India Country Facts
Land of timeless traditions, vibrant festivals, spiritual heritage, and unmatched diversity.
Quick Country Facts
| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Country Name | Republic of India |
| Capital | New Delhi |
| Continent | Asia (South Asia) |
| Population | ~1.43 billion (Rank: 1st (as of 2024) globally) |
| Official Language | Hindi, English (plus 21 regional languages) |
| Currency | Indian Rupee (INR) |
| Time Zone | GMT +5:30 (Indian Standard Time) |
| Calling Code | +91 |
Short Fact: India – The World’s Largest Democracy and Cultural Mosaic
India is the world’s largest democracy, rich with ancient history, religious diversity, and a booming technology-driven economy.
Long Fact: India – A Timeless Civilization with Modern Aspirations
India, officially the Republic of India, is a vast and vibrant country in South Asia, bordered by Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, with coastlines along the Indian Ocean.
Boasting a civilization dating back more than 5,000 years, India has been home to ancient urban cultures like the Indus Valley Civilization, and great empires such as the Maurya, Gupta, Mughal, and British Raj. The country gained independence in 1947, and since then, it has evolved into a thriving federal democratic republic.
India is now the world’s most populous nation, overtaking China in 2023, and is a global hub for IT services, pharmaceuticals, space research, and startups. Cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad represent India’s booming urbanization and modernization.
Culturally, India is an unparalleled blend of languages (22 official + 100+ regional), religions (Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism), festivals (Diwali, Eid, Holi, Christmas, Navratri), and traditional arts. It is the birthplace of four major world religions and home to countless temples, mosques, churches, gurudwaras, and monasteries.
From the snowy peaks of the Himalayas, the Thar Desert, to tropical beaches of Kerala and forests of the Northeast, India’s geography is as diverse as its people. Major rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, and Brahmaputra are culturally and agriculturally significant.
India is also known for its Bollywood film industry, yoga, Ayurveda, spicy cuisine, street food, and handicrafts. Dishes like biryani, butter chicken, dosa, samosa, and chai are enjoyed worldwide.
Despite facing challenges like poverty and inequality, India’s democratic strength, youthful population, and innovation-driven economy place it at the center of 21st-century global growth.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About India
Q1. What continent is India in?
Ans: India is in Asia, specifically South Asia.
Q2. What is India famous for?
Ans: India is famous for its diverse culture, festivals, food, spirituality, and being the world’s largest democracy.
Q3. What is the capital of India?
Ans: The capital city is New Delhi.
Q4. What is the population of India?
Ans: Over 1.43 billion people, making it the most populous country (as of 2024).
Q5. What languages are spoken in India?
Ans: Hindi and English are official, with 21 additional regional languages.
Q6. What currency is used in India?
Ans: The Indian Rupee (INR).
Q7. What religions are practiced in India?
Ans: Major religions include Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
Q8. Is India safe for tourists?
Ans: Yes, India is generally safe, but like any country, awareness is advised in crowded or remote areas.
Q9. What are some major Indian cities?
Ans: Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata.