Making poetry relatable, inclusive, and a medium for expression and social change
Poetry has long been the heartbeat of Indian literature, shaping narratives, preserving histories, and expressing emotions that transcend time. From the ancient verses of Kalidasa to the modern musings of Ranjit Hoskote, Indian poetry has evolved, embracing new themes and styles while staying rooted in its rich cultural heritage. Here we explore the voices of modern Indian poets who have embraced this transformation, shaping contemporary Indian literature.
Starting with the journey of modern Indian poetry—from its early influences to the present day, explore a few key modern Indian poets who continue to redefine the art of verse.
According to an article published in The Atlantic, the modern period of Indian poetry can be traced back roughly a hundred years, beginning with a phase of extreme Westernization. English literature made its way into Indian consciousness through missionary schools, influencing poets to experiment with new themes and structures. Many early modern Indian poets wrote in English or adapted Western poetic forms into vernacular languages.
As Indian poetry evolved, it moved beyond Western imitations to embrace its own unique voice. Thematically, late 19th century and early 20th century Indian poetry touches upon identity, post-colonialism, feminism, personal introspection, and socio-political change.
Today, poetry in India spans a broad spectrum—from spoken word and performance poetry to deeply introspective and experimental writing.
Current Trends in Indian Poetry:
- Rise of spoken word poetry and digital platforms like YouTube and Instagram as new spaces for poets to showcase their work.
- A surge in poetry tackling themes like identity, feminism, caste, and LGBTQ+ rights.
- Increased publication of poetry anthologies and poetry-based zines in India.
- The re-emergence of bilingual poetry, with poets blending English with regional languages for a hybrid poetic experience.
A poet, cultural theorist, and art critic, Ranjit Hoskote’s poetry is known for its intellectual depth and rich imagery. His work often explores history, memory, and displacement, weaving together the personal and the political. He has been awarded several prestigious literary honors and continues to shape the Indian poetry scene through his writings and translations.
Browse his books HERE
Blending poetry and dance, Tishani Doshi’s works reflect themes of movement, womanhood, and loss. Her collections, like Girls Are Coming Out of the Woods, are celebrated for their lyrical beauty and powerful narratives. Her poetry often carries a sense of urgency, tackling issues of gender, identity, and the passage of time with striking honesty.
Browse her books HERE
Blending poetry and dance, Tishani Doshi’s works reflect themes of movement, womanhood, and loss. Her collections, like Girls Are Coming Out of the Woods, are celebrated for their lyrical beauty and powerful narratives. Her poetry often carries a sense of urgency, tackling issues of gender, identity, and the passage of time with striking honesty.
Browse her books HERE
A contemporary voice in Indian poetry, Akhil Katyal writes about love, identity, and queerness with striking simplicity and wit. His work is deeply personal yet universally relatable. He is widely recognized for his ability to blend humor with serious themes, making his poetry both engaging and thought-provoking.
Browse his books HERE
Known for her spiritual and philosophical themes, Arundhathi Subramaniam’s poetry explores inner worlds, self-discovery, and mysticism. Her collection When God is a Traveller won the Sahitya Akademi Award. She is also an accomplished essayist and editor, contributing significantly to discussions on poetry and spirituality in contemporary literature.
Browse her books HERE
A versatile poet and translator, Sampurna Chattarji’s work spans themes of urban alienation, childhood, and surreal dreamscapes. Her poetry is known for its innovative language and compelling narratives. She has also worked extensively with children’s literature, further showcasing her wide-ranging literary prowess.
Browse her books HERE
A veteran poet with a career spanning decades, Daruwalla’s poetry is marked by its rich storytelling, historical consciousness, and sharp social critique. His work often combines mythology with contemporary themes. He has received multiple literary awards, including the Sahitya Akademi Award, and remains an influential figure in Indian poetry.
Browse his books HERE
Best known for his prose, Ruskin Bond’s poetry is equally enchanting. His poems capture the simplicity of life, nostalgia, and the beauty of nature in the hills of India. His poetry often reflects the deep connection he shares with the natural world, infusing his verses with warmth and a quiet sense of wonder.
Browse his books HERE
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