Embark on a voyage of a lifetime with a trip to India that is sure to leave indelible impressions on you for all eternity. Bounded by the Himalayas in the north and the Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea on its east, south and west respectively, India is a paradise destination that is home to a varied landscape rich in natural resources. A unique country, India's diversity is reflected in each aspect of its lifestyle- be it religion, language, food habits or the wedding styles. The religious diversity can be best exemplified by the fact that India is home to 82% Hindus, 2,3% Christians, 2% Sikhs, 0.7% Sikhs, 0.4% Jains and a few thousands of Parsis and Jews apart from 12% of Muslims whose actual number far outstrips the Muslim population of Pakistan. Also, there are about 1500 Indian mother tongues all of which are in use till date.
The rich cultural history of India goes back to the 2500-1700 BC, right from the advent of the Indus Valley Civilization in 2500-1700 BC to the glorious Mughal period. Giving a strong example of its nationalism, India gained Independence from the British rule and since then it has seen its star ascending high in the horizon what with a strong vibrant economy.
The Indian climate is given to heavy variations, given its diverse topography. Generally the climate is said to be sub-tropical in nature and given to three main seasonal cycles- summers, rain and winters. Northern India is at its oppressive best in the months of May and June with the Himalayas providing the only escape route. The Indian coastline is on its best behavior during the months of November - March and is a terrific place to let down your hair.
Even though India has been showered with the sobriquet of 'Unity in Diversity', the people of India share common ethnic and cultural origins with their neighbors across the border, namely the inhabitants of Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka. The Indian population also shares some common physical features amongst themselves such as black hair and brown/black eyes along with brown skin, on an average.
As far as literature and arts are concerned, India can trace its roots back to Harappan Civilization, which have produced some amazing sculpted figures and seals. Literature comprising of sacred Hindu texts date back as far as 1500 to 1000 BC along with Sanskrit epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana. Indian architecture also flourished from the ancient times, as proved by the presence of stupas and other stone works believed to be dated around the time5637-4837 BC. Music and dance forms too flourished in India under the aegis of royal patronage, and still retains a strong hold in modern India with Bharatnatyam, Kathak, Manipuri, Kathakali, and dance forms still learnt and practiced by the people.
Indian philosophy is also decidedly advanced and well thought out. The Upanishads, written early in the 7th century carried the initial seeds of Indian philosophy, and the base for classical Indian philosophy to flourish. Writings such as Vedas, Bhagvad Gita and other Buddhist writings have helped shape up the philosophical outlook for India. No wonder, in today's chaotic modern times, people from all over the world are looking to India for spiritual enlightenment.
Travel to India and discover a whole new way of life. A country where the new exists with the old, a country, which absorbs and is influenced by the aspects of different cultures and yet manages to remain unique. Take part in the boisterous festivals such as Holi and Diwali, witness the different styles of weddings in India and partake of the spicy Indian food preparations- in short do as the Indians too for an invigorating experience of a lifetime.
Nikhil Bhide-The Wedding Planner is based in Mumbai, and offers wedding planning services for all of India, with a special focus on Mumbai and Goa.
Nikhil Bhide - The Wedding Planner offers information on Discover India and online booking for wedding planning services.
