Facts About India
India is a beautiful country located in the heart of South Asia. It is home to a population of over 1.3 billion people, making it the world’s second most populous country. Its culture is incredibly diverse, consisting of several major religions, multiple languages, and a rich history. The country is home to many iconic landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, the Red Fort, and the Golden Temple. India is also a rapidly developing nation, with a booming economy and advancements in technology, healthcare, and education. Overall, India is an incredible country with a unique and fascinating culture.
India’s Place in the World: The 7th Largest Country
India is the 7th largest country in the world, with over 1.2 billion people speaking over 122 languages and dialects. It is a diverse and vibrant melting pot of cultures, religions, ethnicities, and languages, and is home to some of the oldest civilizations in the world. It is also a major player in the global economy, making it an amazing country with a lot to explore.
India’s Mighty Military Force: Over 1.45 Million Active Troops
India has the world’s second-largest military with over 1.45 million active troops and is the only country in South Asia to possess nuclear weapons. It is considered a regional superpower in terms of military power and is a net security provider in the region. It is well-equipped to respond to any military threats and contributes to peacekeeping missions around the world.
India: The Second-Largest Populous Nation in the World
India is an incredibly populous country, ranked second in the world behind only China. With over 1.3 billion people, India is a thriving country with a diverse culture and many unique aspects. India is home to a wide variety of ethnic groups, languages, and religions, making it one of the most diverse countries in the world. India also has a booming economy, with its GDP growing steadily over the past few years. India is an important global player and is sure to remain a major player in the world for many years to come.
The Birthplace of Diamond Mining: India
It is believed that India was the first country to ever mine diamonds, with evidence of diamond mining dating back to around 800 BC. Ancient Indians believed diamonds had supernatural powers, and kept them as religious talismans. They used diamonds in jewelry and as decoration for religious statues. India was a major source of diamonds for centuries, until the discovery of diamond deposits in Brazil in 1725. India is still a major diamond producer, with the majority of diamonds on the market today coming from India.
Breaking Records: The Chenab Bridge, the Highest Rail Bridge in the World
The Chenab Bridge is an engineering masterpiece. Located in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, India, this bridge is the highest rail bridge in the world at 359 meters above the Chenab River. It is part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link project, and was designed by the Indian Railways. The bridge was constructed with the help of advanced technology, including 3D engineering planning and robotic welding. It is an incredible feat of engineering and is a symbol of India’s growing prowess in the field of infrastructure development.
Exploring India’s Rich Religious Diversity
India is a land steeped in religious history and culture, and this is demonstrated in its vast selection of religious buildings. With over 300,000 mosques and over 2 million Hindu temples, India is an incredible example of the ability to both accept and celebrate various religious beliefs. These sites are not only places of worship, but can also be places of education, community gathering, and cultural exchange. They are a testament to the long and vibrant history of India and what it stands for.
Exploring the Unusual Rat Temple in Rajasthan
One of the most unique temples in Rajasthan is the Karni Mata Temple, commonly referred to as the Temple of Rats. This temple is dedicated to a Hindu goddess and is home to thousands of holy rats that are believed to be the goddess’ reincarnated sons. Visitors to the temple are encouraged to feed the rats, and it is believed that if a rat eats from your hand, it is an act of great good luck. This temple is a unique and fascinating site, and a must-see for anyone traveling to Rajasthan.
Uncovering the Secrets of India’s Mysterious Skeleton Lake
The Roopkund Lake in the Indian Himalayas is a mysterious body of water that has captivated tourists and scientists alike. Hundreds of skeletons were found at the bottom of the lake, leading to numerous theories surrounding their origin. Some believe that the skeletons were of a group of local travelers who were caught in a severe hailstorm centuries ago, while others suggest that the remains are of an army from an ancient battle. The lake is located at an altitude of over 16,000 feet and is surrounded by towering mountains, making it a stunningly beautiful and mysterious place to visit.
The Safety of a Lockless Village
The village of Shani Shingnapur in India has no locks or doors and has lived peacefully for centuries due to its inhabitants’ devotion to the Hindu god, Shani. This village serves as a reminder that faith and community can bring safety and security, even without locks or doors.
The Majestic Sundial of India
The world’s largest sundial is located in Jaipur, India. This incredible sundial, which is made of stone, is 45 meters in diameter and stands at a height of 27 meters. This true engineering marvel is said to have been built in 1728 by Jai Singh II, the ruler of the city. It is believed that this sundial was used to accurately calculate the time of day and the seasons.
The TajMahal in Disguise: How World War II Changed its Appearance
During World War II, the TajMahal in India was disguised with a bamboo stockpile to protect it from potential bombing attacks. This measure was successful in protecting the building, but had the unfortunate side effect of damaging the surrounding landscape.
The Surprising Use of Coke and Pepsi in India
In India, some farmers are using Coke and Pepsi as a form of pesticide due to their high sugar content being toxic to pests. This is becoming more popular due to its affordability and effectiveness, though it should be used with caution as it can damage the soil and may not be as effective as other pesticides.
Exploring the Last Untouched Place on Earth: North Sentinel Island
North Sentinel Island is an isolated, untouched place located in the Bay of Bengal that is home to the Sentinelese people. The Indian government has declared it off-limits to protect its inhabitants, and it remains one of the most mysterious and fascinating places on Earth, with a unique cultural and natural heritage that should be preserved.
The Magnificent Kumbh Mela: Visible from Space
The Kumbh Mela is an incredible event held every three years in India, with over 120 million pilgrims gathering in Allahabad, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. Its scale can be seen from space, highlighting the power of faith and community. Its visual presence serves as a reminder of the strength of religious devotion.
