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10 Must-Read Biographies of Indians Who Transformed The Nation

Here’s a list of 10 biographies of pioneering Indians -- from Dr Ambedkar and Satyajit Ray to APJ Abdul Kalam and Kapil Dev -- that will leave you inspired.

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In his biography, ‘India’s Missile Man’ Dr APJ Abdul Kalam recalls that when he worked as a newspaper boy as a child, he would fold the paper in the shape of a rocket before throwing it towards a house, so it would land straight in the home’s compound. 

Often, big dreams of making discoveries, setting records, and spawning revolutions start from such seemingly silly stories . The biographies of India’s great personalities are an accumulation of many such tales, which tell of their hardwork and perseverance, and what it took to leave a mark on India’s history. 

Here are our recommendations of must-read biographies that will leave you inspired:

1. Dilip Kumar: The Definitive Biography by Bunny Reuban

“This is the story of Dilip Kumar, an introverted and inhibited youth who metamorphosed into a thespian par excellence by the sheer dint of his determination, perseverance and capability.” 

Dilip became the face of Indian cinema and produced several notable films. The book deals with his personal life and his relationship with the film fraternity.  

The author is an Indian film historian, journalist and publicist. 

Buy the book here .

2. Satyajit Ray: The Inner Eye by Andrew Robinson

One of the greatest filmmakers the country has ever seen, Satyajit Ray was an exceptionally versatile artist. He won every major prize in cinema for his films including Apu Trilogy, The Music Room, Charulata, Days and Nights in the Forest, The Chess Players and The Stranger. The book is written by interviewing the legend himself, his friends, well-wishers, actors, and family. 

The author is a British writer and former newspaper editor.

3. The Man Who Knew Infinity (Srinivasa Ramanujan) by Robert Kanigel

This book details the relationship between mathematics genius Ramanujan and his tutor G H Hardy from Cambridge University. 

Their friendship turned the fate of mathematics across the world. It was in 1913 that Ramanujan, an unschooled Indian clerk, wrote a letter to G H Hardy, begging his opinion on several ideas the former had about numbers. This resulted in Ramanujan’s arrival to England.

The book was also adapted into a 2016 film starring Dev Patel, Jeremy Irons, Stephen Fry, Toby Jones, and Devika Bhise.

4. Sir C V Raman by Uma Parameswaran

Being the first non-white as well as the first Asian to receive a Nobel Prize in a branch of science in 1930, C V Raman’s academic achievements have been highly documented. 

But only a few document his personal life. This book is among them, covering the major influences and events that made Raman the scientist that he was. 

The author is a Canadian writer of Indian origin.  

5. Beyond the Last Blue Mountain (JRD Tata) by R M Lala

The book covers major milestones from the pioneering industrialist’s birth until his death in 1993. 

It has four parts — the first deals with his early years and accession to the chairmanship of Tatas at the age of thirty-four; the second covers the period that led to the initiation of the Indian aviation industry; the third talks about his reign as an outstanding personality of India’s industries; and the fourth deals with his personal relationships with political figures as well as celebrities.

The author is an editor and publisher known for his chronicles of the Tatas. 

6. Gandhi Before India (M K Gandhi) by Ramachandra Guha

In this book, Guha recalls lesser known tales from Gandhi’s life, explaining how the young barrister became the world’s ‘Mahatma’. 

The book discusses his early life until his return from South Africa, as well as his personal friendships and belongingness to different religions.

The author is an Indian historian, environmentalist, economist, writer and public intellectual.

7. Waiting for a Visa – BR Ambedkar

This book is the autobiography of Dr B R Ambedkar, the father of Indian Constitution. 

Written in his own writing, it details Dr Ambedkar’s experiences with untouchability and how he was “waiting for a visa” to escape from a land of such painful realities

8. Wings of Fire – An Autobiography by APJ Abdul Kalam and Arun Tiwari

The visionary scientist and former president of India had a humble beginning. 

He started his journey as a newspaper boy. The book contains personal moments and life experiences of this great scientist, and how “he was of the firm belief that each one of us was born with the strength and potential to make a tangible change in the world”. The book recollects anecdotes from his childhood and his discoveries, as well as the stories behind them. It also details Dr Kalam’s dearest relationships and his love for children.

Arun Tiwari, who co-authored the book, is an Indian missile scientist, author and professor. 

9. Straight from the Heart: An Autobiography – Kapil Dev

This autobiography recorded as an interview with Jyoti Sabharwal spans the legendary cricketer’s journey from his initial days in the sport to the retirement. 

It also touches upon unknown stories, like how he was offered Rs 25 lakh to fix a match, income tax raids, friendships on and off the ground, and much more. 

10. The Race of My Life by Milkha Singh

The book narrates how the Partition destroyed Milkha’s childhood, leaving eight of his siblings, as well as his parents, dead. 

It narrates how running formed a major theme in life — from his earlier days as a juvenile delinquent running from the police, to his days as the best athlete as an Army recruit, and finally, to winning India’s first ever gold in athletics during the Commonwealth Games. 

Edited by Divya Sethu

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• Books & Authors

10 Best Indian Autobiographies: Journeys that Illuminate a Nation

India, a vibrant tapestry woven with diverse cultures, languages, and experiences, offers a wealth of autobiographies that capture the essence of the nation and its people. these personal narratives delve into individual journeys, reflecting broader historical, social, and political landscapes. here, we explore 10 exceptional indian autobiographies, each offering a unique window into the human spirit and the complexities of life in this vast land..

• We sought to include autobiographies that explore a variety of themes relevant to the Indian experience,  such as independence struggles,  social justice movements,  cultural shifts,  artistic journeys,  personal challenges,  and individual triumphs.
• This variety ensures the list appeals to readers with diverse interests and offers a broader understanding of India's multifaceted social fabric.
• We aimed to present autobiographies spanning different historical periods,  from pre-independence struggles to contemporary voices.  This allows readers to gain insights into evolving socio-political landscapes and individual experiences across generations.
• The list includes narratives from the Gandhian era,  post-independence challenges,  and reflections on modern India,  offering a dynamic historical perspective.
• While focusing on traditional autobiographical narratives,  we also included memoirs and self-portraits to showcase different literary styles and approaches to personal storytelling.
• This broader selection reflects the evolving field of autobiographical writing and offers readers diverse reading experiences.
• We prioritized autobiographies that have had a significant impact on Indian society,  literature,  or individual readers.  This ensures the list features narratives that resonated with audiences and contributed to broader conversations.
• Recognition through awards,  critical acclaim,  or enduring popularity were factors considered during selection.
• Ultimately,  we sought to showcase captivating personal journeys that offer introspection,  inspiration,  and unique perspectives on life in India.  This ensures the list features engaging narratives that connect with readers on a deeper level.

