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Set in 1970s Iran and depicting the life of an Indian family there,  this graphic novel shows the impact of conflict on everyday life

Review: Persian Nights by Alaka Rajan Skinner

This week’s pick of interesting reads includes an anthology that depicts the various forms of the Devi, a meditative novel that looks at travel and otherness, and an early record of the Partition as it was experienced in Delhi

HT Picks; New Reads

The author of Blueprints: How Mathematics Shapes Creativity on celebrating the connections and the overlap between the realms of mathematics, creative art and nature

Marcus du Sautoy: “Shakespeare was also a number nerd”

The journey of the Tadoba-Andhari Reserve’s most famous female tiger inspires a deep appreciation for these magnificent cats

Review: Maya: The Biography of a Tiger by Anant Sonawane

Everything from AI in translation to linguistic hegemony and the hierarchy of languages was discussed at the national translation conference

Report: Bhashavaad 3.0

Karishma Swali’s atelier Chankya International has one of the most impressive textile archives in the country.&nbsp;

Inside Chanakya’s archives

The novel, which was longlisted for the 2026 Women’s Prize, explores the tension between historical truth and lived experience

Review: Indignity by Lea Ypi

Longlisted for the Booker Prize, this gothic romance set in a crumbling university town overtaken by foliage is a surreal satire on the state of academia

Review: The Vivisectors by Missouri Williams

The author of Gloria Don’t Speak on learning disabilities, echolalia, and developing a grammar and vocabulary for her protagonist

Lucy Apps: “It was difficult to find the perfect ending”

On the reading list this week is an account of important  women’s rights cases of the past 50 years, the best fiction from India written about animals, and a book that defines the systematic massacre in East Pakistan in 1971 as genocide

The Canadian novelist on religion, women, colonialism and empire and his latest book, The Apparition

MG Vassanji: “Writing is a form of resistance”

These 22 stories spanning three decades, several countries, and many faiths, explore the experience of being Tamil

Review: Tamil; The Best Stories Of Our Times edited by Perundevi

Sandip Roy’s biography of Chapal Badhuri, an iconic female impersonator on the Bengali jatra stage, is not only a celebration of his life but also a brief historical overview of the folk theatre form in the 20th century

Review: Chapal Rani, the Last Queen of Bengal by Sandip Roy

During his debut tour, the young Polish musician showed he is equally at ease with original compositions and interpretations of Beethoven and Led Zeppelin

Report: Marcin — Art of Guitar Tour 2026

The film adaptation of Enid Blyton’s book series trades some of the author’s subtlety for a contemporary warning about technology, but retains her idea that childhood needs room for wonderment

Book to Screen: The Magic Faraway Tree

On the ongoing devastation and suffering in Gaza and how people continue to hold on despite hardship, this is a picture of the nothingness that’s now left there

Review: A Historian in Gaza by Jean-Pierre Filiu

The author of Days of Recovery on her debut collection of poems written while she was battling cancer

Nomita Kapur: “Adversity is truly a great teacher”

On Agatha Christie’s 136th birth anniversary, a look at one of her enduring classics, The Murder of Roger Ackroyd

The murder mystery that changed the rules of the game

The Dimapur-based writer and filmmaker spoke about centralising women’s voices, preserving oral traditions, and the politics of filmmaking

Anungla Zoe Longkumer: “There’s an effort involved in accepting change”

On the reading list this week is a critical examination of street-based visual and performative practices, a memoir about a family and about the unmooring of Punjab, and a volume that traces the long history of monster-making

The author of Hazrat Mahal; The Rebel Begam of Awadh on Nawab Wajid Ali Shah’s wife who remained overlooked despite her political and military leadership during the 1857 uprising

Rosie Llewellyn-Jones: “She was a woman almost without fear”

This collection of 12 short stories shows how women often have to manipulate the patriarchal institution of marriage to make it meet their own needs

Review: The Way Home by Shanta Gokhale

This book on the tribal experience in Jharkhand’s Singbhum adds significantly to the existing knowledge of tribal history in general

