When it comes to modern Indian Literature, Chetan Bhagat
novels instantly come to our mind. Known for this simple yet powerful
storytelling, he has redefined the way young Indians adapt with books. His
novels are easy to understand, emotionally engaging and often adapted in to
Bollywood blockbusters.
With themes of love, friendship, ambition and social
struggles, Chetan’s works play a significant role with the readers across India
and beyond. If you are new to his writing, the big question is “Which Chetan
Bhagat books should I start with?
To help you to decide, we have ranked the Top 5 best
Chetan Bhagat books that you should add in your daily reading list.
👉 And yes, we’ve also
included direct links so that you can grab your copy online-whether you prefer,
paperback, kindle or even audiobook versions.
A Quick Introduction: Who is Chetan Bhagat?
Chetan Bhagat was born in 1974 in Delhi. An IIT (Indian
Institute of Technology) graduate with MBA from IIM (Indian Institute of
Management), he worked as an investment banker and switched his career as
full-time author after that.
His first book, Five Point Someone (2004), become an instant
bestseller and embarked a new beginning in Indian English fiction. Today he is
not only a novelist but also a columnist, motivational speaker and a screen
writer.
What makes him unique is his connection with India’s youth.
He writes about the issues that matters love across cultural boundaries,
corruption and so on. His language is simple, relatable and his characters
feels real
Top 5 Best Chetan Bhagat Books
1. Five Point Someone (2004)
Why It’s #1
Bhagat’s debut novel always remains his most iconic. It is
the story of three IIT students Hari,Rayan, and Alok who struggle with academic
pressure of India’s toughest institution. This book is filled with humor,
rebellion, friendship and ups and downs in college life.
It also inspred the
Bollywood blockbuster 3 idiots, starring by Amir Khan, R.Madhavan and Sharman
Joshi.
Who Should Read It?
- Students,
Teenagers and young adults
- Readers
who enjoy college tales
- Anyone
curious about the IIT culture in India
2.2 States (2009)
Why It’s Special
A romantic comedy inspired by Bhagat’s own love story, 2
states follows Krish (a Punjabi boy) and Ananya (a Tamil girl) as they try to
convince their families for their marriage. The book beautifull depicts the
cultural difference between North and South India while keeping the tone
humorous and light.
A romantic comedy inspired by Bhagat’s own love story, 2
States follows Krish (a Punjabi boy) and Ananya (a Tamil girl) as they try
to convince their families to approve of their marriage. The book beautifully
highlights the cultural differences between North and South India while keeping
the tone light and humorous.
It was later adapted into a movie starring Arjun Kapoor and
Alia Bhatt.
Who Should Read It?
- Romance
story lovers
- Readers
who enjoy cultural love themes in relationships
- Fans
of light hearted family drama
👉 Buy Here: Get it on Amazon
3. The 3 Mistakes of My Life (2008)
Why It Stands Out
Set in Ahmedabad, this book tells about the story of three
friends Govind, Ishaan and Omi who chase their dreams. With Cricket, religion politics and friendship as its main core, this book feels socially relevant to
the readers.
The story was adapted into the Bollywood film Kai Po Che!, starring Sushant Singh Rajput, Rajkumar Rao, and Amit Sadh.
Who Should Read It?
- Cricket
enthusiasts
- Readers
who are interested in stories about ambition and struggle
- Anyone
who enjoys a blend of friendship and drama
👉 Buy Here: Shop Now on Amazon
4. One Night @ The Call Center (2005)
Why It’s Unique
This quirky story is about six employees in Gurgaon call centre
dealing with love issues, career frustration and insecurities. Their loves
change dramatically one night when they receive an unexpected call from God.
It is witty, funny and inspirational, making the whole story
and memorable one.
Who Should Read It?
- Young
professionals
- Readers
looking for humor with motivational life lessons
- Fans
of short, fast-paced novels
👉 Buy Here: Grab Your Copy
5. Revolution 2020 (2011)
Why It’s Popular
Set in Varanasi, Revolution 2020 follows three childhood
friends Gopal, Raghav and Aarti caught in love triangle. This book also shines
a light on corruption in Indian education system.
I forgot to mention that this is one of Chetan's most
dramatic works which shows how ambition and love sinks with morality.
Who Should Read It?
- Readers
who enjoy love triangles
- Anyone
who is socially conscious storytelling
- Fans
of drama-filled romances
👉 Buy Here: Order on Amazon
Comparison Table: Best 5 Chetan Bhagat Books
|
Book Title |
Genre |
Why Read
It? |
Buy Link |
|
Five Point
Someone |
Campus/Drama |
Iconic debut,
relatable student life |
|
|
2 States |
Romance/Comedy |
Fun, cultural
clash love story |
|
|
The 3
Mistakes of My Life |
Friendship/Drama |
Mix of
cricket, politics, and ambition |
|
|
One Night @
Call Center |
Humor/Motivation |
Fun, quirky,
with life lessons |
|
|
Revolution
2020 |
Romance/Drama |
Love triangle
+ corruption in education |
Why Are Chetan Bhagat’s Books So Popular?
- Relatable
Characters → His story revolves around everyday people – students,
call centre employees, dreamers making it easy to connect with them.
- Simple
Language → His writing style is simple, beginner-friendly, making
reading accessible to everyone.
- Blend
of Entertainment & Social Issues → While his books is not only
about fun, they also address real-life problems like corruption, education
pressure, and cultural differences.
- Bollywood
Adaptations → Many of his novels have been turned into hit movies,
bringing even more attention to his stories.
FAQs About Chetan Bhagat Books
1. Which is Chetan Bhagat’s first book?
Five Point Someone (2004) was his debut novel.
2. Which Chetan Bhagat books became movies?
- Five
Point Someone → 3 Idiots
- 2
States → 2 States (movie)
- The
3 Mistakes of My Life → Kai Po Che!
- One
Night @ The Call Center → inspired Hello
3. Are Chetan Bhagat books interesting to read?
Yes! His simple, conversational style makes his books
perfect for readers who are new to English novels.
4. Which Chetan Bhagat book should I read first?
If you’re a beginner, start with Five Point Someone.
If you love romance, try 2 States. For thrill and drama, Revolution
2020 is a great choice.
Conclusion
Chetan Bhagat’s books are perfect for anyone looking for
stories that blend love, humour, ambition, and social issues.
- Start
with Five Point Someone if you want his most iconic book.
- Pick
2 States if romance and cultural issues in love fascinate
you.
- Go
for The 3 Mistakes of My Life if you love friendship and cricket.
- Try One
Night @ The Call Center for humor and motivational stories.
- Read Revolution 2020 if you like a mix of love drama and corruption-themed way of storytelling.
👉 Explore More Chetan Bhagat Books on Amazon