Categorization of the 10 Best Indian Autobiographies:

• The Story of My Experiments with Truth  by Mahatma Gandhi:  Chronicles his journey as a leader and the philosophy of non-violent resistance.
• India After Gandhi  by Ramachandra Guha:  Offers a firsthand account of post-independence political landscape and leadership figures.
• Wings of Fire  by A. P. J.  Abdul Kalam:  Narrates the journey of a scientist and President,  highlighting leadership values and vision.
• Ente Katha (My Story)  by Kamala Surayya:  Addresses sensitive topics like gender and caste discrimination,  challenging societal norms.
• I Too Had a Dream  by Verghese Kurien:  Shares the vision and passion of transforming the dairy industry for social development.
• Playing It My Way  by Sachin Tendulkar:  Narrates the journey of a cricket legend,  offering insights into the world of professional sports.
• The Autobiography of an Unknown Indian  by Nirad C.  Chaudhuri:  Offers a poignant commentary on cultural shifts and navigating tradition and modernity.
• Truth, Love & a Little Malice  by Khushwant Singh:  Witty and candid narrative reflecting a personal journey and observations on society.
• An Unsuitable Boy  by Karan Johar:  Explores navigating sexuality and personal struggles within the film industry.

Deeper Dives into the 10 Best Indian Autobiographies:

Impact and recognition of the 10 indian autobiographies:.

• Impact:  Shaped the independence movement,  inspired non-violent resistance globally,  remains a foundational text for understanding Gandhian philosophy.
• Recognition:  No awards,  but international acclaim and translation into multiple languages.
• Impact:  Provided firsthand accounts of post-independence challenges,  sparked discussions on identity and democracy,  influenced historical research.
• Recognition:  Pulitzer Prize for General Nonfiction (1992),  Sahitya Akademi Award (1997).
• Impact:  Motivated millions through Kalam's inspirational message,  ignited youth's interest in science and technology,  promoted national pride.
• Recognition:  Bharat Ratna (2008),  Padma Vibhushan (1998),  numerous honorary doctorates.
• Impact:  Offered critical commentary on colonialism and cultural shifts,  challenged societal norms,  influenced discussions on identity and belonging.
• Recognition:  Sahitya Akademi Award (1977),  Sahitya Akademi Fellowship (2001).
• Impact:  Broke taboos by discussing gender and sexuality,  empowered women by sharing her struggles,  sparked conversations on social reform.
• Recognition:  Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award (1974),  Kendra Sahitya Akademi Award (1984).
• Impact:  Entertained readers with witty observations,  offered valuable social commentary,  challenged stereotypes through personal reflections.
• Recognition:  Padma Bhushan (2007),  numerous literary awards for other works.
• Impact:  Provoked national outrage on gender violence,  ignited debates on societal attitudes,  led to policy changes and awareness campaigns.
• Recognition:  International Film Festival Rotterdam (2015) nominee,  sparked global discussions.
• Impact:  Motivated young athletes with Tendulkar's dedication,  offered insights into professional sports,  celebrated India's cricketing achievements.
• Recognition:  Bharat Ratna (2014),  Padma Shri (1999),  Arjuna Award (1994).
• Impact:  Showcased the power of social entrepreneurship,  highlighted Amul's role in rural development,  inspired young leaders.
• Recognition:  Padma Bhushan (2003),  Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership (1963).
• Impact:  Offered insights into Bollywood's inner workings,  sparked discussions on sexuality and self-discovery,  provided a relatable narrative for young professionals.
• Recognition:  Filmfare Award for Best Autobiography (2017),  commercial success and reader engagement.

Beyond the 10: Exploring More Notable Indian Autobiographies

• Entrepreneurship:  "Gifting:  An Indian Adventure" by Anita Roddick (founder of The Body Shop),  "Built to Last:  Achieving a Sustainable Advantage" by Adi Godrej (industrialist),  "Start with Why:  How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action" by Simon Sinek (entrepreneur with Indian roots)
• Arts and Culture:  "My Life and Times" by Satyajit Ray (filmmaker),  "Beyond the Horizon:  My Memoirs" by Lata Mangeshkar (singer),  "Sacred Games:  A Life in Theater" by Naseeruddin Shah (actor)
• Sports:  "Dreams from My Village:  The Autobiography of Mithali Raj" (cricketer),  "Akashvani:  The Autobiography of Akash Chopra" (cricketer),  "Olympus:  My Autobiography" by Milkha Singh (athlete)
• Spiritual Journeys:  "Autobiography of a Yogi" by Paramahansa Yogananda,  "The Autobiography of the Mother" by Mirra Alfassa (spiritual leader),  "The Gospel of Ramakrishna" (recorded by M. ),  M.  (disciple of Ramakrishna)
• Memoirs:  "One Life Many Lives" by Manek Gandhi (Gandhi's granddaughter),  "India in Slow Motion" by Amit Chaudhuri (writer),  "The Kaifi Azmi Poetry Collection:  Including Ghazals,  Nazms and Poems" by Kaifi Azmi (poet)
• Diaries:  "The Diary of a Nation:  India After Independence" by Ramchandra Guha,  "My Days:  The Memoirs of R. K.  Narayan" (writer),  "The Last Mughal:  The Fall of a Dynasty,  Delhi 1857" by William Dalrymple (historian)
• Letters:  "Letters of a Lost Generation" by Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi,  "The Collected Letters of Muhammad Ali Jinnah" (founder of Pakistan),  "Letters of Swami Vivekananda" (spiritual leader)
• Pre-Independence:  "My Reminiscences" by Annie Besant (theosophist and activist),  "Letters to My Children" by Jawaharlal Nehru,  "India's Struggle for Freedom" by Maulana Azad (independence leader)
• Post-Independence:  "My Life" by Homi Bhabha (scientist),  "India is My Country" by Indira Gandhi,  "India Unbound:  From Aching Hunger to Economic Power" by Gurcharan Das (economist)
• Contemporary India:  "Kartoos:  A Young Woman's Journey through the Indian Underworld" by Smita Thackeray (writer and politician),  "Leila:  A Novel" by Thrity Umrigar (writer),  "I Too Have a Dream" by Malala Yousafzai (education activist)
• Online Bookstores:  Amazon,  Flipkart,  BookMyShow,  Goodreads (marketplace)
• Literary Websites:  Scroll. in,  The Caravan,  The Hindu,  India Today
• Libraries:  Local public libraries,  online library platforms like Libby or OverDrive,  university libraries
• Independent Bookstores:  Many cities have independent bookstores that specialize in Indian literature or have curated collections of autobiographies.

