This presentation shows us about the background of Indian Culture many years ago.

1. Background of Indian Culture

2. Introduction
Ever wonder where the vibrant Indian culture comes from?
Its roots run deep, spanning over 4,000 years of history in the making.
India’s culture is a rich tapestry woven from a variety of influences
that came together in a melting pot of diversity.
The ancient Indus Valley civilization, the Aryans, the Greeks, and
Mughals all left their mark.
But through it all, India’s culture has endured, passed down through
the ages in stories, songs, and traditions.

3. 1
Indus Valley
Civilization
Buddhism
And Jainism
Delhi
Sultanate
British
Empire
Cultural
Institutions
Vedic Age Gupta
Empire
Mughal
Empire
Independence and
Partition

4. The Indus Valley Civilization
flourished between 3300 and 1300
BCE in the northwestern region of
South Asia. This ancient civilization
laid the foundation for many aspects
of modern Indian culture.
The Indus Valley settlers lived in
well-planned cities with advanced
infrastructure, including a sewage
system. They traded with
Mesopotamia and ancient Egypt,
exchanging goods like cotton, rice,
copper, and gold.
Indus Valley Civilization : Foundation of Modern Indian
Culture

5. Indus Valley Civilization : Foundation of Modern Indian
Culture
Role of Religion in the Indus Valley Civilization : Religion in the ancient Indus Valley centered on
fertility and the mother goddess. Seals and figurines depicted her importance, influencing later
Hinduism. Despite an undeciphered script, archaeological findings suggest cultural continuity and
strong communication networks among cities.
Development of Cultural Traditions and Beliefs : After the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization,
its cultural traditions persisted and transformed during the Vedic period. The worship of the
mother goddess evolved into the veneration of deities like Parvati and Durga in Hinduism. This
cultural amalgamation, evident in ancient sites, laid the foundation for enduring practices that
continue to shape Indian society.

6. Vedic Age: Emergence of Hinduism and Caste System In
Indian Culture
The Vedic Age, spanning from roughly
1500 BCE to 500 BCE, saw the rise of
Hinduism as a major world religion and
the establishment of the caste system in
India.
The Vedas, a collection of hymns,
chants, and rituals, were composed
during this time and form the
foundation of Hindu belief. They
introduced core tenets like karma,
dharma, and reincarnation.

7. Vedic Age: Emergence of Hinduism and Caste System In
Indian Culture
The Caste System : The caste system in ancient India determined one's occupation and social
status by birth, prohibiting inter-caste marriage and mobility. While it brought social order, it also
led to oppression. The Vedic religion, centered on rituals and sacrifices to gods like Indra, Agni,
and Varuna, transmitted orally before being recorded in script.
Religious Movement during Vedic Period : The later Vedic period witnessed the emergence of
movements like Jainism and Buddhism, rejecting the Vedas and caste system. Hinduism, however,
persisted, adapting to diverse influences and spreading across the subcontinent. The Vedic Age
laid the foundation for Indian philosophy, spirituality, social structure, and literature, shaping
Hinduism and Indian culture today. Understanding this era provides insights into the intricate
fabric of Indian civilization.

8. Rise of Buddhism and Jainism: New Belief Systems Emerge
in Indian Culture
The rise of Buddhism and
Jainism around 500 BCE
introduced new belief
systems that shaped Indian
culture. These religions
emerged at a time of social
upheaval when people
questioned the rigid caste
system and elaborate Vedic
rituals of Hinduism

9. Rise of Buddhism and Jainism: New Belief Systems Emerge
in Indian Culture
Buddhism : Founded by Gautama Buddha, Buddhism preaches the "middle way" to end suffering
through moral conduct and meditation. It spread rapidly, building stupas and monasteries. While
declining in India, Buddhism thrived in other Asian countries.
Jainism : Founded by Mahavira, Jainism emphasizes non-violence, self-control, and non-
attachment. Jains practice ahimsa, influencing Indian culture with values of simplicity and
harmony.
Common Beliefs: Buddhism and Jainism, despite differences, shared core tenets shaping Indian
culture: ahimsa (non-violence), asceticism, karma and rebirth, and the pursuit of liberation. These
beliefs enriched Indian culture and encouraged introspection and spiritual quests, alongside the
majority religion, Hinduism.

