Aside from the Bollywood imagery of India as a land of passionate lovers, enchanting musicals, and colorful festivals, how much do you truly know about this incredible nation? Beyond the lively dances and romantic songs, there's more to India than meets the eye. With over a billion people, India's true beauty lies in its endearing history, diverse cultures, and deep traditions. Here are 15 intriguing facts about India you should know about:
Second-largest English Speaking Country
English became prominent in India during the colonial period under British rule, lasting nearly two centuries until India gained independence in 1947. After independence, English retained its official status alongside Hindi as one of the two official languages of the Indian Union.
Highest number of vegetarians
According to the USDA, as many as 40% of Indians are vegetarians. Many Hindus believe in karma, where actions, including diet choices, have spiritual consequences.
First Diamond-mining Country
India has a long history of diamond mining, dating back to at least 296 BC. One of India's most famous diamond mines was the Kollur Mine near Golconda.
The Taj Mahal is Beyond Architecture
Due to its grandeur and architectural splendor, the Taj Mahal is often misunderstood as a palace, but it is actually a mausoleum.
Cows Are Sacred
Cows hold a special and sacred status in India for religious, cultural, and historical reasons. In Hinduism, cows are exalted as sacred animals and are considered symbols of motherhood.
Tiger Capital of the World
As the habitat of 75% of the world's tiger population, India takes the lead in global tiger conservation efforts.
Pioneers of Snake and Ladder
Next time you play a game of snakes and ladders, remember India. Snakes and Ladders, known as 'Moksha Patam' in ancient India, have a fascinating history dating back thousands of years.
Staggeringly Diverse in Tongues
India officially recognizes 22 languages under the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. A 2018 census shows over 19,500 languages and dialects are spoken as mother tongues nationwide.
Largest Film Producer
Between 1500 and 2000 movies are produced in India annually. Bollywood, centered in Mumbai, is the most prominent and globally recognized segment of Indian cinema.
A Magnetic Hill
Situated on the Leh-Kargil-Baltic National Highway, the Magnetic Hill is known for creating a strong optical illusion.
Inventors of Chess
The precursor to modern chess, Chaturanga, originated in ancient India around the 6th century AD. Chaturanga was a strategic board game played on an 8x8 grid.
World's Highest Cricket Ground
Situated at an elevation of 2444 meters above sea level, the cricket ground in Chail holds the distinction of being the highest in the world.
Largest Postal Network in the World
India holds the title of having the largest postal network in the world, with about 154,965 offices as of March 2017.
Wettest Place in the World
Guinness World Records recognizes Mawsynram for having the highest average annual rainfall.
One of the Most Significant Religious Pilgrimage
The Sri Venkateswara Temple is dedicated to a form of Lord Vishnu—Lord Venkateswara. It attracts an astonishing number of visitors yearly, with daily footfall often exceeding 100,000 devotees during peak times.