The years and decades of India’s history and struggles, including its adoption of the traditions and ideas of neighbouring societies, have played a significant role in shaping Indian culture today. The nation also had been successful in preserving its heritage from the ancient time — predominantly formed throughout the Indus Valley Civilisation. Further, the civilisation evolved during the period of Vedas, Buddhism’s rise and decline, the Golden Age, Conquests of Muslims, and the colonisation of the Europeans. The vast diversity of India’s cultural and religious practises and traditions, languages, and family customs are apparent examples of the exceptional co-mingling of the nation’s culture over five millennia ago.
A number of famous Dharmic religions originated and flourished in India. These include Buddhism, Sikhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. The widespread amalgamations of these religions and practises have also influenced the cultures of other societies across the globe; thus it is one of the most religiously diverse countries on earth. In the life of many Indians, religion is still a definitive and central focus.
There are many languages spoken today in India. Over 10,000 groups of people speak 1000 languages; and there are yet other dialects spoken by a smaller number of people. When counted all together, including the remotest word or dialect spoken, 415 living existing languages are used by Indians today.
Indian culture is centred on the family. Marriages between a man and a woman are commonly arranged by parents; however, consent of both the bride and the groom is needed.