10. The Golden Age of Indian Culture: Achievements of the
Gupta Empire
The Gupta Empire, which lasted from 320 to 550
CE, is often referred to as the “Golden Age” of
India. During this time, the Guptas oversaw a
flourishing of arts, science, and culture.

11. Mathematics and Astronomy in Gupta Period : Gupta mathematicians advanced geometry,
algebra, and introduced the decimal system with zero. Astronomers proposed solar system
theories close to modern science.
Sanskrit Literature in Gupta Era : The Gupta period witnessed a literary renaissance in Sanskrit.
Kalidasa's dramas and epics like "Abhijnana Shakuntalam," along with works like Panchatantra and
Kamasutra, showcased cultural richness.
Medicine Advancements in Gupta Period : Ayurvedic medicine thrived, identifying medicinal
plants and conducting surgeries like cataract removal and plastic surgery.
Art and Architecture in Gupta Empire : Gupta artisans excelled in painting, sculpture, and temple
architecture. The period saw the rise of the iconic "Nagara" temple style.
The Golden Age of Indian Culture: Achievements of the
Gupta Empire

12. The Delhi Sultanate: Introduction of Persian Culture to
Indian Culture
The Delhi Sultanate marked a turning point in
Indian cultural influences. From 1206 to 1526,
five dynasties of Turkic and Afghan sultans ruled
from Delhi, bringing Persian cultural traditions
with them.

13. Persian Language in Delhi Sultanate : Persian became the official language, influencing historical
works and architecture in Delhi.
Sufi Islam Spread : Sufi missionaries introduced a mystical form of Islam, blending poetry, music,
and dance in Delhi. Conversion and a synthesis of Hindu-Muslim beliefs followed.
Artistic Fusion : Persian arts like miniature painting and calligraphy thrived, influencing
manuscripts, carpet weaving, and architecture in the Delhi Sultanate.
The Persian cultural imprint during the Delhi Sultanate left a lasting impact, shaping Indian art,
religion, and identity for centuries.
The Delhi Sultanate: Introduction of Persian Culture to
Indian Culture

14. The Mughal Empire: Blending of Persian and Indian
Culture & Traditions
The Mughal Empire ruled over much
of the Indian subcontinent from
1526 to 1858. Under the Mughals, a
unique culture developed that
blended Persian and Indian
influences.

15. The Mughal Empire: Blending of Persian and Indian
Culture & Traditions
The Mughals : Descendants of Timur, the Mughal rulers from Central Asia brought Persian
influences but embraced Indian traditions. Emperors like Akbar promoted Hindu arts and
architecture, as seen in the Taj Mahal's blend of Persian and Indian designs.
Mughal Impact on Indian Culture : In music, the Mughals introduced instruments like the sitar and
tabla, fostering new forms like khayal singing. Literature thrived in Persian, Hindi, and vernacular
languages. Mughal cuisine innovated by blending Persian and North Indian styles, introducing
popular dishes like biryani and kebabs.
The Mughal legacy, despite their decline, deeply influenced Indian culture. The fusion of traditions
during their rule became integral to Indian heritage, shaping a lasting Indo-Persian culture in North
India.

16. British Raj: Influence of Western Culture on Indian Culture
The British Raj, from 1858 to
1947, marked an era of
major cultural influence on
India from the West. The
British brought with them
new customs, beliefs, and
technologies that shaped
Indian society in lasting
ways.

17. British Raj: Influence of Western Culture on Indian Culture
Education in British Raj : Under British rule, education transformed with Western-style schools.
English proficiency opened job opportunities, and English remains an official language.
Architectural Growth in British Raj : British introduced new styles, fashion, and cricket, now India's
most popular sport.
After Effects on Indian Culture : Post-independence, British rule left a lasting imprint, blending
Western influences with Indian traditions. This cultural fusion, marked by openness to new ideas
and pride in traditions, defines modern India.

