Indian History is so huge that if you started reading about it in your childhood and went on to live well into your 100s, you would still miss out on a vast majority of it.
What is exciting about this history is that all of it is segregated into different various periods or eras. History as a subject is very massive and studying it may get boring after a point.
This is a common feeling amongst people, however, the subject is split into eras so well that it manages to make the subject more interesting than it should be.
If we were to judge by our existence we live in the post-independence era which is now almost 75 years old.
There is a good chance that none of us have any idea about even half of the period, now just imagine what all we miss out on when we look at 4 more eras that history is split into.
Prehistoric, ancient history, medieval history, and modern history are the other unexplored areas of history where there is so much more to learn about.
Thus, we look at the best Indian history books written in each era and the all-time best history books that you need in your home library right now.
Indian history is divided into 5 eras
- Prehistoric
The oldest history that looks at the beginning of records of humans is the prehistoric period. This is the time when humans came into existence, walked the surface of the Earth, and slowly and steadily spread to different places and started to learn the ways of life.
The period itself has subdivisions under it like the Paleolithic and Neolithic phase which looks at documentation and proof of movement and settling of people in communities.
- Ancient HistoryThis period of history in India stretches from 2800 BC to 500 BC and this is the time when various civilizations came into existence and ceased to exist.
The movement of people started to take place more aggressively as compared to olden times and the invasion of Aryans and the birth of religions like Buddhism and Jainism came into being. - Medieval HistoryBetween ancient and modern histories there lies a part of history that came to be known as Medieval history. A lot of different empires came to the throne and left it.
Invasions increased to an extent where ancient history could not even be compared to this period in the invasion sense.
This part of history is usually divided into early and late medieval periods and it existed from around the 6th century to the 16th century. - Modern History A period in history remembered for more good than bad, this was the time when art flourished and the times were more peaceful than the previous two eras.
India also saw good growth in an economical sense and the Indo-Islamic ties also began improving.
This is also the period when Sikh and Maratha leaders got a hold of most parts of India, however, all of this began to change when the British invaded India.
Before the British entered India, the nation got a lot of its famous monuments that still stand today, however, after the Britishers came in the harmony that existed started to go away.
A lot of freedom fighters started to come to life and a revolt also took place in 1857 which eventually failed to bring positive results. - Post-Independence History
This is the period when the lines between history and civics blurred. On August 15th, 1947 India got its freedom from the Britishers and that is when we walked into the most recent era of Indian history.
Getting a constitution, becoming a republic, separation, formulation of policies, establishment of government, laying down methods of operation, and a lot more things took place in this era.
The era in which we live today as we slowly and steadily move towards the Diamond Jubilee of our Independence
Best Indian History Books (2022)
Books On Pre-Historic Era
1. Prehistoric Rock Art of India by Erwin Neumayer
One of the best books available in the market is this gem that talks of Prehistoric rock art.
The book was published by Oxford Press University of India in 2013. What adds value to this book is that it is not thoroughly historic.
It looks at history from an archaeological perspective and when these two subjects combine it becomes a real delight.
The book is only available in the English language and costs above Rs.50,000.
The book is 316 pages long and has received a 5-star rating on Amazon. The book is blessed with a ton of rock images and in-depth knowledge of rocks from prehistoric times.
With art being the focal point the book looks at the art of that time and talks about how it was diversified and reveals a lot of interesting details about that time in history.
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2. Unknown Civilization of Prehistoric India by Subhashis Das
Published by Kaveri books, this book came out in 2014. The book which is just 184 pages long costs Rs.1,050.
But gives a detailed insight into the history of India, specifically prehistoric India.
The book is available in the English language. The book boasts of a strong 4-star rating and is a sequel to another hit book by the same author.
This book deserves your attention because of what it offers. The book looks at the civilization of prehistoric India
That didn't get as much attention as others or that got lost in history books. The book looks at Kolarian tribes, the presence of mathematics and astronomy in prehistoric times, funeral practices, and much more.
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3. Prehistoric India - Its Place In The World's Cultures by Panchanan Mitra
For Rs.1,055 this 520-page long book is very affordable.
Gyan published this book more than a decade ago in 2009 and it is available in the English language.
The book has gotten a 5-star rating and the book features. In the list because of its focus on India's position in the world on the cultural aspect in prehistoric times.
The book looks at the cultural norms prevalent in various tribes and groups of people that settled in India
And how it was different from or similar to the cultures of people living in other parts of the world.
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Books On Ancient History
1. The Lost River: On The Trail of the Sarasvati by Michel Danino
Published by Penguin India in the English language the book came out in 2010 and is 476 pages long.
The book talks about the Sarasvati river and how it impacted the lives of the civilizations that it supported.
