Is R. K. Narayan A-List?
NoB
No — R. K. Narayan is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Ranking Timeline
1935D$0.001M
First Novel: Swami and Friends
Marks the beginning of his literary career.
1943C▲$0.01M+$0.009000000000000001M
"Malgudi Days" Publication
Establishes Malgudi as a key setting.
1958B▲$0.05M+$0.04M
The Guide is Published
Gains wider recognition for his writing.
1960B$0.1M+$0.05M
Sahitya Akademi Award Recipient
Awarded for The Guide; increases his prestige.
1980B$0.25M+$0.15M
AC Benson Medal Awarded
Honored for contributions to literature.
2000B$0.9M+$0.65M
Continued Literary Influence
Remained relevant till the end of his life.
2026B$1M+$0.09999999999999998M
Legacy as Indian Novelist
Remembered as a key figure in Indian literature.
Last updated: February 25, 2026