Greetings readers, and a happy Diwali to all.

This festive season illuminate your bookshelves with these sparkling literary gems. This time, we are shining the spotlight on the incredible tapestry of Indian authors, weaving stories that resonate with us at heart.
Grab your chai, snuggle into your comfiest reading spot, and get ready for a literary party that's all about celebrating the brilliance of desi narratives!

The Ministry of Utmost Happiness by Arundhati Roy
From the bustling streets of Old Delhi to the conflict-ridden valleys of Kashmir, this novel explores themes of love, loss, identity, and social justice. Roy's writing style is emotional and yet succeeds in bringing out comedic elements within its narrative.
'Normality in our part of the world is a bit like a boiled egg: its humdrum surface conceals at its heart a yolk of egregious violence.’
The Zoya Factor by Anuja Chauhan
A book tailor-made for the Indians at heart who believe in the supreme religion of this land – Cricket. A fun, humorous and romantic narrative to pick up when you need a break from the mundane life.
And yes, this is the book upon which that movie has been made, starring Sonam Kapoor and Dilquer Salman.

The Sialkot Saga" by Ashwin Sanghi
A business thriller that traverses across 2 timelines: 250 BCE, king Ashoka's reign and the present day Mumbai and Kolkata. In the present day, following the rivalry of Arbaaz Khan and Arvind Bagadia, the author has woven a story that oozes creativity and immaculate research.

The Other End of the Corridor by Sujata Rajpal
Dealing with emotionally gripping and heart-breaking themes of domestic marital violence, the book is a thought-provoking novel that delves into societal expectations and the pursuit of individual dreams.
It’s a coming-of-age narrative where the protagonist, Leela, fights against the abuse and finds her voice in this intimidating milieu.

Serious Men by Manu Joseph
It is a satirical novel that humorously critiques class and social structures in contemporary India. The novel explores diverse themes - ambition, societal expectations, politics in education, and the pursuit of truth, all set against the backdrop of the bustling city of Mumbai.
It’s a narrative where the reader can’t help but laugh and yet feel bad regarding the raw depiction of Mumbai chawls, an art that only Manu Joseph possesses.

The Lowland by Jhumpa Lahiri
“Things get broken, and sometimes they get repaired, and in most cases, you realize that no matter what gets damaged, life rearranges itself to compensate for your loss, sometimes wonderfully."
A poignant tale of two brothers and the impact of choices made in contemporary Kolkata, the novel spans multiple decades and explores themes of love and loss. Intricate storytelling and masterful writing create a narrative that provides a nuanced exploration of the complexities of familial bonds and individual choices.
When Dimple Met Rishi by Sandhya Menon
It is a delightful young adult romance set in the world of technology, exploring love and self-discovery in a modern, multicultural setting. The story revolves around Dimple Shah and Rishi Patel, and their journey as they navigate their differences, aspirations, and, ultimately, discover a connection that goes beyond cultural expectations.

That is a wrap of this special Diwali edition, where we've journeyed through the magic of Indian stories, from masterful wonders to indie gems. As you celebrate Diwali, may the sparkle of stories light up your days!
Until our next bookish rendezvous, happy Diwali and happy reading, lovely folks!