Culture of India Essay Example

Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. South of these mountains lies a low-lying Indo-Gangetic Plain that stretches over 1,500 miles (2,400 kilometers) from the Arabian Sea to the Bay of Bengal. This plain is shared with Pakistan and Bangladesh. Finally, there is a peninsular tableland known as Deccan along with its adjacent coastal plains which make up more than half of India's total area.

The climate in India is primarily influenced by monsoon rain-bearing wind patterns. The country generally experiences three seasons: hot season, wet season, and cool season. During the hot season from early March to mid-June, high temperatures prevail accompanied by intermittent winds and occasional dust storms. Strong humid winds from southwest and south often persist during this time period. Certain regions receive heavy rainfall annually such as far northeast areas (north and east of Bangladesh), northern West Bengal, and parts of west coast stretching from Cochin to north Bombay where rainfall exceeds 80 inches (200 centimeters). The soil in these areas remains moist throughout the year due to abundant rainfall.The natural vegetation in India is a lush rain forest with tall, dense trees that remain green throughout the year. However, this rain forest has been largely destroyed by the tribal population of India for slash-and-burn farming, resulting in less fertile soil. The regrown forest is generally shorter and more closed compared to its original state.

The original inhabitants of India are believed to have shared characteristics with Australia's aboriginal population and other tribal groups in Southeast Asia. These indigenous people, known as proto-Australoid, still reside in Bihar, Orissa, and Madhya Pradesh states. Another early group that arrived in India were the ancestors of people living mainly

in southern India who speak Dravidian languages.

Mongoloid peoples have a long history in India and their present-day descendants live along the frontiers with Myanmar, China (Tibet), Bhutan, and Nepal. Linguistic differences are more noticeable than racial groupings. There are two main linguistic groups - Indo-Aryan and Dravidian.

The majority of the Indian population consists of various groups who predominantly speak Hindi, which is considered the most important language. Around 43 percent of the population speaks Hindi while many others understand it well. Its usage is primarily concentrated in the northern and central regions.

Urdu, a variation of Hindi, is recognized as an official language in the Indian constitution and also serves as Pakistan's official language.Other significant Indo-Aryan languages, such as Bengali, Panjabi, Marathi, Gujarati, Oriya, Assamese, and Kashmiri, are officially recognized in different Indian states. According to the constitution, Sanskrit and Sindhi also hold official status. Sanskrit is a classical literary language while Sindhi is primarily spoken in Pakistan's Sindh province and by Hindu refugees who migrated to India after partition in 1947.

In addition to these languages, there are four Dravidian languages: Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada. These are mainly spoken in Andhra Pradesh,Tamil Nadu,Kerala,and Karnataka respectively.

Although not among the 15 official languages of India, English is widely understood by educated individuals and has official recognition for correspondence between Hindi-speaking and non-Hindi-speaking states. Furthermore,it serves as a common language for both the Dravidian-speaking south and the Hindi-speaking north region.

Many Adibasis belonging to various tribal groups speak languages that are not officially recognized.

India has a tolerant social climate where multiple religions coexist. Hinduism is the most widely practiced religion with approximately 80% of the population adhering to

it. It originated from Vedism followed by early Aryan invaders and recognizes multiple deities as manifestations of a universal spirit.The text discusses the incorporation of individual religious practices known as dharma in Hinduism, which lacks a standardized orthodox form. The caste system within Hinduism varies depending on regions and social groups. Jatis or castes are hereditary groups that marry only within their own caste and hold significant importance for Hindus. Each caste has its own origin story, traditional occupation, kinship rules, dietary guidelines, and behavioral norms. These castes are hierarchically arranged in society and participate in rituals where lower castes show respect to higher ones while expecting respect from lower ones.

Despite causing inequalities, most Hindus do not view the caste system as unjust because they believe in reincarnation determining one's caste based on accumulated karma from past lives. Accepting one's current position and living accordingly is seen as the key to achieving a higher status in future lives. This path can ultimately lead to moksha - salvation or liberation from the continuous cycle of rebirths.

In India, Muslims make up 11% of the population as the largest religious minority. Many trace their ancestry back to invaders from the Middle East and Central Asia who entered India starting in the 8th century. However, a majority of Indian Muslims converted from Hinduism and other religions. Most Indian Muslims belong to the Sunnah branch of Islam, though there is also a significant representation of the Shi'ah sect among Muslim trading groups in Gujarat.
Despite the emphasis on equality in Islam, the caste system still has an influence on Muslim communities and other faiths in India. This leads many Indian Muslims

to marry within their castelike groups that typically have traditional occupations. Jammu and Kashmir have a predominantly Muslim population, while Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Assam, and Kerala have significant Muslim minorities. Sikhs make up 2.6 percent of India's population and are mainly concentrated in the Punjab region. Sikhism was established in the early 16th century and incorporates elements from Hinduism, such as belief in reincarnation, along with beliefs borrowed from Islam that strictly focus on monotheism. Sikhs can be easily identified by their distinctive beards and turbans. They hold a strong presence in India's army and also wield influence in various professions and government positions.