The book is a must-read considering how it emphasizes the need for water and how the changing course of a river is all it takes to end a throbbing civilization.
Especially one like Indus Valley Civilization. The book also boasts of a superb 4.6 rating and hardcover edition can be purchased at 366 INR..
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2. In Search of the Cradle of Civilization by Georg Feuerstein, Subhash Kak, David Frawley
Depending on if you go for a paperback or a hardcover the book is available in the price range of Rs.250 to 615.
The book is available in the English language and was published by Quest Books in 2001.
The book has a rating of 4.3 stars and is popular amongst people. The book needs to be read especially by Indians as it speaks about how India was the cradle of world civilization.
The book talks about Indian spirituality and the role it plays to date. The book also draws an archaeological angle, literature, and a lot of other interesting aspects that talk about India being very developed and functional back then.
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3. The Wonder that was India by A.L. Basham
Picador India published this book as recently as 2019, however, originally Sidgwick & Jackson published it in 1954 in the English language.
At 716 pages this bulky book has a lot of history to tell.
The 4.5 rating of the book says that the book has performed well and the book is available for Rs.389 in paperback version and Rs.4615 in hardcover.
The book talks about India before Muslims came to the country.
Read the book to learn about Indus Valley Civilization and other civilizations as to how they flourished and seized to exist and how they functioned till they did.
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4. Ancient Cities of the Indus Valley Civilization by Jonathan Mark Kenoyer
Oxford University Press published this book in 1998 and it is 260 pages long.
The book has a strong rating of 4 stars and the book was digitized in 2008.
Shelling out between 25,000 to Rs.40,000 would be enough to get your hands on this book blessed with historical knowledge.
The book is available for reading in English. The book throws light on Pakistan and India in the period ranging from 2600 BC to 1900 BC.
This is One of the Best Ancient Indian history books.
The speciality of the book is its close following of the earlier civilizations and their understanding. The book looks at the civilizations and how they shared a lot in common and also takes a look at the trade setup, architecture, and other aspects of all of them.
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5. Lifestyle of the Vedic People by Pranati Ghosal
D.K.Printworld published the book all the way back in 2006 to see it getting a 5-star review online.
The book is only 279 pages long and is available for Rs.425. The book was published in the English language.
As the name suggests the book looks at the life of Vedic people. Be it, elite people, average citizens, or the poor the book takes all of them into account.
Traditions, rituals, mode of transport, types of houses, etc., and various other such aspects take the centre point in this book.
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Books on Medieval Indian History
1. Prithviraj Chauhan and his times by RV Somani
Pay rupees 295 and you get this book that is rich with information about Prithviraj Chauhan.
Publication Scheme published the book in the English language back in 1981.
The book is 192 pages long-only and talks about a lot of aspects of Prithviraj's life.
A person who is interested in knowing the struggle of Prithviraj against Turks cannot afford to miss this book.
The book also overlooks the cultural influences of his time and talks of unknown facts from Chauhan's life.
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2. Annals & Antiquities of Rajasthan by James Tod
From Rs.245 to Rs.600 the book is available in physical and non-physical forms.
The book was published in 2008 by Roli Books and is available in English. The book is only 142 pages long and that is enough to have gotten it a 4.3 rating.
The book is about Rajasthan and its majestic aspects. The author shares his personal experience in Rajasthan and the book talks about the systems and working ways of Rajasthan.
Customs, festivals, and a look at the life of different types of people living in Rajasthan is the highlight of the book.
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3. The Royal Rajputs: Strange Tales and Stranger Truths by Manoshi Bhattacharya
This book is 570 pages long and only costs Rs.541 so that is a good start. The book was published by Rupa in 2008 and is available in the English language.
The book also has a high rating of 4.1 stars and that makes it more appealing.
The name of the book is more than enough to draw in a crowd. Focusing on the life of Royal Rajputs.
The book has got a lot of facts and stories to unveil that the people may have no idea about. The readers need to grab the book to get an insight into some of the most shocking reveals that history has to offer.
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4. Maharana Pratap: The Greatest Rajput Warrior by Rima Hooja
For less than Rs.310, this book is available in online and physical forms.
Juggernaut published this book in English. The book is only 232 pages long.
The book was published in 2018 and has a solid 4.5 rating. Great people get great stories and that is what this good is about.
Maharana Pratap was a fearless leader for whom pride in himself and his people was important and that led him to fight the strongest of foes and that is what the book focuses on.
His story has been retold and a lot of new details come to light which is why this book needs to be a part of your reading list.
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5. South India Under the Cholas by Y. Subbarayalu
In 2011 Oxford Press University published the book. 272 pages long the book is available in English and is priced at Rs.795.
The book has gotten a strong rating of 4.3 stars from 5. The book takes a look at Cholas and their dynasty and how they functioned.
