9 horror books by Indian authors that will keep you up at night

Horror books possess a gripping power that ensnares readers, evoking spine-tingling thrills and psychological chills. These tales tap into our deepest fears, from supernatural entities to everyday terrors, holding readers in a chokehold of suspense. With masterful storytelling and imagery, horror authors create a haunting experience that keeps audiences turning pages in both fascination and dread. The ability to evoke intense emotions makes horror literature an irresistible genre.

The book features Kartik Godse's mundane life, which takes an eerie turn when he relocates to Kurseong. On his first day, a frightened man's plea and an encounter with two strangers thrust him into a world of intruders, ghosts and rumours. Teaming up with Tashi and Opus, Kartik becomes a paranormal investigator and private eye, unraveling a web of deceit and supernatural phenomena centered around the mysterious Iyer Bungalow.

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‘Tales Of Horror’ is a collection of four spine-chilling stories. The premise is one of chills and horrors and offers a bone-chilling experience. The book ventures beyond traditional ghost stories to explore lesser-discussed horrors rooted in folklore, leaving a lingering sense of spookiness that's hard to shake.

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In India, much like its diverse cuisine and languages, the realm of the supernatural boasts a rich variety too. With spectral entities varying by community, region and tribe, we have the menacing Muni Pei of Tamil Nadu to the fish-loving Mechho Bhoots of Bengal and the infamous chudails of North India haunting local neighborhoods. Riksundar Banerjee presents a meticulously researched exploration of Indian ghosts, unraveling their legends, enigmas, tales, beliefs, superstitions and firsthand experiences.

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Abhirup Dhar, a distinguished figure in the realm of horror literature, is celebrated for his mastery of the genre. Collaborating with the Indian Paranormal Society, he unveils a gripping compilation that delves into some of the most bone-chilling investigations.

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The book is a collection of five tales that will send shivers down the spines of even the most fearless readers. Ranging from horror to subtly eerie, the stories are perfect to scare a group of your friends or narrate during the chilly, winter sleepovers.

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The main character of the novel externally embodies a Pishacha, a menacing demon driven by an insatiable craving for human flesh. Yet, deep within, his heart retains a tender longing for his past love. Over a century later, he stumbles upon the rebirth of his beloved, now known as Neetika, residing in Mumbai. A newfound hope ignites within him. However, formidable challenges loom, including her affection for another man and the insurmountable divide between their species. To win her heart, the Pishacha must reclaim his humanity, confronting holy men, witch-mothers, giants and even challenging the divine forces themselves.

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Generations ago, the villagers of Bhata resorted to a dark occult ritual to evade hell's clutches. In consequence, a haunting prophecy emerged, foreseeing the birth of hell within Bhata and its eventual expansion under the reign of the demonic empress of darkness. Now, Bhata's roads are sealed at night, haunted by a witch who asks travelers for a ride. Those who venture there vanish forever: Men meet their demise, children drown and women lose their sight during the seven-hour curse.

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The book weaves a plethora of narratives for the readers. It features a weaver mastering the art of universe creation, goddesses engaged in cosmic clashes, a shape-shifter controlling her untamed abilities, a graphic designer confronting a mysterious tattoo secret and even a chudail stirring a kitty party revelation. From self-discovery to demon-hunting surprises, these stories, crafted by female authors, explore themes of love, rebellion and the power of choice.

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Nestled in a remote, obscure village, the book unfolds against the backdrop of an ancient temple's desolate ruins, abandoned by worshipers long ago. Locals caution passersby to avert their gaze, walk away and resist the temptation to enter the abandoned shrine, no matter the enticement. The temple houses the Devi, a deity rumored to ensnare unsuspecting souls, offering wishes in exchange for a promised offering. The main character, Aditi, newly married and navigating a deeply patriarchal society, relocates to the isolated village, unaware of the village's harrowing past. Aditi's curiosity is piqued when she learns of the temple and the wish-fulfilling Devi, eventually succumbing to its allure.

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