Deepen Your Exploration: Links and Community Engagement

• Review:   https://www.theguardian.com/world/mahatma-gandhi
• Interview with author (grandson):   https://www.nytimes.com/2023/05/24/movies/halle-bailey-little-mermaid.html
• Review:   https://www.amazon.com/India-After-Gandhi-History-Democracy/dp/0060958588
• Interview with author:   https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=zrprO3TUf4s
• Review:   https://booksloveme.com/wings-of-fire-book-review/
• Interview with author:   https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=t5b20oLaIaw
• Review:   https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/96255
• Documentary on author:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GywTOpEhjUA
• Review:   https://potpourri2015.wordpress.com/2022/11/08/book-review-chandrakanta-a-hindi-fantasy-classic-by-devaki-nandan-khatri-translated-by-rohini-chaudhury/
• Interview with author (translated):   https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=6l5oJ-sxmOo
• Review:   https://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/105235-truth-love-and-a-little-malice
• Interview with author:   https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/chandigarh-khushwant-singh-walk-against-drugs-9059494/
• Review:   https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2015/mar/05/indias-daughter-review-this-film-does-what-the-politicians-should-be-doing
• Interview with filmmaker:   https://www.nytimes.com/issue/magazine/2023/08/25/the-82723-issue
• Review:   https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/review-playing-it-my-way-798221
• Interview with author:   https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=v6Rz4pgR9UQ
• Review:   https://bwpeople.businessworld.in/article/Book-Review-I-Too-Had-A-Dream/11-10-2019-177364/
• Interview with author:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0PGkL0T1-c
• Review:   https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/14219395.Garrard_Conley
• Interview with author:   https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/celebrities/story/karan-johar-talks-about-trolling-and-how-it-affected-his-mother-he-had-to-be-resilient-2418406-2023-08-09
• Which autobiographies would you add to this list,  and why?
• What other themes,  genres,  or historical periods pique your interest?
• Have you read any of the books mentioned here?  Share your thoughts and experiences!
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• Editors Recommend

Top 30 Biographies, Autobiographies, and Memoirs | HarperCollins Publishers India

There’s something irresistible about getting to know your favourite personalities a little better that make biographies, autobiographies, and memoirs so appealing. After all, these books offer a window to world that you would otherwise have little to no access to! Check out our selection of the most popular books in this genre.

ISRO by Aravamudan & Gita Aravamudan

ISRO pioneer R. Aravamudan narrates the gripping story of the people who built India’s space research programme and how they did it – from the rocket engineers who laid the foundation to the savvy young engineers who keep Indian spaceships flying today. This is a made-in-India story like no other.

Auroville by Anuradha Majumdar

Auroville was born to realize human unity through change of consciousness – a concept that still holds value in today’s world. Told by someone who has lived the adventure for thirty-six years, this book explores how far the city has grown to resonate with its founding vision. Anu Majumdar examines the life of Auroville both as a resident and as an observer.

Revolution by Emmanuel Macron

This is a remarkable book that seeks to lay the foundations for a new society — a compelling testimony and statement of values by an important global political leader who has become the flag-bearer for a new kind of politics — evocative in its scope, ambition and vision of Barack Obama’s The Audacity of Hope .

Bhupen Hazarika by Kalpana Lajmi

We all know Bhupen Hazarika as a singer-composer, poet and lyricist non-pariel. What about the man behind the legend? Told through the lens of Kalpana Lajmi, Bhupen Hazarika: As I knew Him is a free-flowing memoir, moving back and forth across time, defying description, much like the love story it narrates.

Devil’s Advocate by Karan Thapar

Riveting and fast-paced, Devil’s Advocate is as no-holds-barred as any of Karan Thapar’s interviews.

My Story by Kamala Das

When it was first published in 1973, Kamala Das’s sensational autobiography shocked readers with its total disregard for convention and its fearless articulation of subjects still considered tabloo. Narrating the author’s intensely personal experiences in her passage to womanhood and shedding light on the hypocrisies that informed traditional society, My Story was far ahead of its time and is today considered a masterpiece.

Close to the Bone by Lisa Ray

Funny, charming, and gut-wrenchingly honest all at once, Close to the Bone is Lisa Ray’s brave and inspiring story of a life lived on her terms.

Ocean to Ocean by Susmit Sen & Sehba Imam

Ocean to Ocean tells the story of Susmit Sen in the maestro’s own words. Warm, intimate and honest, it documents the life and times of a rare musician and composer, a man who dared to flow against the tide and came up trumps.

At the Helm by Krishnamurthy

At the Helm is the story of how a boy from the small village of Karuveli in Tamil Nadu starts out as a technician at airfields during the Second World War but goes on to script the biggest success stories of young India’s fledgling public sector over the next five decades.

My Father Baliah by B. Satyanarayana

The extraordinary story of a Dalit family in southern India. A narrative that derives its strength from the simplicity with which it is told, My Father Baliah is a story of great hardship and greater resilience.

Jail Diary by Sher Singh Rana

Jail Diary is Rana’s story in his own words. It begins on the day of his escape from Tihar and goes back and forth in time describing his childhood in small-town India, the beginning of his political career during college days, his induction into Eklavya Sena through which he was introduced to Phoolan, his days as a liquor vendor in Haridwar, and his nerve-wracking adventures as someone who broke one of the highest security prisons in Asia to pursue what, to his mind, was an act of honour.

Prison and Chocolate Cake by Nayantara Sahgal

A dramatic portrait of the spirit of sacrifice that carried India through the years of the struggle for independence, this evocative memoir of an unusual childhood ends with the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi in 1948.

Anusual by Anu Aggarwal

Anusual is the story of Anu Aggarwal, the dusky Delhi girl who went to Bombay and became an international model, and then a star with her very first Bollywood movie, Aashiqui, only to chuck it all up and join a yogashram.

No One Else by Siddharth Dube

 No One Else is beautiful, singular and unforgettable, a tour de force that celebrates love and sensuality, dignity and freedom, and holds to account those who would deny anyone these priceless human joys.

Standing My Ground by Matthew Hayden

Matthew Hayden was one of the most commanding batsmen the game has ever seen – and one of its great enigmas. A devout Catholic, and a ruthless on-field sledger. A brutal enforcer, and a soft-hearted family man. The Australian record-holder for highest score in Tests and One Day Internationals, who was at times troubled by self-doubt and doubters.  In Standing My Ground, Hayden confronts these contradictions head-on. Here is the superstar batsman, the surfer, fisherman and chef in a book as bold and powerful as the man himself.

Controversially Yours by Anshu Dogra

Shoaib Akhtar has been one of the most colourful characters in the history of cricket. He is the fastest bowler in the world, who set an official world record by achieving the fastest delivery when he clocked in at 161.3 km/ph (100.2 mph) twice in the same match. Having taken more than 400 wickets in international cricket, he is a phenomenal cricketer too. Tagged as being undisciplined, Akhtar’s career has been plagued by injuries, controversies and accusations of poor attitude. Here he tells his side of the story.

Manik Da by Nemai Ghosh

Satyajit Ray, known to his intimates as Manik-da, remains India’s most respected name in international film circles. This nuanced and lucid translation from the Bengali original, which includes a perceptive Foreword by Sharmila Tagore, presents to the English reader Ghosh’s thoughts on Ray with over fifty exquisite, never-before-seen photographs.

Against the Wind by Rajni Kumar

Observant and vivacious, this is a memoir that is a testament as much to Rajni Kumar’s lifelong work in education as to the spirit of romance and daring with which she set foot in a new country all those decades ago.

The Commonwealth of Cricket by Ramachandra Guha

The Commonwealth of Cricket is a first-person account of this astonishing transformation. The book traces the entire arc of cricket in India, across all levels at which the game is played: school, college, club, state, country. It presents vivid portraits of local heroes, provincial icons, and international stars.

Advice and Dissent by V. Reddy

Leavened with his irrepressible sense of humour, Advice and Dissent is a warm, engaging account of a life that moves easily from a career in the districts as a young IAS officer to the higher echelons of policy making, in a trajectory that follows change in the country itself.

Corporate Yogi by Arvind Lal

This book presents Dr Arvind Lal’s journey as a spiritual seeker and an accidental entrepreneur. How did a saint from a remote Himalayan village called Hairakhan transform Arvind’s life? How did Lal Pathlabs become a household brand in India? How does spiritualism shape his thoughts as an entrepreneur? Can work and spirituality gel in a ‘karma yoga’ form as mentioned in ancient Hindu scriptures? Woven around Arvind’s life, this book answers these and many other questions about work, life and spirituality.

Darling Ji by Kishwar Desai

Travelling as it does from the nineteenth century to the present, this book tells the larger story of the evolution of Hindi cinema, and of a society and a nation in the throes of change.

A Life Misspent by Suryakant Tripathi Nirala &  Satti Khanna

Set in pre-Independence India, A Life Misspent is as much the account of an unlikely friendship as it is a coming-of-age story. A memoir on the making of one of the greatest poets of all time.

The Man Who Bombed Karachi by Admiral S.M. Nanda

The Man Who Bombed Karachi is the inspiring story of how a childhood fascination for the sea led an outstanding officer to rise to the pinnacle of India’s armed forces. It gives a glimpse into life in the Royal Indian Navy, with a dramatic rebellion by Indian sailors against their British superiors, and traces its evolution into an organization that is today a force to reckon with globally. Most of all, it is an insider’s authentic account of the inventive naval strategies that led to one of India’s biggest victories in war to date.

Honour Bound by Sarosh Zaiwalla

In Honour Bound , Sarosh Zaiwalla looks back on his career – from his passage to England at a time when diversity had barely begun to take root in its legal circles, to now leading a ground-breaking law firm.

What We Carry by Maya Shanbhag Lang

Absorbing, moving, and raw, What We Carry is a memoir about mothers and daughters, lies and truths, receiving and giving care, and how we cannot grow up until we fully understand the people who raised us.

At Large in the World in Harish Chandola

At Large in the World tells the stories behind the headlines and makes startling disclosures as it paints a compelling and honest portrait of India in eventful times over the last half-century.

Family Fables and Hidden Heresies by Vrinda Nabar

Drawing on history, myth and gender,Vrinda Nabar unravels the many fault lines women have to negotiate, often at great cost, in their search for a middle ground between individuality and conformity.

More Maicious Gossip Pb by Khushwant Singh

This selection of Khushwant Singh’s prose is like the man himself: blunt, perceptive, incorrigibly provocative, often amusing but always bubbling with life. The book includes candid portrayals of public personalities such as Zail Singh, Rajiv Gandhi, Nani Palkhivala, Rajni Patel and Nargis Dutt. There are also vivid portrayals of public personalities such as Zail Singh, Rajiv Gandhi, Nani Palkhivala, Rajni Patel and Nargis Dutt. There are also vivid portraits of places such as Delhi, Amritsar, Goa, Lucknow, Bhopal and Hyderabad. Then there are his musings on such issues as communalism, terrorism and bride burning, still as vivid today as when the pieces were first written.

The Afternoon Girl by Amrinder Bajaj

The Afternoon Girl celebrates a friendship that swings between love and loathing, adoration and indifference, support and abandonment, but stood the test of time and circumstances. With disarming honesty, the book builds and busts a few myths, and offers unexpected insights into Khushwant Singh: good- and sometimes ill-humored mentor, garrulous yet grumpy friend, and saintly but outspoken old man.

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10 Must-Read Biographies On Inspirational People From India

Biographies always end up becoming a source of inspiration and many authors have compiled accounts on impactful Indians whose lives are worth sharing. We’ve shortlisted the 10 best biographies you should read.

Outlaw: india’s bandit queen and me by roy moxham.

Roy Moxham’s biography of spine-chilling events that occurred in Phoolan Mallah’s life was a result of his journey and friendship with her in the later years of her life. Known as ‘bandit queen’ in India, Phoolan hailed from a poor rural family in Uttar Pradesh. She was gang-raped and abused many times before she became a gang leader and then a Member of the Parliament in India. Roy’s biography is a gripping story of the incredible woman who was gunned down in 2001.

Akhada: The Authorized Biography of Mahavir Singh Phogat by Saurabh Duggal

Saurabh Duggal tells the story of Mahavir Singh Phogat in his biography. The amateur wrestler rebelled against the appalling practice of female foeticide in Harayana and trained his own daughters in the sport. His eldest daughter, Geeta Phogat, became the first ever freestyle wrestler to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in 2010 and the first female wrestler from India to qualify for the Olympics.

Sir C V Raman by A. Krishna Bhatt

This biography by A. Krishna Bhatt gives an intimate account of Nobel Prize winner C. V. Raman’s life . Bhatt’s research reveals how Raman was a jovial person, always curious and a great teacher. The book makes C. V. Raman more human, going beyond the image of a worshipped physicist. Raman’s humble beginnings and great achievements are a source of inspiration.

The Man Who Knew Infinity: A Life of The Genius Ramanujan by Robert Kanigel

Robert Kanigel paints a picture of Srinivasa Ramanujan’s life since childhood in Tamil Nadu, India. His family couldn’t send him to school after a point but that didn’t stop Ramanujan from studying pure mathematics and working under the British mathematician G. H. Hardy. In his biography , Robert delves into Ramanujan’s struggle to be taken seriously and eventually being recognised for his contributions in mathematics.

Beyond the Last Blue Mountain by R. M. Lala

Beyond The Last Blue Mountain is one of the best biographies written about an Indian. The book is divided into four parts, taking the readers through the details of Jehangir Ratanji Dadabhoy Tata’s childhood and milestones. J.R.D Tata’s interest in aviation that led to the beginning of the aviation industry in India and his contributions as an industrialist, are discussed comprehensively. The last part of the book talks about his friendships, personal life and how he kept it away from the public eye.

Spy Princess: The Life of Noor Inayat Khan by Shrabani Basu

Shrabani Basu’s detailed chronicle of Noor Inayat Khan makes the biography a riveting read. Noor was an Indian-origin Briton from an affluent family. As a shy, sensitive girl, she chose the most unlikely work for herself, in the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force during the Second World War. She lived a life of danger and adventure before being killed in a concentration camp in Dachau. Basu’s book is heartwarming and inspirational.

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Husain: Portrait of an Artist by Ila Pal

The late Maqbool Fida Husain, better known as M.F. Husain , was a peculiar but charming figure of the 20th-century. No one knows much about the man, except that he was an internationally acclaimed modern painter who always walked barefoot with a paintbrush in his hand. The image almost became his brand statement. Ila Pal goes deep into M.F. Husain’s life and reveals his wit and thought process. Ila met the painter in 1961 and made him her case study for 50 years and the biography is a beautiful culmination of that association.

Gandhi Before India by Ramachandra Guha

Gandhi Before India is a deviation from what is usually written about M.K. Gandhi who is revered as ‘father of the nation’ for his mammoth contributions to India’s independence movement. Ramachandra Guha’s detailed research spans across four continents. He writes about Gandhi’s formative years in South Africa and personal details of his life as a father and husband. Ramachandra’s beautifully written biography paints Gandhi in a different light and tells us why M. K. Gandhi was an inspirational figure.

