Discovering the Best Romantic Indian Novels

A great Indian horror novel is 'Annihilation' which takes place in a strange, otherworldly setting in India. The sense of isolation and the unknown creates a terrifying atmosphere. Another one is 'It Follows' which has been adapted into a movie. In the book, it has an Indian backdrop and the idea of a menacing entity following the characters is really scary.

'Raag Darbari' by Shrilal Shukla has some elements of romantic relationships within the complex web of rural society it portrays. It's not a pure - bred romance novel but the relationships and the way they are depicted add a touch of romance. It gives a great insight into the social fabric of rural Hindi - speaking areas.

A great romantic excerpt comes from 'Wuthering Heights' by Emily Bronte. Heathcliff says, 'I cannot live without my life! I cannot live without my soul!' about Catherine. It shows an intense and almost desperate love that is very characteristic of the novel's passionate and stormy relationships.

Salman Rushdie's 'Midnight's Children' is a must - mention. It's a magical realist take on India's independence and the generation born at that time. It's filled with political and cultural references.

'Khuda Ke Saaye Mein' by Ashfaq Ahmad is also very popular. It has a very heartwarming and pure form of love depicted. The story is set in a traditional context which adds to the charm of the romantic elements.

The Immortals of Meluha' by Amish Tripathi has elements of a romantic sub - plot. It's set in an ancient Indian world filled with mythology and adventure. The love story in it adds depth to the overall narrative.

Some other good ones are 'Those Pricey Thakur Girls' by Anuja Chauhan. It's a fun and romantic read set in Delhi. It has a great blend of family drama and romance. 'Unaccustomed Earth' by Jhumpa Lahiri also has some stories that touch on love and relationships in an Indian - American context. It's beautifully written with Lahiri's characteristic attention to detail. 'The Inheritance of Loss' by Kiran Desai has elements of love and loss which are very well - portrayed in the context of the characters' lives in different parts of the world.

I would also recommend 'A Suitable Boy' by Vikram Seth. Although it's a very long novel, it weaves in a beautiful love story along with political and social events that have a touch of mystery and thriller. The numerous characters and their inter - relationships create a complex and fascinating world that keeps you turning the pages.

'Two States: The Story of My Marriage' by Chetan Bhagat is also quite popular. It is a modern - day love story that humorously and realistically portrays the challenges faced by a couple from different Indian states when they decide to get married. It's relatable for many young Indians who face similar cultural and family differences in their relationships.

One of the best - selling Indian romantic novels is 'The Palace of Illusions' by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni. It retells the Indian epic, the Mahabharata, from the perspective of Draupadi, with elements of love, passion, and complex relationships.