Indian romance novels usually involved cross-cultural love and the exchange and integration of different ethnic groups. Such novels often depicted plots such as a girl from northern India meeting a boy from the south. They were attracted to each other but could not express their feelings due to cultural background and language barriers. Such novels often involved conflicts of race, religion, and social status and attempted to reveal the impact of these barriers on cross-cultural love. Indian romance novels often explored the complexity of human nature, including love, desire, loyalty, and betrayal.
Many Indian romance novels also deal with the concept of arranged marriages and how love can develop within that framework. They show the struggle between modern ideas of love and the age - old traditions. For instance, in novels like 'A Suitable Boy', the characters are navigating through the expectations of their families and society while also trying to find true love.
Many Indian romance novels are set against the backdrop of India's rich history and diverse landscapes. Whether it's in the palaces of Rajasthan or the bustling streets of Mumbai, the setting adds a unique flavor to the love stories. The characters in these novels usually have to navigate through social hierarchies and traditional values while falling in love.
Often, they blend cultural traditions. For example, many incorporate elements like arranged marriages. In Romance Indian novels, family also plays a huge role. The lovers may have to navigate family expectations, caste differences, and religious beliefs. This makes the love stories more complex and rich compared to some Western romances.
One characteristic is that they tend to be very emotional. They can make you laugh, cry, and feel a whole range of emotions. Take 'The Palace of Illusions' for instance. Draupadi's story is full of love, jealousy, and heartbreak. Also, Indian romance novels often incorporate elements of Indian mythology or history. This gives them a unique flavor. In 'The Immortals of Meluha', the story is based on a fictionalized version of ancient India's mythology. The romances are deeply intertwined with the characters' destinies and the larger story of the society or the world they live in. There is also a sense of community in these novels, as the characters' relationships are not just isolated love stories but are part of a bigger social fabric.
Often, historical romance Indian novels are rich in cultural details. They incorporate elements such as traditional Indian clothing, festivals, and social hierarchies. For example, in 'The Palace of Illusions', the descriptions of Draupadi's sarees and the grandeur of the Rajas' palaces are detailed. Another characteristic is the complex family and social relationships. Just like in 'A Suitable Boy', families play a crucial role in the love stories, with family approval or disapproval being a major factor. They also tend to blend historical events with fictional love stories. This makes the novels not only about love but also a window into India's past.
Indian contemporary romance novels often incorporate cultural elements. For example, family values play a huge role. The approval or disapproval of the family can be a major plot point as family is highly respected in Indian culture.
The novel 'The Far Pavilions' by M. M. Kaye also has elements of historical romance set in India. It tells the story of an Englishman who grows up in India and his love for an Indian princess. The descriptions of the Indian landscape, culture, and the historical context are vividly portrayed.
One characteristic is the strong influence of Indian culture. For example, in many novels, family values and traditions play a huge role in the romantic relationships. Arranged marriages are often a topic, and how love can develop within or in contrast to such a system.
One of the best - selling Indian romance novels is 'The Palace of Illusions' by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni. It retells the story of the Mahabharata from Draupadi's perspective and has elements of love, relationships, and the complex world of an Indian epic. Another popular one could be 'Two States' by Chetan Bhagat which focuses on a love story between a boy from Punjab and a girl from Tamil Nadu, highlighting the cultural differences and the journey of their relationship.