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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.
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