New Delhi: Indian mythological fiction has witnessed a massive resurgence, largely driven by Amish Tripathi’s Shiva Trilogy. Readers who enjoyed its humanised gods, political intrigue and action-packed storytelling often look for similar narratives rooted in ancient lore. These books reinterpret Hindu epics and legends through bold, contemporary lenses, narrating mythology with thriller, fantasy and socio-political drama. Each recommendation below offers layered characters, moral dilemmas and gripping plots that make timeless stories feel strikingly relevant.
If you are drawn to powerful protagonists, complex villains and philosophical undertones wrapped in fast-paced storytelling, these titles deserve space on your bookshelf. They explore familiar mythological worlds but challenge conventional viewpoints, presenting gods, warriors and anti-heroes as deeply human, flawed and compelling. Together, they continue the modern wave of Indian mythological fiction with imagination and ambition. Here are the recommendations.
Modern mythological fiction to read next
1. The Hidden Hindu by Akshat Gupta
A mythological science-fiction trilogy that fuses ancient secrets with a contemporary thriller. The story follows Prithvi, a young man searching for Om Shastri, a mysterious Aghori who claims to be 3,000 years old and to have lived through multiple yugas. Combining immortality, hidden knowledge and fast-paced twists, the series connects mythological timelines with modern conspiracies.
2. The Aryavarta Chronicles by Krishna Udayasankar
This trilogy reimagines the Mahabharata through a sharp socio-political lens. Centred on Govinda Shauri, a reinterpreted Krishna, the narrative dives into diplomacy, strategy and statecraft rather than divine miracles. Published between 2012 and 2014, the series offers a deep exploration of power, alliances and war in an intricately built Aryavarta.
3. Asura: Tale of the Vanquished by Anand Neelakantan
Often described as a retelling of the Ramayana from the defeated side, this novel presents Ravana not as a demon but as an ambitious and flawed ruler. Narrated partly by Ravana and partly by a common Asura named Bhadra, the book challenges traditional hero-villain binaries and humanises one of mythology’s most controversial figures.
4. Dharmayoddha Kalki by Kevin Missal
This fantasy-driven trilogy revisits the legend of Kalki, the prophesied 10th avatar of Vishnu. It follows young Kalki Hari as he discovers his destiny and confronts rising darkness. With expansive world-building and battle sequences, the series combines mythology and epic fantasy elements, appealing to readers who enjoy grand, cinematic storytelling.
5. The Krishna Key by Ashwin Sanghi
An anthropological thriller that intertwines mythology with a modern murder mystery. When history professor Ravi Mohan Saini is accused of murder, he uncovers clues tied to Lord Krishna and the legendary Syamantaka stone. The novel moves between past and present, blending historical research with suspense.
6. The Ramchandra Series by Amish Tripathi
For readers who wish to remain within the Amish universe, this four-book series retells the Ramayana using a multi-linear narrative structure. Each novel focuses on different characters, including Ram, Sita and Raavan, presenting overlapping perspectives and exploring themes of dharma, governance and moral responsibility.
These books prove that Indian mythology is far from static. Through inventive storytelling and fresh perspectives, they continue to reshape ancient legends for a new generation of readers seeking both depth and drama.