Review: Fractured Communities by Umar Khalid

Class, shame, mental health and connection are explored in the Mike Kenny play that’s been performed in major metros across the country

Report: Bag Dancing by Butai

A visit to a small workshop in Sri Lanka prompts a meditation on the future of the still ubiquitous writing material

Of elephant poop and the future of paper

Featuring lonely elephants, smart fish and a host of other animals, this anthology of 25 stories inspired by Indian folktales carries quiet lessons

Review: Animal Tales from India by Chesta Wadhwani

Careening through generations and continents, the novel uses one Irish family to explore famine, memory and migration

Review: Land by Maggie O’Farrell

The author of Sons of Darkness, a reimagining of the Mahabharata, on moral ambiguity, violence, sexual consent, duty and storytelling

Gourav Mohanty: “When we reimagine epics, we become mythological DJs”

The author of The Sky Husband on the influence of the oral storytelling tradition, cultural memory, and the sense of humour of her people

Easterine Kire: “Joy comes naturally to me as a Naga”

This week’s pick of interesting reads includes a tragicomic tale that’s astute in its understanding of human relationships, an account of Mizoram’s political history with its longest-serving chief minister at its heart, and a volume of classic supernatural stories set in colonial India

Latest Books - Find the detailed information about Books and their Author name. Also find Most Popular Books in India and the World at Hindustan times.

Alaka Rajan Skinner’s graphic novel *Persian Nights: An Indian Child in Iran* chronicles her childhood in 1970s Iran, detailing cultural overlaps between Indian and Iranian cuisine and reflecting on her family’s expatriate experiences amid political upheaval. The narrative intertwines humor and poignant observations, ultimately illustrating how the Islamic Revolution and the Iran-Iraq War disrupted her life after a decade in the country.

**"Of Yakshinis, yoginis and more"** highlights 22 writers, including Anand Neelakantan and Shinie Antony, who explore lesser-known celestial women like Apsaras and Yoginis from Indian mythology, portraying them as powerful guardians of nature. This work draws on rich cultural narratives and local beliefs, emphasizing their integral connection to the subcontinent's spirit and land.

Mathematics intertwines creatively with art and nature, as highlighted in the author's book, framed as a triangle of structures. Both artists and mathematicians discover symmetries and patterns that connect disciplines, revealing surprising relationships. Historical figures like Shakespeare exemplify this, using numeric disruptions in poetry. The author advocates understanding mathematics as universally woven through daily experiences.

Journalist Anant Sonawane’s *Maya: The Biography of a Tiger* chronicles the life of Maharashtra's iconic tigress, Maya, from her curious cub days in Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve to her struggles as a fierce protector of her territory. Despite controversies surrounding her human interactions, Maya’s story highlights her role in boosting tourism and conservation efforts, illustrating her complex nature while educating on tiger behavior.

The third edition of Bhashavaad, a national translation conference, was held on August 29-30 in New Delhi, emphasizing the relevance of human translators in an era dominated by AI. Panel discussions explored linguistics' hierarchies and the role of identity in translation. The conference reflects growing interest in multilingualism and translation's impact on India's literary landscape. Established in 2024, Bhashavaad aims to foster dialogues among Indian languages, bridging readers and writers.

Chanakya International, a Mumbai atelier celebrating its 40th anniversary, preserves India's rich textile traditions, offering hand-embellished works to major fashion houses. Established by Vinod Shah, it features unique collections, including revival techniques and innovative materials. Current exhibitions highlight Chanakya's influence on art and education in textiles, emphasizing the enduring legacy of skilled craftsmanship and cultural heritage.

Lea Ypi's novel *Indignity*, longlisted for the 2026 Women’s Prize, explores the tension between historical truth and lived experience through her grandmother's life amid political upheaval. By investigating archival records and employing literary imagination, Ypi questions whether truth can restore dignity and highlights the complexity of memory within oppressive regimes, emphasizing the importance of storytelling.

