Pereira

Lindsay Pereira's "The Memoirs of Valmiki Rao" offers a satirical look at the life of a fictional Indian author, blending humor with sharp social commentary. Pereira's unique storytelling and character development have earned critical acclaim, making it a noteworthy addition to contemporary Indian literature.

Rating: 4.4/5

Age Category: 18+

13. "The Henna Start-Up" by Andaleeb Wajid

Andaleeb Wajid's "The Henna Start-Up" has charmed readers with its delightful tale of a young entrepreneur blending traditional art with modern business acumen. This engaging narrative not only entertains but also inspires, making it a favorite among both young readers and adults. Wajid's storytelling prowess shines through, offering a vibrant portrayal of cultural heritage meeting contemporary aspirations.

Rating: 4.5/5

Age Category: 18+

14. "Ladies' Tailor" by Priya Hajela

Priya Hajela's "Ladies' Tailor" is a compelling narrative about refugees post-Partition. The story follows Gurdev and his cohort as they navigate the challenges of displacement and identity. Hajela's empathetic character portrayals and engaging storytelling have earned the book critical acclaim.

Rating: 4.5/5

Age Category: 18+

15. "The Unproposed Guy" by Bhavik Sarkhedi

Bhavik Sarkhedi's "The Unproposed Guy" offers a fresh perspective on love and relationships in modern India. The novel follows the journey of a young man navigating the complexities of romance and societal expectations. Sarkhedi's engaging narrative and relatable characters resonate with readers across age groups, making it a standout in contemporary Indian fiction.

Rating: 4.0/5

Age Category: 18+

Now don't just listen, dive right into these extraordinary tales by Indian authors that have taken 2024 by storm! Which one will you pick up next?