It’s understandable why so many travelers consider India to be on their bucket list! Mumbai and Varanasi offer a diverse landscape, vibrant festivals, and fiery cuisine that are incentive enough to pack your bags and travel there.
Whether you’ve never been to IND or you’re just captivated by it, these 10 fascinating facts about the nation may surprise you.
1. India was the first country to mine diamonds
For about a millennium, starting from the 4th century BC, India was the world’s exclusive supplier of diamonds. The Krishna River Delta is where the original diamonds were discovered.
More diamond deposits were found in South Africa and Brazil in the 18th century, which expanded the market for diamonds.
2. The world’s oldest religion is Hinduism, which is not a true polytheism.
Based on records extending back to 5,500 BCE, Hindus holds the title of being the world’s oldest religion.
Hindus has no recognised founder, and since it is a way of life, nobody is interested in finding out.
Hindus currently practiced by over a billion people worldwide, making it the third largest religion.
In terms of gods, Hinduism is not a monotheistic religion. Hindus hold that there is only one god, Brahma, who takes the form of thousands of different gods.
The Trimurti is composed of two other gods in addition to the primary deity, Brahma. The universe was created by Brahma, it is preserved by Vishnu, and Shiva destroys the world in order to recreate it.
Which god a Hindu chooses to worship is up to them.
Here’s another interesting fact about Hinduism: according to Hindus, the number 108 is extremely sacred.
It is the ratio of the Sun’s diameter to its distance from Earth, as well as the ratio of the Moon’s diameter to its distance from Earth.
3. IND has 22 recognized languages
IND is a country where many languages are spoken, including Bengali, Tamil, Santali, and Urdu. Hindi and English are the official languages, though.
Given that the majority of Indian’s speak both English and their native language for ease of communication, India is home to the second-largest population of English speakers in the world, behind only the United States.
Sanskrit is considered the oldest language in the world, the “mother of all languages.” Every Hindu book is written in Sanskrit, and it is said that Sanskrit is the language of the demi-Gods.
4. Most Indian’s use their fingers to eat.
In India, it’s common practice to eat rice, sauces, meats and vegetables with your fingers. Some claim that eating an authentic IND curry with your hands is a must for enjoying it to the fullest!
When visiting India, don’t be afraid to try finger food and observe how the locals eat instead of using utensils, knives, and spoons.
5. A village with no locks & doors may be the safest on Earth
The village of Shani Shingnapur is famous for not having a door or lock on a single house. Beyond that, there has not been a recording of a criminal act for almost 400 years.
Many believe that the residents’ mutual vulnerability has strengthened their neighbourly trust, creating a barrier that is more effective than a heavy gate or deadbolt.
6. “Indian food” has become one of the most widespread cuisines in the world
Indian cuisine has expanded throughout the globe and is still becoming more and more popular, from London to New York City.. Many argue that authentic flavor & spice is lostin a large number of eateries located outside of India.
If you are about to visit India and are starting your trip in Delhi, then this food tour is the best and safest way to introduce your palate to authentic Indian food!
7. IND has the highest population of vegetarians
It’s estimated that between 15% and 30% of India’s population follow a strict vegetarian diet, while many others will only consume fish and no land animals.
The popularity of vegetarianism is so great that customers of western fast food restaurants, such as KFC, can choose from a vegetarian menu.
8. There are A LOT of holidays
In 2019, India recorded 26 official holidays, including Independence Day, Deepavali, Holi, and Christmas.
With so many diverse cultural groups blended together in the Indian population, there are many different holidays and festivals, which contributes to the wide range of celebrations.
9. Holi is much more than just a festival of powdered colour
The well-known Hindu spring festival of Holi, also referred to as the festival of colours, is observed throughout India and Nepal.
The name Holi, which represents the triumph of good over evil, is derived from “Holika,” the sister of the demon king “Hiranyakashyap.” It also heralds the arrival of spring and the end of the winter season.
Although the festival is most recognised for its vibrant powders, water also plays a significant role in the festivities as many people use water balloons to start water fights with friends and family.
Beyond being a national festival in India, these days, Holi is celebrated by Hindus all over the world.
20. The world’s largest sundial is located in India
Standing a majestic 27 metres (90 feet) tall, the sundial in Jaipur is the largest in the world!
If all of that wasn’t stunning enough, the sundial is made of exquisite polished stone, which results in a breathtaking piece of architectural design.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site has been designated for the sundial. Thousands of people visit it each year to see the shadow move at a speed of roughly six centimetres per minute.