The book looks at the period between the 9th to 13th centuries. A lot of research on the systems, laws, functioning, etc. of Cholas was done extensively to bring this book to fruition.
A history enthusiast is surely going to have a good time getting their hands on this one.
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Modern History
1. An Era of Darkness: The British Empire in India by Shashi Tharoor
Available in hardcover, audio, and online modes, this book by Shashi Tharoor is one of the best books on Indian history.
For a little under Rs.500, you get the book in physical form. The book was published by Aleph Book Company in 2016 and is 360 pages in length.
The book has a very good rating of 4.5 stars and is available in the English language.
Read the book to get an insight into the other side of the interesting debate of British rule doing more harm than good.
The book surely should make it to your personal library if you call yourself a history enthusiast. With a lot of positive reviews on this one, the book has surely done something right to deserve at least one read from all the history lovers.
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2. Tatya Tope's Operation Red Lotus by Parag Tope
In 2010 Rupa published this 468-page long book. The book is available in the English language and has a huge 4.7-star rating that it can boast of.
The book can also be read online via Kindle and talks about another interesting story that Indian history has to offer.
Tatya Tope was one of India's first set of freedom fighters and his contribution to the Revolt of 1857 is still spoken about
And so it was only fitting to look at him through a magnifying glass and that is what this book does. Historians who are especially intrigued by studying wars
And revolts would surely be pulled towards this book for the answers it has to offer about one of history's most suspicious moments. The kindle edition of the book can be purchased at INR 469.
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3. The Last Mughal by William Dairymple
May 2007 is when this brilliant book was published by Penguin India.
The book came out in the English language and is 578 pages long.
Ranging from Rs.320 for the Kindle edition to Rs.11,415 for an audio version, the book is available in multiple forms.
To back the pricing the book also sits strong with a 4.6-star rating. The name of the book is self-explanatory and there are no marks for guessing who it is about.
The book revolves around a very interesting topic and that is why it should tempt you too. Bahadur Shah Zafar, Britishers, a bloody war, and a lot of hidden facts are all on offer in this book and so miss this one at your own risk.
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4. India’s Struggle for Independence by Bipan Chandra
For rupees 224 this 600-page book has a lot to share about India's fight for Independence.
Published in the English language by Penguin Random House India, the book hit the shelves in August 2016 and has a 4.5-star rating.
Why read this book? If your school history book impressed you with India's fight for freedom then you are surely not ready for the whole truth.
Taking a deeper dive into history this book has a detailed account of India and its fight for freedom.
All those movements against the Britishers by some of the most recognized faces in Indian history and a lot more including detailed accounts of how and what went on behind the scenes is are what all is available in this book.
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Post-Independence History:
1. Your Prime Minister is Dead by Anuj Dhar
Published as recently as 2018, the book is available in the English language.
Vitasta Publishing Private Limited published the 380-page long book and the book had done pretty well by getting itself a 4.6-star rating.
The book is currently priced at Rs.239 rupees. This book is no less than a thriller as it takes on a bold topic.
Lal Bahadur Shastri and his death have been a big mystery forever and have bothered a lot of people over the years
And so it was only natural that someone went ahead and got their answers and that is exactly what this book does. Reading this book is absolutely necessary for those who require answers and have a taste for controversies.
This subject has also gotten a movie on itself and so that shows you just how important and interesting the subject is and thus the book needs to be read.
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2. India's Wars: A Military History, 1947-1971 by Arjun Subramaniam
If you love wars and want an insight into India's wars then this book published by HarperCollins is your go-to book.
This 576-page long book was published in 2016 in the English language and has a strong rating of 4.6 stars.
The book is available in multiple forms and for INR 549, one can get the paperback version.
War with Pakistan, fight with China, and getting rid of the Portuguese, India surely had a lot to do even after the Britishers left, and this book talks of all the problems that India faced right after the Independence all the way to 1971.
You need to read this book to know just how much contribution the armed forces and other departments made to keep India safe from all threats in its early days of freedom.
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3. Himalayan Blunder: The Curtain-Raiser to the Sino-Indian War of 1962 by JP Dalvi
Available in English this book is rich in a tragic part of Indian history. In November 1997 the book was published by Natraj.
The book is 520 pages in length and has a 4.4-star rating. For rupees Rs.449 the book is available on Kindle.
There are also other options for accessing the book.The book talks about Brigadier JP Davis'sDavis first-hand experience in the war of 1962.
Reason to read the book? You get to know about one of India's wars right from the horse's mouth.
India's political failures played into the hands of the Chinese and led to the war in which the country was set to fail before the war even began and that is what this book revolves around.
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4. The Naxalite Movement in India by Prakash Singh
Rupa Publications India published this book in English in 2016.
The 323-page long book is available for purchase for just under 290 rupees.
