The Indian literary scene in 2025 is brimming with groundbreaking fiction, bringing together diverse narratives, powerful storytelling, and unique perspectives. From award-winning authors to debut voices, lineup of Indian Fiction of 2025 explores themes of identity, history, mythology, and contemporary social issues.
As readers eagerly anticipate the most promising books of the year, we take a deep dive into the must-read Indian fiction of 2025. Whether you love historical sagas, feminist retellings, speculative fiction, or thought-provoking contemporary novels, there’s something for every book lover on this list.
Must-Read Indian Fiction of 2025
With several highly anticipated releases, must-read Indian fiction of 2025 promises something for everyone. Here are some standout titles generating excitement:
1️⃣ “Deviants” by Santanu Bhattacharya
- Release Date: February 2025
- Genre: Contemporary Fiction, LGBTQ+
- Why Read It? A deeply moving novel spanning three generations of gay men in India, exploring their struggles and triumphs against the backdrop of changing societal and legal landscapes. Santanu Bhattacharya’s powerful storytelling examines themes of loneliness, acceptance, and resilience.
2️⃣ “Mother Mary Comes to Me” by Arundhati Roy
- Release Date: April 2025
- Genre: Memoir, Literary Fiction
Why Read It? Arundhati Roy delivers a heartfelt exploration of her relationship with her mother, Mary. This deeply personal narrative blends history, emotion, and sharp political insights, making it one of the year’s most anticipated reads
3️⃣ “Badass Begums” by Anoushka Jain
- Release Date: March 2025
- Genre: Historical Fiction, Feminism
- Why Read It? This book revisits the forgotten yet powerful women of Indian history, shedding light on figures like Razia Sultan, Jahanara Begum, and Chand Bibi. A must-read for history lovers and those interested in feminist narratives.
4️⃣ “Learning from Silence” by Pico Iyer
- Release Date: June 2025
- Genre: Literary Non-Fiction, Philosophy
- Why Read It? A meditative book exploring the impact of silence and solitude on human consciousness. Pico Iyer takes readers on an introspective journey that blends travel, philosophy, and self-discovery.
5️⃣ “The Himalaya in a Small House” by Anuradha Roy
- Release Date: July 2025
- Genre: Literary Fiction, Travel Memoir
- Why Read It? Anuradha Roy paints a vivid portrait of life in the Himalayas, offering a rich and immersive reading experience that blends nature writing with personal storytelling.
The Best Indian Fiction Books to Read in 2025
6️⃣ “Goddess Complex” by Sanjena Sathian
- Release Date: August 2025
- Genre: Mythological Fiction, Contemporary Fiction
- Why Read It? A unique fusion of mythology and modern storytelling, this novel delves into themes of power, destiny, and divine femininity.
7️⃣ “The Midnight King” by Tariq Ashkanani
- Release Date: October 2025
- Genre: Dystopian Fiction, Thriller
- Why Read It? A gripping tale set in a near-future India, exploring themes of power, rebellion, and the fight for freedom. Perfect for fans of speculative fiction.
In-Depth Review: “Deviants” by Santanu Bhattacharya
One standout novel this year is “Deviants” by Santanu Bhattacharya, released in February 2025. This poignant narrative spans three generations of gay men in India, intertwining their personal journeys with the nation’s evolving legal and cultural landscape regarding LGBTQ+ rights.
Bhattacharya masterfully critiques the notion of linear progress, highlighting the persistent challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community despite legal advancements. The novel delves deep into themes of loneliness, societal shame, and the universal quest for love and acceptance. Its rich character development and evocative prose make “Deviants” a compelling read for those interested in nuanced storytelling that challenges societal norms.
Plot Overview:
Dream Count follows the journey of a young Nigerian writer who grapples with the evolving landscape of storytelling in a digital era. Through a series of interconnected stories, the novel explores themes of identity, migration, love, and resilience. As the protagonist navigates cultural expectations and personal ambitions, Adichie masterfully weaves a tale that resonates with readers across generations.
Why You Should Read It:
- Powerful Prose: Adichie’s signature lyrical writing is both poetic and emotionally raw.
- Timely Themes: The novel touches on pressing issues such as digital censorship, artistic freedom, and cultural heritage.
Immersive Storytelling: A blend of traditional storytelling and modern literary techniques makes this book a compelling read.
Reader Recommendations
Based on current trends and anticipated releases, here are some must-read Indian fiction titles for 2025:
- “Mother Mary Comes to Me” by Arundhati Roy: An emotional memoir exploring love, loss, and the author’s intricate relationship with her mother, Mary.
- “Badass Begums” by Anoushka Jain: A feminist historical narrative shedding light on India’s unsung queens, including Razia Sultan and Jahanara Begum.
“Learning from Silence” by Pico Iyer: A reflective piece on the transformative power of silence, drawing from the author’s experiences in various retreats.
“The Himalaya in a Small House” by Anuradha Roy: A vivid portrayal of the author’s journey building a life in the Himalayas, capturing the essence of mountain living. - “Goddess Complex” by Sanjena Sathian: A contemporary tale intertwining mythology and modern life, exploring the divine in the everyday.
- “The Midnight King” by Tariq Ashkanani: A gripping narrative set in a dystopian future, delving into themes of power, identity, and resistance.
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Article Highlights
- ✔ A curated list of the most anticipated Indian fiction books of 2025.
- ✔ A mix of contemporary fiction, historical retellings, memoirs, and speculative fiction.
- ✔ Insightful book summaries with release dates and reasons why they are must-reads.
- ✔ Featuring established authors like Arundhati Roy and Pico Iyer, as well as emerging voices.
- ✔ Covers trending genres such as climate fiction, feminist narratives, and dystopian literature.
Conclusion
The year 2025 promises to be a landmark year for Indian fiction, with authors bringing fresh, compelling narratives that captivate and inspire. Whether you are looking for deeply emotional storytelling, history-driven narratives, or thought-provoking contemporary fiction, this list offers something for everyone.
Which book are you most excited to read? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe to Read Mitra for more book recommendations and literary discussions!
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