Two Booker longlisted novels, Luke Kennard's *Black Bag* and Missouri Williams’s *The Vivisectors*, explore the campus genre through satire and surrealism. While Kennard critiques technocratic capitalism, Williams presents a gothic love story set in a foliage-dominated city, reflecting on academia's decline and societal ethics. Ultimately, Williams suggests that love may be humanity's redemption amid chaos.

Volunteering with women with learning disabilities deeply influenced the creation of Gloria, the protagonist in "Gloria Don't Speak." The author's experiences shaped their understanding of individuals with learning disabilities, enriching character development. The story explores themes of autonomy, communication, and societal biases, ultimately offering a unique narrative journey and reflecting the complexities of care and independence faced by Gloria and her mother.

The article underscores the evolution of women's rights in India over the past 50 years, highlighting key court cases that challenged societal norms and propelled the movement towards equality. Lawyer Mihira Sood's compelling narrative illustrates the role of judicial intervention within a fraught social and political context, demonstrating both the law’s transformative potential and its inherent limitations.

The novel's protagonist, Amir Hassan, confronts colonialism's entrenched hierarchies through a speculative lens, examining the human response to alien presence and cultural anxiety. The Avians exploit caste divisions reminiscent of historical colonial tactics. Although pessimistic about resistance's efficacy, the narrative underscores the importance of writing as a form of resistance against cultural erasure. Historical cycles of domination raise questions about hope and identity.

A new anthology edited by Perundevi showcases 22 diverse Tamil short stories from various authors, exploring identity and experience across continents. Highlighting themes of caste, gender, and migration, the collection includes vibrant narratives that confront life’s complexities. With strong translations, it expands the understanding of Tamil literature beyond stereotypes, capturing both emotional depth and cultural richness.

"Chapal Rani, the Last Queen of Bengal" explores the complex life of Chapal Bhaduri, an iconic jatra performer who defied traditional gender roles and challenged societal norms. Sandip Roy weaves a historical narrative within this creative non-fiction, revealing Bhaduri’s journey from a marginalized youth to a celebrated figure, while highlighting the nuances of identity, performance, and queerness. The book serves as a cultural document of 20th-century Bengali theater, making Bhaduri's legacy resonate beyond labels.

Polish guitarist Marcin Patrzalek captivated audiences during his debut performance in India at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre on August 7, blending classical and contemporary music. Known for innovative acoustic techniques, he humorously engaged the audience while showcasing his repertoire. Patrzalek's international journey includes collaborations and a commitment to nurturing local talent, enhancing his popularity in India.

In "The Magic Faraway Tree," director Ben Gregor updates Enid Blyton's classic tales by contrasting a tech-obsessed influencer with a whimsical fairyland, critiquing modern technology's influence on childhood wonder. The film emphasizes moral lessons and family bonds while addressing themes of self-acceptance and female solidarity, suggesting that true magic lies in nurturing one’s imagination beyond screens.

Jean-Pierre Filiu's "A Historian in Gaza" captures the dire state of the region, revealing its devastation through his experiences with Doctors Without Borders. He highlights the lasting impact of failed peace agreements, the dire humanitarian situation, and even the politics of water. The book serves as a poignant account of Gaza's realities that demands global attention.

In battling cancer, a writer found that both good and bad days shaped their poetry, reflecting emotional phases from unease to recovery. Their creative process embraced these experiences, revealing insights about life's frenetic pace. Ultimately, they emphasize that recovery involves patience and self-discovery, echoing the significance of inner awareness amid external chaos. Chittajit Mitra contributes deeply personal reflections after this transformative journey.

Agatha Christie's 1926 novel, *The Murder of Roger Ackroyd,* revolutionized detective fiction by challenging established narrative conventions. Set in King’s Abbot, it introduces an unreliable narrator whose insights mislead readers. This clever manipulation sparked controversy and debate, ultimately cementing its status as a classic. Christie’s innovative approach continues to influence contemporary thrillers today, blending deception with reader involvement.

The anthology *The Many That I Am: Writings from Nagaland* was a collaborative effort with Zubaan, emphasizing authentic voices from the region. Curator Saurabh Sharma balanced well-known authors and emerging writers to reflect diverse narratives, often centered on pain but ending in hope. Art serves as a vital medium for self-expression in Naga culture, especially for women.