Helen: The Life and Times of an H-Bomb by Jerry Pinto

Jerry Pinto is probably one of the best Indian authors of the 21st-century and his biography on Helen tells everything we ever wanted to know about the French-Burmese actress. An icon in Bollywood , Helen came to the country as a refugee from Burma. To support her widowed mother and two brothers she worked as a chorus dancer in Hindi films. At her career’s peak she was called the ‘H-Bomb’.

Lilavati’s Daughters by Indian Academy of Sciences

The collection of biographical essays on women scientists of the 19th and 20th-century is nothing but inspirational. The book tells us about botanist E. K. Janaki Ammal, chemist Asmita Chatterjee, physician Anandibai Joshi, anthropologist Iravati Karve, biochemist Kamala Sohonie, medical researcher Kamal Ranadive and a few others who pioneered women’s education in India at a time when women were hardly allowed to finish high school.

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Women’s autobiographies are tools of self-representation of their personal histories. Women from the margins have used them to represent their realities and their feminist concerns. Their autobiographies have defied the set norms of language and aesthetics and have instead moulded them to speak of lives that have broken out of the ordinary.  Almost all the autobiographies on this list have been translated to English from their original languages, thereby highlighting the importance of translations in bringing marginalised voices in literature to readers.

As the world celebrates Women’s History Month throughout March, it is time we took a closer look at some of the personal histories that highlight the contribution of women in shaping history, culture and society.

Rhea has completed her Masters in English at SNDT Women’s University. Her key research interests are post-colonial studies, mainly focussing on women’s narratives and their experience of citizenship.  Her other interests are Dalit literature in translation. She also sings in a choir. 

Rhea is the social media manager at The Curious Reader. Read her articles here .

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22 Famous Indian Authors (And Their Best Books)

Once upon a time, I spent a few months living in the north of India. This constituted one of the greatest adventures of my life. And on this journey, I picked up a few books that captured my attention.

I realized India has a rich literary tradition  and is home to some of the best and most imaginative authors out there. More  people should read  these books. The sun goes down in a different way in India. And you can feel the same warm, exotic glow by sitting back and opening a book through which monsoons and smells of spices will flow. Of course, I haven’t read all the authors from this list (I intend to). But this is to serve as a reference for anyone interested in  Indian literature  who wants to go deeper and learn about its most distinguished literati, both classic and contemporary.

22 Famous Indian Authors And Their Notable Works:

1. rabindranath tagore.

This was the first Indian author I’ve ever read. I remember sitting on a bus going to my office in Chandigarh and reading Gitanjali and Stray Birds in an old paperback version. These poems changed my life and opened me up to something I’ve never experienced before. Tagore was born in 1861 and during his life, he wrote hundreds of poems, books, and articles. His father knew Persian and could recite the poetry of Hafiz by heart. You can see that many of these Sufi mysteries are also detectable in the great author’s work. It is always related to The Power of Love and the closeness to God. Later in life, Tagore visited the tombs of Saadi and Hafiz in Shiraz and admired these poets greatly. He was also deeply influenced by Baul mysticism, Sahaja Buddhism, Vedanta Philosophy, and the Upanishads. He was knighted by the British Empire in 1915, but within a couple of years, he resigned the title as a protest against British policies in India (especially the massacre in Amritsar in 1919, which grounds I walked during my stay in Punjab). Tagore was the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature (1913).

Notable works:

• Heart of God
• Stray Birds

Quote from the author:

“The small wisdom is like water in a glass: clear, transparent, pure. The great wisdom is like the water in the sea: dark, mysterious, impenetrable.”

2. Jiddu Krishnamurti

Krishnamurti was a great Indian writer and philosopher  who later in life moved  to the USA. You can still find many recordings of his talks and lectures on YouTube (highly recommended). His interests were wide-ranging and included psychological revolution, the nature of the mind, meditation, societal change, and human relationships. I’ve learned a lot about meditation and the nature of consciousness from him. This includes the principle of non-grasping and non-judgment which serve me well to this day. He was one of the first people to bring Eastern thought to the West. His thesis was that a revolution in society can only be brought about at the level of an individual. By changing ourselves for the better we can change society as a whole. He pledged no allegiance to a nationality, caste, or religion and spent the later years of his life traveling around the world and giving lectures to large and small groups.

• Freedom From The Known
• Awakening of Intelligence

“You must understand the whole of life, not just one little part of it. That is why you must read, that is why you must look at the skies, that is why you must sing, and dance, and  write poems , and suffer, and understand, for all that is life.”

3. Chetan Bhagat

Chetan Bhagat is a modern author, columnist, screenwriter, and television personality, especially known for his  books geared toward young readers from the Indian middle class. He’s  one of the most popular writers  in the country and his books sold over 7 million copies all over the world (he writes primarily in English). The New York Times called him “the biggest-selling English language novelist in India’s history”. Interestingly, instead of literature, he studied mechanical engineering and business management. At some point, he even applied to work in investment banking for Goldman Sachs. He wrote his first books while still working for the company but later quit his full-time job and focused on writing . Many of his books  served as an inspiration for Bollywood films  and Time magazine named him one of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2010. However, in 2017 he was accused of plagiarism (regarding two of his books) and is now involved in a legal trial.

• 2 States: The Story of My Marriage
• Half Girlfriend

“Pretty girls behave best when you ignore them. Of course, they have to know you are ignoring them, for otherwise, they may not even know you exist.”

4. Aravind Adiga

Adiga, born in 1974 in Chennai (Madras) is a modern Indian writer whose book “The White Tiger” won the 2008 Man Booker Prize. After growing up in Mangalore, he emigrated to Sydney, Australia with his family. Later on, he studied English literature at Columbia University in New York under the famous English historian, Simon Schama. After his studies, he began his career as a journalist, traveling the world and writing for publications such as Financial Times and TIME. He finally went freelance and then wrote his first big book The White Tiger, which portrays Balram, a lead character coming from crushing rural poverty but witnessing the rise of India as a modern global economy. The book sold over 200,000 copies of the hardcover edition. Now the author is back in India, living in Mumbai, where he  writes and releases a new book  every other year.

• Last Man in Tower
• The White Tiger

“Go to Old Delhi, and look at the way they keep chickens there in the market. Hundreds of pale hens and brightly colored roosters stuffed tightly into wire-mesh cages. They see the organs of their brothers lying around them. They know they are next, yet they cannot rebel. They do not try to get out of the coop. The very same thing is done with humans in this country.”

5. Shashi Tharoor

Tharoor is not only famous for his writings. He’s one of the most influential Indians by any measure because of his involvement in politics and media. He’s been  writing since 1981 and authored  18 best-selling works of fiction and non-fiction. All of them are centered around the history, culture, film, and politics of his native country. Moreover, he wrote hundreds of columns for prestigious publications such as the New York Times, the Washington Post, and The Times of India. He’s a controversial figure in India known for his polarizing stances on many social and political issues. It’s almost too much to digest (he even got charged with abetment to the suicide of his wife in 2018).