In Indian households, joint families often consist of multiple married couples. The responsibility for domestic chores is usually given to women and girls by the senior female figure – whether it is the wife, mother or another related senior woman. Generally speaking, an extended family may include the man's unmarried children, his younger brothers with their spouses and unmarried children, his unmarried sisters as well as his married sons and grandsons along with their spouses and unmarried children. After the father's death, brothers often separate to establish their own households.
In most parts of India, except the south and northeast, it is common for a girl to marry outside her village at a young age or move to her husband's household if she marries within her village. Society discourages widow remarriage and couples often prefer having male children due to their potential contribution to family income and for performing specific rituals during a parent's cremation. However, girls are seen as burdens because of the expensive dowries required when they get married. Despite

efforts by state governments to discourage this practice, families often go into debt in order to provide dowries. Families with multiple daughters and no sons may face financial difficulties. In traditional Indian society, boys are expected to assist with agricultural work while girls primarily handle domestic tasks. However, once girls reach puberty, their freedom becomes restricted and female seclusion is common in northern India even among Hindus (New World Encyclopedia). The majority of villagers in India are farmers who own land; however, many have to rent either all or part of the land they work on. This rental can be paid using cash or a predetermined share of the harvest depending on factors such as who covers the costs for seeds and irrigation water, as well as who provides the animals for plowing. Typically, this share ranges from one third to one half of the total harvest. Many families, particularly those from scheduled castes, do not possess any land at all.Consequently, both adults and children must engage in labor for larger farmers. A majority of Indian farmers rely on simple tools that are often crafted within their villages. Plows, made from wood with short iron tips, can create furrows but cannot turn the soil. Oxen are commonly used as draft animals in drier regions, while water buffalo are preferred in wetter regions where rice is cultivated. Cattle and water buffalo both produce milk, although the amount is relatively low (New World Encyclopedia). Transportation in rural areas primarily consists of ox carts or buffalo carts, with an increasing use of trucks due to road improvements. The use of tractors for cultivation is uncommon except in Haryana

and Punjab. Goods and services that cannot be obtained locally are acquired from nearby villages, weekly outdoor markets, towns and cities, or fairs held during religious holidays. Payment for these goods and services can either be made in cash or through bartering. In the past, it was customary to pay with a portion of grain during harvest time. The jajmani system - which involved specialized-caste families serving specific patron families connected by hereditary ties - is declining throughout India; however, patron-client relationships between different castes still exist in village life. Most villages have a primary school that provides up to six years of education with some also offering evening adult education classesIn many villages, traditional medicine practitioners are common, while government-aided dispensaries are becoming more prevalent. Socializing activities vary based on gender and caste. Men gather with fellow caste members or those of similar social status for smoking and chatting, while women and girls converse at the village well and may join singing groups. Male youths frequently form sports clubs or drama groups. Village-owned radios are commonly found, but television remains rare in rural areas (Compton's).

To bring excitement to their lives, various performers such as traveling storytellers, musicians, acrobats, and snake charmers entertain the villagers during events like weddings, religious celebrations, local fairs, and occasional religious pilgrimages.

On January 26th, 1950, India's current constitution came into effect. This transformed the nation from a dominion to a federal republic while still being part of the Commonwealth. The governor-general has been replaced by an elected president chosen through an electoral college. Although the president's role as chief of state is mostly symbolic, it holds official significance.

The governance of

villages is entrusted to a democratically elected council called a panchayat led by a village headman. In the past, these councils were dominated by upper-caste men who owned significant amounts of land; however many states now require representation from women and scheduled castes in the council.Secret ballot elections are increasingly utilized for this purpose. The panchayats collaborate with the government's Community Development Program, which divides the country into community development blocks. Each block comprises approximately one hundred villages, and village-level workers act as intermediaries between the government and villagers. They inform villagers about beneficial developments and relay their sentiments back to the government.

India is renowned for its rich artistic and literary heritage, particularly its architectural masterpieces. These impressive structures represent different historical periods. In the mid-3rd century BC, Emperor Asoka likely initiated the construction of the ancient Buddhist domed stupa at Sanchi. In Ellora, an awe-inspiring Kailasa Temple was intricately carved out of solid rock in the 8th century. The 13th-century Sun Temple at Konarak and the 16th-century Minakshi Temple in Madurai are both artistically crafted and impressive.

Considered a masterpiece, the Taj Mahal was built in Agra during the 17th century as a mausoleum for Shah Jahan's favorite wife. India's artistic heritage is diverse, with each major region and religious group producing remarkable works. Hindu and Jaina temples are known for intricate sculptures, while mosques incorporate inlaid stonework, decorative tiles, geometric designs, and ornate calligraphy due to Islamic opposition to representational art.

