Three New Books Reimagining Indian Culture and History Receive Praise

A fortnightly literary column has highlighted three distinct books, giving each a positive rating. The reviewed works span a Bollywood-inspired retelling of a classic, historical fiction about Indian magicians in America, and a collection of queer stories set across India.

Basu's novel reimagines Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray within the film industry of contemporary Bollywood. The story follows a writer turned screen idol, utilizing modern Indian cinema and artificial intelligence concerns to critique cultures obsessed with youth and vanity.

Another featured work, Brinda Charry's Hocus Pocus, centers on Indian conjurers touring the United States during the early 1800s. Led by a young magician from Madras performing under a manufactured persona in Boston, the historically grounded novel touches upon themes of race, colorism, and Orientalism.

Additionally, Shastri Akella's short story collection, A Queer Shade Of Saffron, explores non-conforming desires across multiple regions of India. The narratives examine the link between love and rebellion while reclaiming cultural symbols.