They usually have a strong sense of place. Like novels set in the ancient forts of Rajasthan might use the dark corridors and hidden chambers of the forts to build horror. The settings play a big role in creating the spooky atmosphere.
Many Indian novels are rich in cultural details. They often depict the complex caste system, family values, and religious beliefs. For instance, in 'The God of Small Things', the caste system affects the characters' lives deeply. Also, Indian novels can be very diverse in terms of themes, from love stories like in 'A Suitable Boy' to critiques of society as in 'The White Tiger'.
The language used in these novels can be very descriptive and evocative. Indian writers often use local dialects and idioms to add authenticity to their stories. This makes the novels not only a great read for understanding the stories but also for getting a feel of the diverse Indian languages and cultures.
One characteristic is that they tend to be very emotional. They can make you laugh, cry, and feel a whole range of emotions. Take 'The Palace of Illusions' for instance. Draupadi's story is full of love, jealousy, and heartbreak. Also, Indian romance novels often incorporate elements of Indian mythology or history. This gives them a unique flavor. In 'The Immortals of Meluha', the story is based on a fictionalized version of ancient India's mythology. The romances are deeply intertwined with the characters' destinies and the larger story of the society or the world they live in. There is also a sense of community in these novels, as the characters' relationships are not just isolated love stories but are part of a bigger social fabric.
Many of the novels in this list often blend cultural elements. For example, in 'The Palace of Illusions', the cultural norms and values of ancient India play a big role in shaping the relationships and the story. Love is not just about personal feelings but is also influenced by the society and its expectations.
Many of them often have a strong sense of place. For example, they vividly describe the Indian landscapes, cities, and villages as they were in different historical periods.
Many of them play with the sense of the unknown. For example, they might have settings like abandoned asylums or old, haunted houses where there are things lurking in the shadows that the characters (and readers) don't understand at first.
Many of them would likely play on the psychological fears of the readers. This could include things like the fear of losing one's mind, or the fear of being alone in a menacing situation. They might also use elements of the supernatural in a way that was believable within the context of the story, blurring the lines between the real and the otherworldly. This was a time when horror was exploring different ways to terrify its audience, and these novels from 1976 were part of that exploration.
Many of them had a focus on psychological horror. For example, in some novels, the real horror came from the minds of the characters rather than just external monsters. It made the readers feel more involved as they could relate to the psychological states.
Some, like 'The Girl with All the Gifts', combine horror with a sense of humanity. The main character, a child zombie, makes you feel empathy while still being in a horror - filled world.
Many Indian detective novels are known for their vivid descriptions of the local culture. For example, the settings often showcase the bustling streets, the diverse food, and the complex social hierarchies of India.