| Culture |
Few countries in the world have such an ancient and diverse culture as India's. Stretching back in an unbroken sweep over 5000 years, India's culture has been enriched by successive waves of migration, which were absorbed into the Indian way of life.
It is this variety which is a special hallmark of India. Its physical, religious and racial variety is as immense as its linguistic diversity. Underneath this diversity lies the continuity of Indian civilization and social structure from the very earliest times until the present day.
Modern India presents a picture of unity in diversity to which history provides no parallel. Here is a catalogue of everything Indian. Indian religions, festivals, rituals, artifacts, monuments, costumes, music and dance, language and literature.
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| Languages |
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It has been said that India is a living Tower of Babel! There are 22 different languages that have been recognised by the Constitution of India, of which Hindi, in the Devnagri script is an Official Language. However, English continues to be the official working language.
The country has a wide variety of local languages and in many cases the State... [read more] |
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| Clothing |
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To the foreign traveller, one of the powerful attractions in India is the colourful and diversified attire of its people. The silk saris, brightly mirrored cholis, colorful lehangas and the traditional salwar-kameez have fascinated many a traveler over the centuries.
For a single length of material, the sari must be the most versatile garment in existence. It is only one of the many...[read more] |
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| Religions |
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In India, religion is a way of life. It is an integral part of the entire Indian tradition. For the majority of Indians, religion permeates every aspect of life, from common-place daily chores to education and politics. Secular India is home to Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism and other innumerable religious traditions. Hinduism is the dominant faith, practised by over 80%... [read more] |
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| Festivals |
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The Indian calendar is one long procession of festivals. These are as varied in origin as they are large in number. There are innumerable national, regional, local, religious, seasonal and social festivities. This is not surprising considering the fact that India is the land of gods, goddesses, saints, gurus and prophets.
Festivals here...[read more] |
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| Marriages |
No event is as greater than a marriage in India. They are bright events filled with ritual and celebration, which continue for several days.
Most of the religions in India regard marriage as more of a religious ritual than a social or legal affair; it is considered as a soulful affair of the merger of two souls and in broader picture of two families. They are a perfect blend of traditions, values and celebrations.
The rituals and customs in any family are mainly based on the religion or community that the family follows.
Though the main wedding function is limited to few hours on the wedding day, the pre-wedding rituals and customs go on for several days.
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