With July come the monsoons, and rains and books are a brilliant combination- after all, what is better than curling up on a chair and spending all day reading a book while the monsoon winds thunder outside your window? In July, the Indian fiction up for grabs will amaze you. While Amish’s latest book in the Ram Chandra Series will show you a different side of Raavan, Aditya Iyengar’s book tells an alternative story of Sita. Read stories from the magical lands of Manipur and Nagaland, and enjoy translated works of Ismat Chughtai and Sadat Hasan Manto. So as you prepare to enjoy the rains with a cup of coffee, mark your calendar and get a copy of any one (or all) of these soon-to-be-released books by Indian authors.

01

Raavan: Enemy Of Aryavarta

Amish

Many believe Raavan is the villain of the Ramayana, but only a few are aware of his many facets. Although fathered by a great sage and blessed by the Gods, Raavan’s resolve to rule the world and his extreme greed ultimately led to his downfall. But why did he become like that? Amish, in the third book in the Ram Chandra series, brings to us a different take on Raavan, the king of Lanka. The author seeks to shed light on the complexities that make up Raavan’s character- a man capable of cruelty, yet revered as a great scholar. After reading this book, you are likely to understand more about the fearsome demon-king.

Releasing on July 01, 2019. Buy it here.

02

Tagore: A Novel

K.C. Ajayakumar

In this fictional retelling of Rabindranath Tagore’s life, we are introduced to the different facets of this eminent man who is considered one the greatest literary geniuses in Indian literature. K.C. Ajayakumar brings to us the earliest accounts of Tagore’s life, how his childhood shaped him and how his sensibility shone through his art and literature. Tagore: A Novel tells us a story of a man and his friendships with notable greats like William Butler Yeats,  Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi, and how he rose to fame in the literary world.

Releasing on July 20, 2019. Buy it here.

03

From One Birth To Another: Stories From Jaina Literature

Sudhamahi Regunathan (Tr.)

The stories from the Jaina scriptures were written to convey Jainism’s teachings in a more relatable and fun manner. Sudhamahi Regunathan has expertly translated some of these tales into English to introduce us to the wonderful and whimsical stories of Jaina literature. Expect to read stories of a girl who teaches a monk the art of restraint, a boy who is forced to carry on his father’s butchering business, and a man who takes a keen interest in the Kamasastra. While they may sound light, there is deep meaning in each tale.

Releasing on July 20, 2019. Buy it here.

04

Bhumika: A Story Of Sita

Aditya Iyengar

In the opening pages of this book, we meet a tired and slowly withering away Sita, who is contemplating the ‘what ifs’ of her life. She wonders what would have happened to her had she not married Rama. Where would her fate have taken her had she not returned to Ayodhya only to bear the brunt of insults? She is constantly plagued by these questions, until one day, Sage Vishvamitra shows her who she could have been instead – Bhumika, a queen who challenges every norm. As the book unfolds, you will come across two enigmatic and powerful women, both unique in their own way. This story promises to be an inspiration to all who read it. 

Releasing on July 25, 2019. Buy it here.

05

Emperor Vikramaditya

Adity Kay

Chandra, prince of Magadha, is popular with his people and has contributed significantly to bringing prosperity and stability to his kingdom. Yet, his mind is always troubled. He is duty-bound to obey Ramagupta, his older brother and heir to the throne, despite believing that Ramagupta’s decisions will ultimately lead to the downfall of their Empire. Conflicted between his duty as prince and loyalty to the heir, as well as challenged by a dangerous enemy, Chandra must overcome every obstacle that comes his way and become the man his people need – Emperor Vikramaditya.

Releasing on July 25, 2019. Buy it here.

06

Manto And Chughtai: The Essential Stories

Muhammad Umar Memon & M Asaduddin (Trs.)

Ismat Chughtai and Saadat Hasan Manto need no introduction, and their contribution to Urdu literature is unparalleled. Known for their controversial writings, it is imperative that we get an opportunity to enjoy their great works in English. Manto And Chughtai: The Essential Stories is a collection of some of their best work, replete with themes of Partition, sex, violence and complex relationships. Manto and Chughtai will leave you spellbound, and that is a guarantee!

Releasing on July 25, 2019. Buy it here.

07

Crafting The Word: Writings From Manipur

Thingnam Anjulika Samom (Ed.)

Although Manipuri literature is steeped in rich folk and oral narratives, women began publishing only in the latter half of the 20th century. In a world doused with patriarchy and armed conflicts, these writings have given us a chance to hear previously unheard voices. Through discussions and workshops, Editor Thingnam Anjulika Samom has managed to bring to life the stories of the rich and vibrant culture of Manipur, told by its women. This book is not to be missed!  

Releasing in July 2019.

08

The Many That I Am: Writings From Nagaland

Anungla Zoe Longkumer (Ed.)

The lives of Naga women are influenced by the rise of Christianity and the burden of learning a ‘new’ language as well as plagued by the constant threat of war and violence. Yet, the women writers featured in this book passionately believe in their work, and editor Anungla Zoe Longkumer brings together their tales. Consisting of stories, poems, first-person narratives and photographs, this book will introduce you to the many layers of Naga culture.

Releasing in July 2019.

Disclaimer: Some of these books were previously available on Kindle or as international editions which were available for import. This list features Indian editions of these books, which tend to be more affordable. The information featured here is accurate as of June 27, 2019.

Which of these fiction books by Indian authors do you find most interesting? Are you planning to buy any of these books by Indian authors? Do you recommend any other books by India authors releasing in July 2019? Share with us in the comments.