Here's the most special weekend for Indians, when the country rejoices in the celebration of its 69th Independence Day!The land of opportunity, with its rich cultural heritage, stands tall in the world as one of the most ancient civilizations. This land of dreams has given a lot to the world - Yoga, the principle of non-violence, spicy food, Bollywood! - but most of all, India is famous and known best for being the spiritual hot-spot of the world!
There is so much to be said about his wonderful country that a few inadequate words are in no way enough! So we decided to bring you a weekend reading list that will take you on a literal journey of this beautiful and amazing country -
1)
Malguudi Days by R. K. Narayan
Genre: Short Stories, General FictionThe essence of India is beautifully and exceptionally captured by R. K. Narayan in this cracker of a book of short stories. Every story that is part of Malgudi Days is the story of a simple, humble, true Indian. From a snake charmer to a postman; from a vendor of pies and chappatis to an astrologer, this magical book tells us stories of people as humans. A must-read to change the misconception that India is a mere mystic land of snake charmers!
2)
Midnight's Children by Salman RushdieGenre: Histotical Fiction, Magic Realism
Midnight's Children is the story of Saleem Sinai, born at midnight on August 15, 1947; and India, a country that attained freedom at that very instant! In this brilliant 'coming of age' novel, the nation and the child go through the pangs of birth, the tantrums of childhood, the distress of adolescence; and the uncertainties of adulthood together! A must-read if you are looking for a fascinating history lesson and an engrossing story!
3)
Shantaram by Gregory David RobertsGenre: General Fiction
Every country has its share of shining moments. Every country also has its share of tumultuous life; and Shantaram is the book that depicts this side of India, Mumbai in particular. This is the story of an escaped convict without a home or identity; who searches for love and meaning while running a clinic in one of the city's poorest slums. A must-read if you go for the dark stories that inspire and leave a mark!
4)
The Guide by R. K. NarayanGenre: General Fiction, Philisophical Fiction
Yes, this Narayan's second book on our list today; but what can we do, no one captures the essence of India better than this writer! The fictional town of Malgudi features again in this award-winning book. The Guide is the classic story of a charming and corrupt tour guide, who falls in love with a beautiful dancer, who is also the neglected wife of an archaeologist. What follows is a tale of passion, love, betrayal, mistrust and eventual spiritual awakening, like none other! A must-read if you are looking for a great story narrated using delightful humour!
5)
The White Tiger by Aravind AdigaGenre: General Fiction
And finally, the last one on our list today is a dark but humuorous story that depicts the rise of one man above the sad plight of corruption and caste restrictions in the Indian society. Believe us, this story of an ambitious, smart but poor Balram Halwai, will definitely touch your heart -and make you question the very basics that everyone born in India takes for granted!
And that wraps up our Independence Day weekend reading list! So go ahead, pick up a copy and indulge!
Happy reading!!