Over time, Indian paintings have suffered weather-related deteriorationIndia has a rich cultural heritage spanning nearly 2,000 years that includes various art forms such as architecture, music, dance, and literature. Early technical excellence can be

seen in well-preserved cave paintings at Ajanta from the 1st century BC to the 7th century AD. Various schools of miniature painting thrived under Mughal courts and Rajput princes' patronage characterized by a lyric and romantic style. Modern painting in India draws inspiration from European and Far Eastern models while gaining international recognition.

Classical Indian music, dance, and drama are closely intertwined. These art forms have regional styles similar to architecture. Folk music and dance also exhibit regional variations.

Indian literature covers a wide range of subjects, with a particular focus on religious and philosophical texts. The Vedas, the oldest religious texts, were initially transmitted orally before being written down. In Hinduism, the 'Ramayana' and 'Mahabharata' are highly significant epics. The 'Ramayana' provides examples of proper conduct while the 'Mahabharata' tells the tale of a mythical war involving all ancient Indian peoples.

Within the Mahabharata is the 'Bhagavadgita', an important Hindu text on morality and ethics. In Indian Muslim literature, practical subjects are covered due to limitations in religious speculation caused by the authority of the Koran (Compton's).The Concise Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, available on their website as of November 1st, 1999 (http://comptonsv3.web.aol.com/ceo99-cgi/article?'fastweb?getdoc+viewcomptons+A+3993+35++India'.html), provides information about India. The New World Encyclopedia, published in New York by Pelican in 1995, also contains information about India. The Modern Language Association (MLA) offers information about India on their website at http://www.mla.org/set_stl.htm, last updated on October 23rd, 1999. Officially known as the Republic of India and with its capital in New Delhi, the name "India" comes from the Sanskrit term Sindhu referring to the Indus River. In 1950, India adopted its national emblem from Sarnath Lion Capital of Asoka. This emblem features a

wheel surrounded by four lions standing back to back at the center of the abacus. There are additional wheels with a depiction of a bull on the right and a horse on the left. Below the wheel are words in Devanagari script that say "Satyameva jayate," meaning "Truth Alone Triumphs." The national anthem of India is called "Jana Gana Mana," which translates to "Lord of People, Society, and Mind." Geographically, India has a coastline spanning 3,533 miles (5,686 kilometers) and a land frontier covering 9,425 miles (15,168 kilometers). It consists of three main natural regions: the Himalaya mountains range,the Indo-Gangetic Plain,and Deccan plateau.India is home to several notable mountain ranges, including the Himalayas, Karakoram, Vindbya, Avaralli Satpura, and Western and Eastern Ghats. These ranges feature famous peaks such as Nanda Devi (25,646 feet or 7,817 meters), Kamet (25,447 feet or 7,756 meters), and Anai Mudi (8 ,842 feet or 2 ,695 meters). The country also boasts major rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna (Jumna), Brahmaputra,Narbada,Mahanadi,Gadavari,and Kaveri. Additionally, India possesses significant geographical features such as Wular Lake and islands like Andaman,Nicobar,and Lakshadweep.

In terms of climate, India can be divided into three seasons: the cold season from November to February,the hot season from March to June,and the rainy season from June to October. As of 1996 population statistics indicated an estimated population of 952,969,000 people in India. The population density was calculated at 733.1 persons per square mile (288.8 persons per square kilometer). Urban areas accounted for 26.8% while rural areas accounted for 73.2%. Vital statistics showed a birth rate of 26.5 per 1,000 population and a death rate of 9.8 per 1,000 population.Life expectancy at birth was

reported as 58.7 years for males and slightly higher at 59.8 years for females.

India's linguistic landscape is diverse with several major languages spoken including Hindi (official), English (official), Telugu,Bengali Marathi Tamil Urdu Gujarati Malayalam Kannada Oriya Punjabi AssameseIn terms of religion, major religions in India include Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Zoroastrianism. Some notable cities in India are Bombay (9,,925,,891), Delhi(7,,206,,704), Calcutta(4,,399,,819), and Madras(3,,841,,396). These cities hold significance as ports or serve as political, educational, cultural, and commercial centers within the country. Now known as Chennai, Madras serves as the capital of Tamil Nadu state in India. It is home to prestigious institutions such as the Indian Institute of Technology and the University of Madras. Chennai is recognized as a leading cultural, educational, industrial,publishing,and transportation center in south India with attractions like the Madras Government Museum,Napier Park ,Marina beach,and Corporation Stadium.Bangalore is the capital of Karnataka state with a population of 3..302..296 people.It is renowned for being a significant cultural hub in south India and serves as an important center for education industry,and transportation.The city boasts landmarks like Vidhana Saudha,Mysore Government Museum,Lal Bagh,and Hesaraghatta Lake.Hyderabad serves as the capital of Andhra Pradesh state with a population of 3..145939 individuals.Hyderabad is renowned for its significance in education, culture, industry, commerce, and handicrafts. The city's prominent landmarks include Char Minar, Mecca Masjid, Salar Jung Museum, and the racecourse.

