15 Modern Takes on Hindu Mythology: Must-Read Books to Deepen Your Understanding of Diwali and Indian Epics

Whether you’re looking for thrilling action, complex characters, or alternative perspectives on mythology, these books provide a perfect mix of tradition and innovation. They’ll not only immerse you in the world of Hindu mythology but also offer fresh perspectives on the epics that influence so much of the festive season.

These novels, comics, and modern retellings explore not only the narratives of the epics but also the characters, themes, and lessons from Hinduism. They serve as engaging reads to deepen one’s understanding of the rich mythology behind the festival of Diwali and Hindu traditions.

1. “Ram: Scion of Ikshvaku” by Amish Tripathi

The first book in the Ram Chandra series, Amish Tripathi’s retelling of the Ramayana begins with a fascinating exploration of Lord Ram’s life, blending ancient mythology with modern storytelling. It’s a perfect Diwali read to dive deeper into the origins of the festival and the tale of Lord Ram’s return to Ayodhya.

2. “Sita: Warrior of Mithila” by Amish Tripathi

A second book in the Ram Chandra series, this reimagines Sita, not just as Ram’s wife but as a fierce warrior and a strong character in her own right. This gripping portrayal redefines Sita, highlighting her strength and leadership, offering readers a fresh perspective on the Ramayana during the festive season.

3. “The Palace of Illusions” by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

A beautiful retelling of the Mahabharata from Draupadi’s point of view, this novel offers insight into one of the central female figures of the epic. It’s a deep exploration of destiny, power, and sacrifice through a fresh lens. Perfect for readers wanting to understand the nuances of one of Hinduism’s greatest epics.

4. “Ajaya: Roll of the Dice” by Anand Neelakantan

A unique take on the Mahabharata from the perspective of Duryodhana, this series flips the traditional narrative. It challenges readers to view the epic from a different perspective, questioning the age-old binaries of good versus evil.

5. “Jaya: An Illustrated Retelling of the Mahabharata” by Devdutt Pattanaik

One of the most accessible and widely read retellings, Pattanaik’s Jaya covers the entire Mahabharata in an engaging narrative, interspersed with illustrations and explanations of the symbolism and relevance of key themes. This is perfect for those looking to connect the stories of the epic with modern-day Hinduism and the festival of Diwali.

6. “Asura: Tale of the Vanquished” by Anand Neelakantan

In this novel, Ravana is depicted not as a mere antagonist of Lord Ram, but as a complex and multi-layered figure. Asura tells the Ramayana from Ravana’s point of view, offering readers a narrative from the other side, showcasing the grey areas of mythology.

7. “Arjuna: Saga of a Pandava Warrior-Prince” by Anuja Chandramouli

This fictional retelling of the Mahabharata focuses on Arjuna, one of the five Pandavas. Chandramouli captures his complexities, struggles, and journey through the epic. It’s a beautifully written book for those who want to understand one of the most important figures of the Hindu epics.

8. “The Krishna Key” by Ashwin Sanghi

A modern thriller set against the backdrop of ancient Hindu mythology, The Krishna Key interweaves historical and contemporary storytelling to explore the life of Lord Krishna. It blends mythology with a fast-paced narrative and offers insights into the divine figure at the heart of many Hindu stories.

9. “Karna’s Wife: The Outcast’s Queen” by Kavita Kane

A retelling of the Mahabharata from the perspective of Uruvi, Karna’s wife, this novel explores the tragic life of Karna, the misunderstood and valiant anti-hero of the Mahabharata. It’s a great read for those interested in Karna’s journey and the moral complexities surrounding him.

10. “Shiva Trilogy” by Amish Tripathi

Though not directly tied to the Ramayana or Mahabharata, this trilogy reimagines Lord Shiva as a mortal hero. The Immortals of Meluha, The Secret of the Nagas, and The Oath of the Vayuputras combine mythology, fantasy, and philosophy to create a riveting narrative about the transformation of a tribal leader into a god-like figure.

11. “Adventures of Hanuman” by Anant Pai (Amar Chitra Katha)

A classic from Amar Chitra Katha, this comic series introduces younger readers to the tales of Hanuman, the devoted servant of Lord Ram. It’s a fantastic way for both children and adults to dive into the stories surrounding Diwali, including Hanuman’s role in the rescue of Sita and the defeat of Ravana.

12. “Mahabharata: The Condensed Version” by Ramesh Menon

This is an abridged retelling of the epic Mahabharata, balancing the grandeur of the original with a pace and format that’s accessible for modern readers. Perfect for a deep dive into the key moments and characters of the epic, which still resonates in Hindu culture today.

13. “Ramayana 3392 AD” (Graphic Novel)

A futuristic reimagining of the Ramayana, this comic series transports the ancient characters and stories into a dystopian world. It’s an action-packed, modern interpretation that blends mythology with sci-fi, making it an exciting and fresh read for Diwali.

14. “Sons of Darkness” by Gourav Mohanty

This debut novel is a dark, gritty retelling of the Mahabharata, exploring the moral complexities of the characters and their struggles in a brutal, war-torn world. It offers readers an alternative take on the epic, making it ideal for those who enjoy morally grey characters and a more intense reimagining of mythology.

15. “Ramayana: Divine Loophole” by Sanjay Patel

A visually stunning graphic novel, Ramayana: Divine Loophole tells the classic tale of Lord Ram with vibrant illustrations. It’s a great introduction to the Ramayana for younger readers or anyone who enjoys graphic novels.