Monday, January 26, 2009

Amazing India


India gave birth to several religions including Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism etc. consequently these religions spread to all over the world. Buddhism is a major religion in many parts of Asia. Islam made entry into India with the arrival of kings like Mohammad Ghazani and Mohammad Gori. Mughal soon followed and that was beginning of spread of Islam all over India. India is one of the largest countries in world with maximum population of Muslims. If one looks at different archeological and architectural monuments of ancient India, amalgamation of diverse religions has been distinctly demonstrated in them. Confluence of diverse religions is one of the greatest hallmarks of Indian culture. Ancient Indian art and monuments are wonderful mixture of all the religions.

Indian art first surfaced during prehistoric Stone Age. Many caves and historical places bear testimony to artistic inclinations of Indians. Paintings and drawings of animals can be found in numerous caves. With the passage of time, drawing and painting also got refined. Many ancient households used to adorn the front deck of the house. This particular things has not changed as we can see Indians often decorate their houses. South Indians in particular, are more apt at making beautiful designs in their homes. Other arts including music and dance also got refined. India is home to wonderful classical dances and music like Hindustani and Carnatic music. In fact, different parts of the country have separate dance forms and all of them are still followed with utmost sincerity. People tend to forget themselves in dance like Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Manipuri, Odissi etc.

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