The book has a solid rating of 4.2 stars and covers one of the most interesting topics that Indian history has to offer.
Naxals or extremist leftist wings in the past have caused a lot of problems for the government and citizens and that is why they have been termed as a potential threat.
This book takes a look at the Naxals and their movements. The troubles caused, the emergence, etc. A lot of aspects of the Naxals is uncovered in this book
And you need to read the book to get an in-depth knowledge of Naxals who to date continue to be a serious threat to peace and harmony.
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List of Best History Books
1. Ancient India by RC Majumdar
The book was published by Motilal Banarsidass Publications in 1977 and has a 4.4-star rating.
The book is available in the English language and is full of 573 pages of history.
The book is available for 240 rupees in a paperback and the hardcover version is a bit more pricey at 405 rupees.
As the name suggests the book looks at Ancient India, specifically 3 different periods ranging from 600 BC to 1200 AD. The book looks at the prevalent norms in society, the lifestyle, the politics, the religious angles, etc. of the various timelines.
If good reviews are not enough reason to convince you to read the book then read it for the rich historical knowledge that it has to offer.
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2. Prehistory and Protohistory of India – An Appraisal by VK Jain
This 230-page long book was published in English in June 2006.
D.K. Print World Ltd published the book and it is purchasable in various forms and is cheaply priced between 210 to 520 rupees.
The book also has good ratings to back itself as it boasts a 4.3-star rating.
Stone age and Catholic churches outside Harappa formed to be the main subject of the book where various aspects of these settlements were spoken about.
Other than that Peninsular India and Deccan areas were also studied in the book. Love for history and ancient civilizations should be the magnet that pulls you toward this book.
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3. Ancient History of India by Charles J. Naegele
Published by D.K. Print Ltd in 2011 the book is available for purchase in the English language.
The 238-page long book is priced at Rs.425 rupees. With a 4.3 star rating online the book has performed well and has readers' backing.
The book covers subjects of Ancient history where it looks to study the connection between elements of different eras to each other.
Indus and Harappa civilization, Rigveda, and people of the Aryan race are some of the elements that the book throws light upon. This book needs to be the next book you read because of the story that it has got to tell.
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4. A Concise History of South India: Issues and Interpretations by Noboru Karashima
Published by Oxford University Press in 2014 in English this book is 418 pages long.
The book is available in the paperback version online for purchase and one can obtain it for less than Rs.1,000 rupees.
The book has a strong rating as well as it has received 4.4 stars. The title of the book speaks volumes about what the book is about.
Indus and Harappa civilization, Rigveda, and people of the Aryan race are some of the elements that the book throws light upon.
This book needs to be the next book you read because of the story that it has got to tell.
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5. History of Medieval India: From 1000 A. D. To 1707 A. D. by R.S. Chaurasia
For anywhere between Rs.300 to Rs. 640 rupees the book is available in paperback and hardcover options.
Atlantic publication published the book in 2021 and it is available in English.
The 336-page long book has an above-average rating of 3.5 stars.
The book throws light upon the medieval period of history.
Though the period was not great in an economic sense the time was great for art and literature and that is exactly what this book depicts. You would want to read the book if arts and literature are your things.
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Conclusion
Indian history is so bulky that even after covering almost 26 books on the subject we still don't even cover 1% percent of the total.
All the best book for Indian history mentioned above have their own interesting and intriguing stories to reveal and are well worth the money that you decide to spend on them.
History has been kind, cruel, intense, full of clashes, betrayal, and much more.
Although the time has gone the mysteries and repercussions remain and it is always exciting to get to know why things are the way they are.
I hope you liked our article on Best Indian history books, if you have any comments or suggestions do share them in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which is the best book to read about Indian history?
Indian history is a very vast subject and no book in the world can cover such a lengthy topic hence no one book can claim to be the best since all of them have different stories to tell.
To find great books on Indian history you need to look no further than this article.
How can I study Indian history?
Indian history can be studied via various books that are written on the subject.School textbooks are a good place to start, if someone has an appetite for more then they can purchase books mentioned on this list.
Who is the father of Indian history?
Megasthenes who lived from 350 BC to 290 BC is widely regarded as the father of Indian history.The man was the first ambassador of foreign in India and his works to date are held in high regard.
Who is known as India's first historian?
Kalhana is regarded as the first historian of India. He wrote a book on the kings of Kashmir in 1148 BC which took two years to complete.He was born in Kashmir and his father was a minister under a king in Kashmir.
Who was the last king of India?
The post is fought for by two people. Popularly Bahadur Shah Zafar II is considered to be the last ruler of India before British rule.
However, in a conflicted call a lot of people believe Wajid Ali Shah to be the last known ruler of India.
Here are the best Indian history books :