Indian streets are vibrant visual landscapes, hosting festivals, protests, and art that reflect collective memory and socio-political sentiments. These spaces, shaped by neoliberal forces, facilitate expressions of identity and resistance, blending public and private realms. Such visual culture plays a vital role in civic engagement, challenging narratives of normalcy in urban life and societal structures.

Begum Hazrat Mahal, a key figure in the 1857 uprising against British rule, remains overshadowed due to historical narratives largely shaped by the British. Her leadership and the fragmented opposition she faced highlight complex societal tensions, including class struggles and a significant African presence in Lucknow. Unlike her more celebrated counterparts, Mahal's legacy was eclipsed by her less prominent background.

Shanta Gokhale's *The Way Home* explores marriage from women's perspectives, highlighting their agency within patriarchal structures. Through everyday narratives, characters navigate relationships, societal expectations, and personal desires. Gokhale's empathetic storytelling reveals the complexities of love and commitment, reflecting both women's struggles and men's roles, ultimately offering insights into family dynamics and individual identities entwined in ordinary life.

Umar Khalid’s "Fractured Communities" examines the political history of the Ho tribals in Jharkhand's Singbhum district from colonial to post-colonial times. Adapted from his PhD thesis, the book reveals how colonial powers manipulated tribal leadership for control, highlighting tensions between traditional governance and emerging democratic systems, underscoring the enduring struggles of tribal peoples against state and corporate advances. Khalid critiques the homogenized portrayal of tribal societies, revealing complex dynamics that challenge mainstream narratives.

Mike Kenny's play *Bag Dancing* tells the poignant story of Imelda, a homeless woman, and Neville, a shelter worker, exploring their complex friendship through themes of loss and healing. Produced by Bengaluru's Butai theatre group, the play reflects on war's impact, resonating with audiences across India through its emotional depth and relatable characters. Set against historical backdrop, it highlights the struggles of working-class lives.

A workshop near Sri Lanka's Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage transforms elephant dung into paper products, demonstrating an innovative recycling process. The dung, rich in fiber, undergoes sun drying, boiling, and blending before becoming usable paper. While not a complete replacement for wood, this process offers environmental benefits, addressing waste while generating income through unique products cherished by consumers.

Anthropomorphic animals in children’s literature, as highlighted by Chengcheng You, foster kinship with real creatures and raise environmental awareness. Chesta Wadhwani’s anthology, Animal Tales from India, intertwines adventure and moral lessons, exemplified by tales of cooperation and resilience among animals. The book emphasizes themes of friendship and protection, appealing to contemporary readers while drawing on cultural storytelling traditions.

Maggie O’Farrell’s ambitious novel *Land* explores the complexities of mapping Ireland post-Great Famine through Tomás, a surveyor grappling with his role in a colonial endeavor while trying to preserve a fragmented history. The narrative unfolds across generations, revealing the family’s struggles with loss, migration, and identity, illustrating how maps obscure the lived experiences that define them.

"Sons of Darkness" reinterprets the Mahabharata, emphasizing moral ambiguity and flawed characters rather than conventional heroes and villains, as the author,Rutvik Bhandari, explores perspectives of traditionally vilified figures like Shakuni. This novel blends Indian epic narratives with global epic fantasy influences, challenging readers to question established morals and societal issues like consent and duty.

At The White Owl Literature and Book Fair, a Naga writer emphasized the importance of joy, even in pain, using humor as a survival tool. Rooted in oral traditions, storytelling reflects collective wisdom and cultural memory. They encourage the younger generation to listen and enjoy stories to preserve their legacy without feeling burdened by duty.

Joachim Coutinho leaves Mangalore for a challenging life in Bahrain, hoping to escape poverty and pursue his dreams of acting, but faces loneliness and inadequacy instead. His nephew, Darrel Serrao, envies his uncle’s seemingly successful life abroad. This narrative of family, ambition, and disillusionment reflects the deeper themes of migration and human relationships.

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