Tracing the Growth of Indian English Literature: A Review of Major Writers and Works
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53573/rhimrj.2026.v13n05.010Keywords:
Indian English Literature, Postcolonial Literature, Indian Novel, English Language Writing, Literary History, Cultural IdentityAbstract
Indian English Literature has developed from a marginal literary tradition during the colonial period into a globally recognized body of writing. It reflects India's historical transformations, cultural diversity, social complexities, and evolving national identity. The use of English as a literary medium enabled Indian writer to engage with both local and international audiences while expressing distinctly Indian experiences. This paper traces the historical growth of Indian English Literature from its beginnings in the nineteenth century to its contemporary global prominence. It reviews the contributions of major writers such as Mulk Raj Anand, R. K. Narayan, Raja Rao, Kamala Markandaya, Anita Desai, Salman Rushdie, Amitav Ghosh, Arundhati Roy, and Jhumpa Lahiri. The study also examines significant themes including nationalism, colonialism, social inequality, gender, diaspora, and cultural identity. Through an analysis of representative texts, the paper highlights how Indian English Literature has evolved into a dynamic and influential literary tradition that continues to shape global literary discourse.
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