• An Era of Darkness: The British Empire in India
• The Great Indian Novel

“India is not, as people keep calling it, an underdeveloped country, but rather, in the context of its history and cultural heritage, a highly developed one in an advanced state of decay.”

6. Amrita Pritam

Pritam, born in 1919 was a novelist, essayist, and poet who, unlike many of the authors on this list wrote in Punjabi and Hindi. She is known as the most prominent Punjabi poet who is loved both by Indians and Pakistanis. She lived a long life during which she produced over 100 books of poetry , fiction, and biographies, as well as a collection of beautiful Punjabi folk songs. Her works have been translated into many Indian and foreign languages. Her book Pinjar (The Skeleton) was groundbreaking and ultimately got adapted into an award-winning movie in 2003. She has been often compared to Mohan Singh and Shiv Kumar Batlavi and was the most prominent voice for the liberation of women in Punjabi literature.

• Raseedi Ticket

“Warish Shah I call out to you, Rise from your grave, speak out and turn, Another page of the Book of Love”

7. Kamala Markandaya

Another widely known female author from India, Kamala Markandaya, was born in Mysore in 1924. She was an acclaimed novelist and journalist known for writing about the conflict between different strata of Indian society (rural vs. urban), as well as the adoption of Western values in her country. Her book “Nectar in a Sieve” is a classic of Indian literature and has been in print continuously since 1955. After the Declaration of Independence, she moved to Britain but she always remained loyal to her native country and labeled herself an expatriate.

• Nectar in a Sieve
• A Handful of Rice

“For where shall a man turn who has no money? Where can he go? Wide, wide world, but as narrow as the coins in your hand. Like a tethered goat, so far and no farther. Only money can make the rope stretch, only money.”

8. Khushwant Singh

This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Khushwant Singh, a Punjabi author, lawyer, diplomat, journalist, and politician. He lived through the partition of India in 1947 and this inspired him to write “Train to Pakistan”, which became his most famous novel (also made into a film in 1998). He fought fiercely for the independence of India from the British Empire and in the ’50s worked for All India Radio and UNESCO. Unlike many Indian authors, he abhorred spirituality and treated life with wit, humor, sarcasm, and an unending love for poetry.

• Train to Pakistan
• Delhi: A Novel

“Not forever does the bulbul sing In balmy shades of bowers, Not forever lasts the spring Nor ever blossom the flowers. Not forever reigneth joy, Sets the sun on days of bliss, Friendships not forever last, They know not life, who know not this.”

9. R.K. Narayan

Rasipuram Krishnaswami Iyer Narayanaswami is mostly known for his fiction works related to the South Indian town of Malgudi. He was a leading English language author in India along with Mulk Raj Anand and Raja Rao. It might come as a surprise, but he was a close friend of Graham Greene, who helped him to get publishers for his first books . The  fictional town Malgudi was first introduced in his book  “Swami and Friends”. The made-up town had a pristine historical record dating back to the times of Ramayana and Buddha. He loved to show the humor of everyday life and has been often compared to William Faulkner. He wrote for over sixty years and lived to be 94.

• The Guide: A Novel
• Malgudi Days

“Friendship was another illusion like love, though it did not reach the same mad heights. People pretended that they were friends when the fact was they were brought together by the force of circumstances.”

10. Salman Rushdie

This author should not require an introduction. Rushdie first came on the map with his novel “Midnight’s Children” (1981) for which he won the Booker Prize. His works are a great combination of magical realism and historical fiction and are often set on the Indian subcontinent. His novel “The Satanic Verses”, put him in mortal danger from assassins who haunted him for many years on orders from Ayatollah Khomeini, who issued a fatwa, condemning the author to death, for his “blasphemous” novel which ostensibly offended the Prophet. He wrote many novels afterward and has been ranked 13th on the list of the best British writers since 1945.

• The Satanic Verses
• Midnight’s Children

“I am the total of everything that went before me, of all I have been seen done, of everything done to me. I am everyone everything whose being in the world affected was affected by mine. I am anything that happens after I’m gone which would not have happened if I had not come.”

11. Arundhati Roy

Roy is mostly known for her novel the “God of Small Things” for which she received a Man Booker Prize for fiction in 1997. This book became a huge bestseller and sold more copies than any other non-expatriate Indian novel. Her novel “The Ministry of Utmost Happiness” also won many awards and found its way to the Man Booker Prize 2017 long list. She’s also a political activist and a fighter for environmental causes. She’s a polarizing figure in India, known for her scathing comments about Narendra Modi, the Indian prime minister. Roy was featured in Time’s 100 Most Influential People in the World list in 2014.

• The God of Small Things
• The Ministry of Utmost Happiness

“To love. To be loved. Never forget your insignificance. To never get used to the unspeakable violence and the vulgar disparity of life around you. To seek joy in the saddest places. To pursue beauty in its lair. Never simplify what is complicated or complicate what is simple. To respect strength, never power. Above all, to watch. To try and understand. To never look away. And never, never to forget.”

12. Vikram Seth

Born in 1952 in Calcutta, Seth is a part novelist, and part travel writer known mostly for his first novel “The Golden Gate” and the epic novel “A Suitable Boy”. The author was raised in London and graduated from Oxford, and Stanford where he studied economics. It took him a long time to get the attention of the public and some of his first volumes did not attract critical attention. The first book that conquered the hearts of readers was a humorous travelogue “From Heaven Lake.” His books are most often written in verse but his book of prose “A Suitable Boy”, which has 1349 pages, is often compared to the works of Leo Tolstoy and Charles Dickens.

• A Suitable Boy
• The Golden Gate

“But I too hate long books: the better, the worse. If they’re bad they merely make me pant with the effort of holding them up for a few minutes. But if they’re good, I turn into a social moron for days, refusing to go out of my room, scowling and growling at interruptions, ignoring weddings and funerals, and making enemies out of friends. I still bear the scars of Middlemarch.”

13. Anita Desai

Anita Desai is the author of many widely acclaimed children’s books written in the English language. She was born to a German mother and a Bengali father and grew up speaking German, Hindi, and English. Except for children’s books, she wrote many novels on the theme of women’s oppression in India. Her writing style is poetic and does not shy away from tragedy and high drama. She received many awards, including the Sahitya Akademi Award, and the British Guardian Prize for her work. In 1993, her novel “In Custody” was made into a film that won the 1994 President of India Gold Medal for Best Picture.

• Clear Light of Day
• Fasting, Feasting

“Isn’t it strange how life won’t flow, like a river, but moves in jumps, as if it were held back by locks that are opened now and then to let it jump forwards in a kind of flood?”

14. Jhumpa Lahiri

Although she was born in London, and now has American citizenship, her background is ethnically Indian (her parents come from West Bengal). Her work often explores the Indian immigrant experience in America. Her book “Interpreter of Maladies” won the Pulitzer Prize for fiction and the PEN/Hemingway award. Moreover, her second novel “The Namesake” was made into a popular movie of the same name. In 2011 she moved to Rome and since then she has translated a few Italian books into English. Her forthcoming book is going to be written in Italian as well.