Ahmadabad has a population of 2,,954526 individuals and is recognized as an industrial commercial financial and educational center. It is widely known as a major cotton-textile hub. Some notable landmarks in Ahmadabad are Lake Kankaria, Gandhi Ashram, Jama Masjid, Tin Darwaza (Three Gates), and the Tomb of Ahmad

Shah.

Kanpur is famous for its railway and lead junction facilities. With a population of 1,879420 individuals, it serves as an industrial and commercial center. Kanpur also houses institutions like Kanpur University and the Indian Institute of Technology.

Nagpur offers attractions such as a Hindu glass temple, cantonment area,and Sati Chaura.Itis acknowledged as a transportation ,industrial ,educational ,agricultural,and cultural hub.Some significant landmarks in Nagpur include the British Fort,Ambajheri Tank,Bhonsla Palace,Kasturchand Park,and the Secretariat.

Lucknow functions as both the capital of Uttar Pradesh state and a transportation ,commercial ,educational,cultural,and handicraft center.Noteworthy attractions in Lucknow comprise Hazratganj,the Great Imambara,Rumi Darwaza Residency Botanical Gardens,and Zoological Gardens.

Pune serves as an educational,cultural ,commercial,and industrial center with a population of 1 566 651 individuals.Significant landmarks in Pune include Empress Gardens, Wellesley Bridge, Deccan College, Statue of Shivaji, Shanwar Wada (Saturday Palace). In terms of economy: Chief Agricultural Products in India include crops such as sugarcane, rice, wheat, corn (maize), sorghum, millet, mangoes ,bananas ,oranges lemons limes apples oilseeds pulses coconuts. Livestock consists of cattle goats water buffalo sheep. Chief Mined Products are limestone iron ore bauxite manganese chromium zinc copper lead gold diamonds coal crude petroleum natural gas. Chief Manufactured Products include cement finished steel steel ingots refined sugar fertilizers paper and paperboard bicycles motorcycles scooters cotton cloth- Imports account for 59 percent of India's foreign trade, while exports make up the remaining 41 percent.- The chief imports in India include fuel oil and refined petroleum products, chemicals, fertilizers, iron and steel, machinery vegetables oils rough diamonds transport equipment electrical machinery,and foodstuffs.- Handicrafts engineering goods tea fish fruits and vegetables coffee,textile yarn and fabrics,clothing leather precious and semi-precious stones iron ore road motor vehicles

works of art tobacco iron and steel are some of the chief exports from India. The United States (US), United Kingdom (UK), Japan Germany Saudi Arabia are India's main trading partners. In India,"1 Indian rupee is equal to 100 paisa." EDUCATION - Lower primary education (age 6-10) is provided free nationwide.Secondary education (age 11-17) is mostly free across the country, except for Nagaland and Himachal Pradesh states where it differs slightly. The compulsory school age in all other Indian states is from 6 to 14 years old. The literacy rate in India stands at approximately 52 percent.

Some leading universities in India include Calcutta University, Bombay University, Madras University, Allahabad University, Benaras Hindu University, Mysore University, Patna University, and Osmania University.

Notable Libraries:
- Central Secretariat Library located in New Delhi
- National Library situated in Calcutta
- Indian Council of World Affairs Library based in New Delhi
- Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Public Library situated in Patna

Notable Museums and Art Galleries:
- Prince of Wales Museum of Western India, Bombay
- Birla Industrial and Technological Museum, Calcutta
- Indian Museum, Calcutta
- National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi
- Government Museum and National Art Gallery, Madras

GOVERNMENT
Form of Government: Republic.
Constitution: Effective Jan.26 ,1950.
Chief of State: President; elected by electoral college ,5-year term.
Head of Government: Prime Minister.
Legislature: Parliament - Council of States (Rajya Sabha) consists of not more than 250 members elected for 6 years; House of the People (Lok Sabha) consists of not more than 545 members elected for 6 years.
Executive: President ,vice-president,and Council of Ministers headed by the prime minister to advise the president.The President holds the supreme command of the defense forces. The Supreme Court, subject to the constitution, serves as the ultimate

authority and consists of a chief justice and up to 17 other judges appointed by the president. Members of the judiciary serve until they reach the age of 65. Additionally, there are High Courts, Courts of Session, and Courts Magistrates in place. The country is divided into 25 states, 6 union territories, and 1 national capital territory (Delhi). The voting qualification is set at 21 years.