18. Independence and Partition: Defining Modern India &
Indian Culture
The independence of India in 1947
was both a moment of triumph and
tragedy. After nearly 200 years of
British rule, India finally gained
freedom. However, independence
came at the cost of partition – the
division of British India into the
separate nations of India and
Pakistan.

19. Independence and Partition: Defining Modern India &
Indian Culture
Partition's Impact on Indian Culture : Partition displaced millions, creating India and Pakistan.
Mass migration caused violence and bloodshed, shaping modern identities. India embraced secular
democracy, but scars contribute to Hindu-Muslim tensions.
India - World's Largest Democracy : Despite a tumultuous birth, India endures as the world's
largest democracy. Diverse cultures and traditions reflect an ancient history. The spirit of India
persists.

20. Cultural Institutions: Preserving an Ancient Yet Vibrant
Culture
Cultural institutions have
played an important role in
preserving and promoting
India’s ancient yet vibrant
culture. Museums, art
galleries, and heritage sites
allow you to discover the rich
tapestry of India’s cultural
heritage.

21. Cultural Institutions: Preserving an Ancient Yet Vibrant
Culture
● Museums
● Art Galleries
● Heritage Sites
● Cultural Centers
Cultural institutions play a pivotal role in educating Indians about their cultural heritage and
sharing it with the world. By preserving ancient artifacts, promoting contemporary arts, and
hosting cultural events, these institutions strengthen the continuity of India’s living cultural
traditions. At the same time, they highlight how Indian culture has adapted to modern times,
keeping it a vibrant part of people’s lives.

22. Indian
Cultural
Unity and Diversity

23. ● Being home to 1.38 billion people, India accommodates interesting cultural diversity
between languages, religious traditions, geographical regions, ethnicity, and festivals.
● Indian culture is, therefore, the Indian way of life. Because of the population diversity, there
is immense diversity in Indian culture.
● It is an amalgamation of various cultures belonging to different religions that follow their
own cultures and traditions.
● Indian culture is among the oldest cultures in the world. India had an urban civilization even
during the Bronze era. The Indus Valley Civilization, popularly known as Harappan
Civilization, dates back to 3300 BC - 1300 BC.

24. Geographical Diversity
● India’s geography is diverse, ranging from snow-capped mountain ranges, deserts, plains, hills,
plateaus, to coastal regions.
● The Himalayas, situated in the northern part, are the world's largest mountain range, the source
of major rivers like Ganga, Yamuna, Indus, and Godavari. They hold religious significance and
serve vital purposes such as irrigation and transportation.
● The Thar Desert in the west and the Indian Ocean, Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea, tropical jungles,
coastal plains, and beaches in the south contribute to India’s varied landscapes.
● Major metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata represent India's rapid
economic and technological advancements on the global stage.
● These urban hubs stand in contrast to smaller towns and villages, each fostering unique micro
societies where regional pride and identity are prevalent.

25. Linguistic Diversity

26. Linguistic Diversity
Language Diversity: India has approximately 121 languages and over 19,500 dialects, with 22
major languages recognized by the Constitution and the rest confined to specific regions.
Languages in the Eighth Schedule: The Constitution recognizes 22 major languages, including
Hindi, Bengali, Telugu, Marathi, Tamil, Urdu, and others.
Official Languages: Hindi, based on Devanagari script, is the official language, alongside Telugu
and English, the latter used for commercial and governmental purposes.
Linguistic Identity: India is renowned as the third-largest English language publisher globally and
the seventh-largest book publishing country overall, producing over 80,000 new titles annually
in 24 languages.

27. Religious Diversity

28. Religious Diversity
Religious Diversity: India's preamble declares it a secular nation, offering freedom of religion. The
population is predominantly Hindu (80.45%), with significant Muslim (13.43%), Christian (2.34%),
Sikh (1.86%), and other religious (2%) communities.
Major Religions: Hinduism is practiced by 80% of Indians, followed by Christianity, Buddhism,
Jainism, and Zoroastrianism.
Cultural Celebrations: Festivals like Durga Puja in West Bengal, Christmas, and Baisakhi in
Punjab represent the diversity and vibrancy of Indian culture.