• Interpreter of Maladies
• The Namesake

“You are still young, free.. Do yourself a favor. Before it’s too late, without thinking too much about it first, pack a pillow and a blanket and see as much of the world as you can. You will not regret it. One day it will be too late.”

15. Amitav Ghosh

Ghosh is mostly known for his English works of fiction. He’s also the winner of the prestigious Jnanpith Award for his outstanding contribution to literature. He was born in Calcutta in 1956 but later moved with his family to New York, USA, where he joined The Queen’s College as a distinguished professor of comparative literature. He’s also been a visiting professor in the English department at Harvard University He later returned to India where he began working on his Ibis Trilogy. He wrote eight novels (the most famous one being the “Sea of Poppies”), as well as 6 works of nonfiction including many notable collections of essays. In his works, he often deals with epic themes of history, memory of political struggle, and communal violence which include elements of anthropology as well as art.

• Sea of Poppies
• The Glass Palace: A Novel

“What would it be like if I had something to defend – a home, a country, a family – and I found myself attacked by these ghostly men, these trusting boys? How do you fight an enemy who fights with neither enmity nor anger, but in submission to orders from superiors, without protest and conscience?”

16. Ruskin Bond

Bond is an Indian author of British descent. He’s known for his contributions to the children’s literature genre and he received many literary awards including Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan. Many of his works are inspired by the hill stations at the foothills of the Himalayas. The author spent most of his childhood there. I also visited these places, including Dharamshala, and attest – they are truly breathtaking. His most famous children’s book is called “The Angry River.” He once said: “I had a pretty lonely childhood and it [writing] helps me to understand a child better.” He’s been writing for over 50 years, and he lived through many societal and political changes in India. This is reflected in many of his works.

• The Room on The Roof
• The Blue Umbrella

“How evanescent those loves and friendships seem at this distance in time… We move on and make new attachments. We grow old. But sometimes, we hanker for old friendships, the old loves. Sometimes I wish I was young again. Or that I could travel back in time and pick up the threads. Absent so long, I may have stopped loving you, friends; but I will never stop loving the Day I loved you.”

17. Kiran Desai

Kiran is the daughter of Anita Desai, already mentioned in this list. Her novel “Inheritance of Loss” which took her seven years to complete won the Man Booker Award in 2006. She received many other accolades (including praise from Salman Rushdie) for her works and has been named as one of the 20 most influential Indian women. She was born in Delhi but later on, she moved to India and then to the United States where she studied creative writing  at Bennington College, Hollins University, and Columbia University. Despite publishing just two books, she’s still one of the most  widely-known English language writers from India

• The Inheritance of Loss
• Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard

“Could fulfillment ever be felt as deeply as loss? Romantically she decided that love must surely reside in the gap between desire and fulfillment, in the lack, not the contentment. Love was the ache, the anticipation, the retreat, everything around it but the emotion itself.”

18. Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

Chitra is an author and poet who was born in Kolkata but now holds American citizenship as well. She received many awards and many of her books are currently turned into movies and TV shows. Her works are set both in India and the United States and often depict the life of immigrants. What’s quite distinctive about her work is that she writes in many genres and for many audiences including adults and children. She penned a dozen books of fiction, a couple of books for young adults and children, and many books of poetry.

• The Palace of Illusions: A Novel
• Sister of My Heart: A Novel

“Looking back, I could not point to one special time and say, There! That’s what is amazing. We can change completely and not recognize it. We think terrible events have made us into stone. But love slips in like a chisel – and suddenly it is an ax, breaking us into pieces from the inside.”

19. Nirad C. Chaudhuri

Chaudhuri lived to be 101 years old, and he almost lived in three different centuries. He was born in 1897 still in British India and died in 1999 in Oxford, England. He wrote both in English and Bengali. His books often touch upon the themes of the history and cultural changes in India, especially in the context of the British Empire. His magnum opus “The Autobiography of an Unknown Indian” attracted many admirers over the years, including Winston Churchill. It’s an autobiography of Chaudhuri from his birth to the age of 50. The book brought about much controversy and was a great account of how colonial rule worked.

• The Autobiography of an Unknown Indian
• A Passage to England

“I understood the life around me better, not from love, which everybody acknowledges being a great teacher, but from estrangement, to which nobody has attributed the power of reinforcing insight”.

20. Mahatma Gandhi

This man doesn’t need any introduction. He played a huge role in a political movement that ultimately led to the liberation of India from the British Empire. Most people know him for his political activism and service to his country. But he was also an avid writer who left behind many interesting books that chronicled his fight for independence and his philosophy. His book “The Story of my experiments with Truth” is a collection of 105 essays covering different aspects of his life and the development of his philosophy. Another book called “Hind Swaraj” was written in 1909 but already sketched out a dream of a free India.

Notable Works:

• The Story of My Experiments with Truth
• India of My Dreams

“When I despair, I remember that all through history the way of truth and love have always won. There have been tyrants and murderers, and for a time, they can seem invincible, but in the end, they always fall. Think of it–always.”

21. Dilip Hiro

Hiro’s career spans many years and unlike other authors mentioned in this article, he’s known mostly for his works of non-fiction, on the theme of war and politics. He’s a fierce political commentator who to this day contributes to publications such as The Guardian. His latest book is called “The Cold War in the Islamic World” and it’s about the rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Now he’s based in England where he continues with his analysis of the current political landscape (including the rivalry between India and Pakistan).

• The Longest War
• Inside Central Asia:  A Political and Cultural History of Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkey, and Iran

“When asked about the extent to which the British decision to quit India was influenced by Mahatma Gandhi’s 1942 movement, Attlee’s lips widened in the smile of disdain and he uttered, slowly, “Minimal.”

22. Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay

Chatterji could be as well in the first place on this list as he is the most popular, and the most translated Indian author of all time. He was born in Bengal at the end of the 19th century and remains the most widely known novelist in the Bengali language. His works mostly deal with the day, often tragic life of the villagers of his native land. He received little formal schooling but was endowed with a love of literature from his father. He later improved his writing skills  under the tutelage of Kishorimohan Mukherjee. From then on, he was involved in the fight for independence and established himself as one of India’s most famous writers.

“They’ll have the sweet, intimate memories of a lost paradise, and beside it a sea of sorrow… People looking on from the outside think all is lost… What remains when everything is lost can be held in the palm, like a jewel. It can’t be flaunted in a pageant, so the lookers-on are disappointed and jeer as they return home..”

You can’t overestimate the value that Indian literature played in the  world literary tradition.  I hope that this quick list of the most notable Indian authors will inspire you to grab some of their books. This is going to be a valuable experience, especially if you come from a Western tradition. You will learn so much more about a world you never truly experienced. And this newfound knowledge will bring you to a new plane of understanding, and perhaps, inspire you to explore the literary traditions of other countries. Next up, you may want to check the list of the top Indian book publishing companies .

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10 Must Read Biographies of Inspirational People from India

by Pratiti Nath September 27, 2021

Don’t know where life is going?

