Table of Contents
About India
Namaste to India, a subcontinent of diversity, spirituality, and vibrant colors. From the bustling streets of Delhi to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, India is a place that knows how to embrace contrasts.
One of India’s treasures is its cuisine. Indian food is a symphony of spices and flavors, a journey for the taste buds. From fiery curries to delicate sweets, there’s something to satiate every palate.
India’s spirituality is a cornerstone of its identity. Yoga, meditation, and ancient practices like Ayurveda are embraced, promoting wellness and inner harmony.
And then there’s the rich tapestry of cultures and traditions. Each state has its own language, festivals, and customs, creating a vibrant mosaic of traditions.
So, savor some biryani, embrace the chaos, and get ready to be enchanted by the soul-stirring beauty and diversity of India!
Capital City
New Delhi
Head of State
President Droupadi Murmu (2022 to present)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi (2014 to present)
Government
federal parliamentary republic
Official Language(s)
Hindi 43.6%, Bengali 8%, Marathi 6.9%, Telugu 6.7%, Tamil 5.7%, Gujarati 4.6%, Urdu 4.2%, Kannada 3.6%, Odia 3.1%, Malayalam 2.9%, Punjabi 2.7%, Assamese 1.3%, Maithili 1.1%, other 5.6%; note – English enjoys the status of subsidiary official language.
Life Expectancy
67.69 years (2023) Male 65.95, female 69.61
Currency
Indian rupee (INR) ₹
Population
1,399,179,585 (2023 est.)
National Holiday
26 January (1950) “Republic Day”
Area
total: 3,287,263 sq km; land: 2,973,193 sq km; water: 314,070 sq km
Time Zone(s)
One time zone – Indian Standard Time (IST) UTC+05:30
Religion
Hindu 79.8%, Muslim 14.2%, Christian 2.3%, Sikh 1.7%, other and unspecified 2% (2011 est.)
Location
India, officially known as the Republic of India, is a vast and diverse country located in South Asia. It is the seventh-largest country in the world by land area, bordered by Pakistan to the northwest, China and Nepal to the north, Bhutan to the northeast, and Bangladesh and Myanmar to the east. To the south, India is bounded by the Indian Ocean, offering a rich coastline stretching over 7,000 kilometers. The Arabian Sea lies to the west of India. The country’s diverse geography includes the majestic Himalayas in the north, the expansive Thar Desert in the west, the fertile Gangetic plains, and the lush coastal areas. India’s location has influenced its rich history, culture, and interactions with neighboring countries, making it a melting pot of traditions and influences.
History
Ancient and Medieval Periods:
- Indus Valley Civilization (c. 3300–1300 BCE): One of the world’s earliest urban civilizations, with advanced urban planning and trade networks.
- Vedic Period (c. 1500–500 BCE): Arrival of Indo-Aryans, shaping early Hindu culture and society.
- Maurya and Gupta Empires (c. 322 BCE–550 CE): Flourishing of centralized empires, notable for achievements in governance, art, and mathematics.
Medieval Period and Invasions:
- Islamic Invasions (c. 8th–12th centuries): Arrival of Islam through invasions by Muslim conquerors.
- Delhi Sultanate (c. 1206–1526): Establishment of Islamic rule and cultural blending.
- Mughal Empire (c. 1526–1857): Heightened cultural achievements, including architecture, arts, and governance under Mughal rule.
Colonial Era and Independence:
- British East India Company (c. 1600–1858): British colonialism and economic exploitation, leading to the First War of Independence in 1857.
- British Raj (c. 1858–1947): Direct British rule and significant social, economic, and political changes.
- Independence and Partition (1947): India gained independence from British rule, leading to the division of India into two nations, India and Pakistan.
Post-Independence India:
- Republic of India (from 1950): Adoption of the Indian Constitution, establishing India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic.
- Modern Developments: Rapid industrialization, technological growth, and significant contributions in various fields on the global stage.
India’s history is vast and complex, marked by diverse cultures, religions, and civilizations. It has played a crucial role in shaping world history through its rich contributions to art, science, philosophy, and more.
Indian Flag
The Indian flag, also known as the “Tiranga” or the Tricolor, is a horizontal tricolor flag with three equal stripes – saffron (top), white (middle), and green (bottom) arranged from top to bottom respectively. A navy blue wheel with 24 equally spaced spokes called the “Ashoka Chakra” is at the center of the white stripe.
Saffron (Top Stripe): Represents courage, sacrifice, and the spirit of renunciation.
White (Middle Stripe): Signifies truth, peace, and purity.
Green (Bottom Stripe): Symbolizes faith, fertility, and chivalry.
Ashoka Chakra (Center): Derived from the Lion Capital of Ashoka, it represents the Wheel of Dharma, the continuous movement and growth of the nation.
The flag was designed by Pingali Venkayya and was adopted on July 22, 1947, just a few days before India gained independence from British rule. The Tricolor is a powerful symbol of India’s struggle for freedom, unity, and its rich cultural heritage.
Iconic Dishes
Biryani
A fragrant and flavorful rice dish cooked with spices, meat (often chicken, lamb, or beef), and basmati rice. Biryani is a celebration of rich Indian flavors and techniques.
Tandoori Chicken
Chicken marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices, then cooked in a tandoor (clay oven). It’s known for its smoky flavor and tender texture.
Paneer Tikka
Cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) marinated in a spiced yogurt mixture and grilled or cooked in a tandoor. It’s a popular vegetarian appetizer.
Masala Dosa
A fermented crepe made from rice batter and black lentils, filled with a spiced potato mixture. Served with chutney and sambar, it’s a beloved South Indian breakfast.
Chole Bhature
A North Indian dish consisting of spicy chickpea curry (chole) served with deep-fried bread (bhature). It’s a flavorful and hearty meal.
Butter Chicken
A rich and creamy tomato-based curry with marinated chicken. It’s a delicious and indulgent North Indian dish, often enjoyed with naan or rice.
Samosa
Deep-fried pastry pockets filled with a savory mixture of spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat. Samosas are a popular snack across India.
Rice and Curry
A staple meal in many parts of India, consisting of rice served with a variety of curries, which could include vegetables, lentils, or meat.
Rogan Josh
A flavorful and aromatic Kashmiri curry made with tender pieces of meat, usually lamb, cooked in a rich and spicy gravy.
Gulab Jamun
Deep-fried milk-based dumplings soaked in a sugar syrup, resulting in sweet, soft, and delectable dessert balls.
Ras Malai
Soft, spongy cottage cheese dumplings soaked in sweet, flavored milk (often flavored with cardamom and saffron). Ras Malai is a popular Indian dessert, known for its delicate texture and rich taste.
These iconic Indian dishes showcase the diverse and vibrant flavors of the country, making Indian cuisine a delight for food enthusiasts worldwide.
https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/germany/
