5 Underrated Indian Authors You Should Read
Tired of seeing the same few names pop up on every Indian book list? While they deserve the recognition, many other talented voices are waiting to be discovered. Today, we shine a spotlight on five underrated Indian authors whose books deserve far more attention. If you love reading stories rooted in Indian culture, told with originality and flair, this list is for you.
Book: Abhimanyu: Son of Arjuna
Genre: Mythological Fiction
In Abhimanyu: Son of Arjuna, Anuja Chandramouli brings a lesser-known Mahabharata hero to vivid life. The novel is a compelling blend of valour, tragedy, and familial bonds, told through the lens of a young warrior fated to become a legend. Anuja’s lyrical prose and fresh perspective make this mythological tale both accessible and profound.
👉 Read the full review on Abhimanyu
Book: Vigil Aunties
Genre: Humorous Fiction / Contemporary
Vigil Aunties is a witty, whip-smart novel that flips the superhero trope on its head, with a gang of middle-aged women taking centre stage. Richa S. Mukherjee’s writing is sharp, socially aware, and incredibly entertaining. She blends humour and heart to deliver a story that is as endearing as it is empowering.
👉 Read the full review on Vigil Aunties
Book: Secret Diary of an Incurable Romantic
Genre: Contemporary Fiction / Romance
This modern-day romance is filled with emotion, humour, and the messiness of real relationships. Secret Diary of an Incurable Romantic follows the protagonist’s journey of heartbreak, rediscovery, and learning to love again. Chitrangada Mukherjee’s writing is honest and relatable, making it a gem for readers who love character-driven fiction.
👉 Read the full review on Secret Diary of an Incurable Romantic
Book: The World’s Best Boyfriend
Genre: Romance / Contemporary Fiction
Durjoy Datta’s The World’s Best Boyfriend is a gripping story of two broken people finding love and meaning in each other’s chaos. Despite his popularity, books like this showcase a deeper emotional undercurrent that often goes unnoticed. It’s sharp, engaging, and far more than your average campus romance.
👉 Read the full review on The World’s Best Boyfriend
Book: A Sweet Deal
Genre: Contemporary Romance / Food Fiction
Set in a world of bakeries, business deals, and second chances, A Sweet Deal is a deliciously light romance with deeper emotional layers. Andaleeb Wajid crafts a slow-burn love story between two ambitious people brought together by circumstance—and food. With a strong female lead and warm storytelling, this book is an underrated treat.
👉 Read the full review on A Sweet Deal
Final Thoughts
Some of these authors may not always top bestseller charts, but their stories are rich, resonant, and refreshing. If you’re looking to discover new voices in Indian fiction, these underrated gems are an excellent place to start.
Which of these have you read? Who would you add to this list? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