29. Religious Diversity
Religious Influence: Hinduism and Islam have a widespread presence across India, impacting
architecture, culture, art, and society. Sufism, a mystical strain of Islam, holds popularity, with
Sufi dance events attracting crowds. Sunni Muslims are predominant, with significant Shi'ite
minorities, notably in Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Kerala.
Regional Concentrations: Sikhs are mainly concentrated in Punjab, while Buddhists are
prominent in Maharashtra. Christian populations are prevalent in Southern states like Kerala,
Tamil Nadu, and Meghalaya.

30. Ethnic Diversity
Ethnic Diversity: India is a multiethnic country, housing numerous ethnic and tribal groups. The
diversity extends across cuisine, handicrafts, languages, clothing, music, and dance forms.
Dance & Music: India showcases diverse dance forms, including popular classical dances like
Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kathakali, and Manipuri, alongside folk dances such as Chhau, Rouf,
Padayani, Dollu Kunitha, Dandiya, and Bihu, performed during festivals and cultural events.

31. Ethnic Diversity
Music Diversity: Indian music reflects the country's cultural diversity with various forms like folk
music, ghazals, Shayari, and more, differing across regions and religions.
Clothing Variation: Traditional clothing varies regionally, influenced by local culture, geography,
and climate. Women's attire includes ghagra-choli (Rajasthan), pheran (Jammu and Kashmir),
Mekhala Chador (Assam), and ghagri with orni (Uttrakhand), while men wear dhoti, kurta, salwar-
kameez, and turbans.

32. Indian Festivals

33. Indian Festivals
Diversity in Festivals: India boasts a myriad of festivals, each specific to various religions, regions,
castes, and cultures, providing a rich tapestry of celebrations throughout the year.
National Days: Several national days, including Gandhi Jayanti, Republic Day, Children's Day, and
Independence Day, are celebrated across the country with immense enthusiasm and patriotic
fervor.
Top Festivals: Among the multitude of festivals celebrated in India, some of the prominent ones
include Diwali (Festival of Lights), Holi (Festival of Colors), Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha (Islamic
festivals), Christmas (Christian festival), Navratri (Hindu festival), Durga Puja (Bengali festival),
Pongal (Tamil harvest festival), and Onam (Kerala festival), among others.

34. What have we learnt ?

35. Unity and Diversity
● India is a place with lots of different things like languages, religions, ways of doing things,
clothes, dances, and music.
● Even though there are lots of differences, there's a feeling of togetherness that holds
everything together.
● People from different backgrounds coming together has made Indian culture a mix of many
things, which makes it unique.
● Many groups of people have added their own special things to Indian culture over a long
time.

36. Continuity and Change
● Indian culture has stayed the same in some ways even as things changed a lot over time.
● Things from very old times, like the Harappan civilization, are still part of how some people
do things today.
● Indian culture changes and grows, but it always keeps its main ideas and values.
● Even with big changes happening sometimes, the important parts of Indian culture don’t go
away.

37. Variety and Unity
● Different parts of India have different foods, clothes, buildings, and ways of life because of
the land and weather.
● People from different groups coming together have made lots of different languages, stories,
art, and how they pray.
● Even though there are so many differences, India still feels like one country because
everyone has something in common.
● You can see this mix of different things in Indian art, stories, and how people live in different
parts of the country.

38. Secular Outlook
● People of different religions in India live peacefully together.
● The rules of the country make sure that everyone can follow their own religion freely.
● Indians believe in letting others live their way and getting along peacefully.

39. Global Perspective
● India likes being friends with other countries and wants peace for everyone.
● India speaks up against unfairness and bad treatment of people because of their race or when
one country takes control of another.
● India helps other countries that need help, showing it wants to be a good part of the world.

40. Thank You !