1. The Man Who Knew Infinity (Srinivasa Ramanujan) by Robert Kanigel

2. Sir C.V. Raman by Uma Parameswaran

3. Helen: The life and times of H-Bomb by Jerry Pinto

4. Outlaw (Phoolan Devi) by Roy Moxham

5. Spy Princess (Noor Inayat Khan) by Shrabani Basu

6. Dilip Kumar: The Definitive Biography by Bunny Reuban

7. Satyajit Ray: The Inner Eye by Andrew Robinson

8. Beyond the Last Blue Mountain (JRD Tata) by R.M. Lala

9. Husain: Portrait of an Artist by Ila Pal

10. Gandhi Before India (M.K. Gandhi) by Ramachandra Guha

Written by Pratiti Nath

A heritage and travel enthusiast with a penchant for sustainable living and travel, Pratiti writes on key issues governing health, environment, travel and culture. A microbiologist by vocation and a writer/editor by profession Pratiti brings science and innovation in her pursuits of life. When not traveling she can be found addressing key issues on her blog at https://agantukthestrangersdesk.wordpress.com/

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• > 12 Sporting Autobiographies That’ll Inspire You To Chase Your Dreams

Dec 03, 2017 at 05:44 PM

12 Sporting Autobiographies That’ll Inspire You To Chase Your Dreams

Reading a book and following a sport are as different as any two activities can possibly be.

However, there’s one thing in common between them and it’s they’re highly addictive.

If you happen to be someone who likes both, sports autobiographies can be the perfect option for you. They mix the joys of reading a book and the thrill of watching an exciting match, with the added benefit of getting to know more about your favourite athlete.

Here are some of the best sports autobiographies you should lay your hands on, ASAP:

1. Playing It My Way- Sachin Tendulkar

Irrespective of whether you’re a cricket fan or not, Sachin’s autobiography is a must read simply because of the fact that he’s the greatest cricketer and arguably one of the best Indian athletes in history.

In his own words, “No autobiography can claim to document every detail of the author’s life,” but this is as close as we can get to know about his life and what kept him motivated through this glorious journey.

2. The Test of My Life- Yuvraj Singh

Yuvraj Singh’s battle with cancer and eventual triumph is stuff they make movies about.

The way he broke down on the field after India won the World Cup in 2011, still manages to break us into tears. More because of the fact that he was playing despite knowing that he is suffering from throat cancer.

In his autobiography, Yuvraj has documented his ‘journey from cricket to cancer and back’ and talked about the days he spent in Indianapolis alone during his treatment.

3. Touched by God: How We Won the Mexico ’86 World Cup- Diego Maradona

Of all the Football World Cups that have been played to date, FIFA 1986 is probably the most remarkable. Who can forget that controversial quarterfinal against England where Maradona scored both his most celebrated and most controversial goals?!

By hitting Hand of God and Goal of The Century in one match, Maradona registered his name in history, never, ever to be unwritten.

4. Sunny Days- Sunil Gavaskar

Did you know that the Little Master was switched after birth and was brought back by his uncle? Or that he almost broke his mother’s nose as a child?

His autobiography is a collection of many such interesting stories and an account of the beginning of his journey to becoming one of India’s greatest cricketers.

5. Ace Against Odds- Sania Mirza

Former world doubles number one in tennis, Sania Mirza is an inspiration for millions of women athletes who aim to make it big in the field.

In a sport not so famous in the country and dominated hugely by men, Sania made her mark and was ranked number one in India for 9 years straight.

The book is about the highs and lows of her journey and what went on in the life of the star even when everything appeared fine on the outside.

6. Playing To Win- Saina Nehwal

This book is about Saina’s “life, on and off the court”.

The first badminton player from the country to win an Olympics medal and hugely responsible for taking the sport from streets to televisions and beyond, Saina tells it all in her autobiography. This is a must-read for everyone who wishes to know more about her life.

7. The Greatest: My Own Story- Muhammad Ali

“Let them remember you as a winner, never come back beaten.”

Packed with quotes like this, Muhammad Ali’s autobiography will give you motivation, goosebumps and a peek into the life of The Greatest.

8. Why Soccer Matters- Pele

Without an ounce of doubt, Pele is one of the best athletes to have played The Beautiful Game and his autobiography is an interesting description of what all soccer can accomplish.

Read this one for knowing the recent history of the game and new insights into soccer’s role connecting and galvanizing players around the world.

9. Straight from the Heart: An Autobiography- Kapil Dev

Kapil Dev led us to our first World Cup victory and in a career spanning 17 years, contributed with bat and ball with equal excellence.

The book stands true to its name and touches your heart with its simplicity and honesty.

10. Unbreakable- Mary Kom

As if being a woman athlete wasn’t enough, Mary Kom had to also face difficulties of being from a family of landless agricultural labourers and playing a sport which comes with its own share of struggles.

She overcame adversities to become not only one of the most celebrated athletes and an Olympic medallist but also the champion of a sport thought of as that suitable for men.

Read the book for the overwhelming story of this rebel who fought against all odds, and emerged victorious.

11. The Race of My Life- Milkha Singh

His performance on race course fetched him the title of ‘Flying Sikh’ and truly, his entire life has been about running, sometimes from places and sometimes from circumstances.

As a boy who escaped death during partition and later escaped police after stealing, Milkha’s life changed once he joined the army.

He ran for the forces and then for the country, missing on an Olympic medal in 1960 as he stood fourth.

Milkha Singh’s life seems straight out of a movie and his autobiography is not one to be missed.

12. Golden Girl- The Autobiography of P.T. Usha

Another sprinter and another heartbreaking finish.

PT Usha missed a bronze medal in Olympics 1984 by 100th of a second but her efforts did not go in vain. She is and will forever remain the inspiration for every athlete out there.

Aptly named Golden Girl, PT Usha’s autobiography is packed with inspiration and should definitely be on your list of books to read.

Why choose when you can have best of both the worlds?

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10 best inspirational biographies you must read.

Inspirational biographies can help people identify their passions and determine what to do to pursue them, even in difficult times. To help you find the best inspirational biographies, read this article.

Best Inspirational Biographies to Read

Steve jobs by walter isaacson.

Wings of Fire: Autobiography of APJ Abdul Kalam

WINGS OF FIRE - AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF ABDUL KALAM

The diary of a young girl by anne frank.

The Diary of a Young Girl

Gandhi before india by ramachandra guha.

Husain: Portrait of an Artist by Ila Pal

Husain- Portrait of an Artist by Ila Pal

Beyond the last blue mountain: a life of jrd tata by r m lala.

Beyond the Last Blue Mountain - A Life of J.R.D. Tata

Man who knew infinity by robert kanigel.

MAN WHO KNEW INFINITY

Sir c v raman by uma parmeshwaram.

C V Raman- A biography by Uma Parmeshwaran

Outlaw: india’s bandit queen and me by roy moxham.

Outlaw - India’s Bandit Queen and Me by Roy Moxham

Spy princess: the life of noor inayat khan by sharbani basu.

Spy Pincess - The Life of Noor Inayat Khan by Sharbani Basu

Faqs: best inspirational biographies, q1. which is the best inspirational biography to read, q2. which is the best autobiography to read, q3. what is inspirational biography, related products.

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