Exploring the Six Seasons of the Hindu Calendar
The Hindu calendar follows the traditional lunar cycle and has six distinct seasons of spring, summer, monsoon, autumn, pre-winter and winter. Each season has its own distinct characteristics, from the blooming of flowers in spring, to the summer heat and monsoon rains, to the cool autumn breeze, to the pre-winter fog, to the snow and chill of winter.
Exploring the Timeless Splendor of Varanasi: The World’s Oldest City
Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history of over 3000 years. It is a spiritual and culturally vibrant city, with important religious sites, and is a popular destination for Hindu, Buddhist and Jain pilgrims, as well as scholars and seekers of knowledge. It is a must-visit for anyone wanting to explore India’s culture.
A Global Phenomenon: The Rise of Indian Cuisine
Indian food has gained worldwide recognition for its unique blend of spices and flavors. It has become a popular choice for people of all backgrounds, not only for its taste but also for its health benefits such as its high fiber content. With its wide variety of dishes, it is no surprise that “Indian food” is one of the most popular cuisines in the world.
A Unique Dining Experience: Eating with Fingers in India
In India, eating with one’s hands is a traditional cultural practice that is seen as more than just consuming food. It is believed to be a way to show respect for the food and to truly savor all its flavors and textures. Each bite is taken with care and attention.
Vegetarianism on the Rise in India
India has the highest population of vegetarians in the world, with 40% of the population following a vegetarian diet. This is due to religious beliefs, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism advocating for vegetarianism. As a result, India has a wide variety of vegetarian dishes, making it a great destination for vegetarians.
The Spice of India: 70% of the World’s Spices
It is estimated that around 70% of the world’s spices come from India. The country is well-known for its diverse range of spices, from the commonly used cumin, turmeric, and garam masala to more unique flavors like asafoetida and star anise. India’s spices are used in a variety of cuisines around the world, from Indian food to Mexican dishes. India has long been a powerhouse in the spice industry and its spice-producing regions are known for their high quality and affordability. India’s spices are a vital part of global cuisine.
The Surprising Indian Restaurant Scene in London
London is renowned for its variety of international cuisine, especially Indian food. The city has more Indian restaurants than those found in Mumbai or Delhi, offering both traditional and modern dishes. This variety has made London one of the most popular destinations for Indian food.
India’s Dairy Dominance: World’s Largest Milk Producer
India is the world’s largest producer of milk, producing over 150 million tonnes annually and accounting for almost 20% of global share. This rapid growth has been aided by initiatives such as Operation Flood, creating a modern and efficient dairy industry in the country and contributing to employment and economic growth. India now has the highest number of dairy cows and buffaloes in the world.
A Place of Abundance: The Amritsar Golden Temple Feeds Thousands for Free
The Amritsar Golden Temple is a renowned Sikh shrine in India that is known for its hospitality and compassion. It serves free meals to thousands of people each day, regardless of their faith, caste, or creed, and provides a symbol of religious harmony. The Langar kitchen, run by volunteers, cooks and serves meals to over 100,000 people daily with no discrimination. The temple is an example of how religious communities can come together and share in the spirit of love and compassion.
India’s Monumental Feat: World’s Tallest Statue
The Statue of Unity in Gujarat, India is the world’s tallest statue at 182 meters, designed by Indian sculptor Ram V. Sutar and inaugurated in 2018. It serves as a tribute to the Indian independence leader Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and is constructed from 70,000 metric tons of cement, steel, and bronze, symbolizing India’s greatness and culture.
The Origins of Shampoo: An Indian History
Shampoo is an ancient practice originating in India and is used worldwide today. It is made from natural ingredients, and is believed to have many health benefits for the hair. It has become a popular product for daily hygiene, with many varieties available to cater to different needs.
The Sacred Cows of India
Cows are considered sacred in India, and they have been held in high reverence for centuries. In Hinduism, cows are seen as a symbol of wealth, prosperity and abundance and are believed to be a source of divine energy. Cows are also seen as a symbol of motherhood since they provide milk and play an important role in agriculture. Hindus believe that the cow is a representation of the divine, and it is respected and honoured as such. As such, cows are offered protection and are not killed or eaten in India.
An Unusual Sight: India’s Floating Post Office
The world’s only floating post office is located in Dal Lake, Srinagar, India. It is an interesting and unique way to deliver postal services to the people of Srinagar. The post office is run by the Indian Postal Service and has been in operation since 2011. The post office operates from 11 am to 5 pm every day, except Sundays. It has a full-fledged office, with a counter, counter staff, and postmaster. The post office also has a philately museum showcasing the history of Indian stamps.
Exploring India’s Wettest Inhabited Place
India is home to Mawsynram in Meghalaya, the wettest inhabited place on Earth. It receives an average of 11,871 mm of rain annually over a period of 183 days. The village of Mawsynram is situated in the east Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, which is about 15 km from the town of Cherrapunji. Despite the heavy rainfall, the locals of Mawsynram are very welcoming and friendly. Visitors to Mawsynram can experience the beautiful landscape and lush vegetation of Meghalaya, along with the unique culture of the locals.
The Highest Cricket Ground in the World: A Must-See Destination
The Chail cricket ground in Himachal Pradesh, India is the highest cricket ground in the world, located at an altitude of 2,444 meters. Surrounded by lush Deodar forests and offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, this ground has become a popular destination for cricket enthusiasts and tourists. It has a unique setting and rich history, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the sport.
The Origin of Snakes and Ladders: India
Snakes and Ladders originated in India in the 13th century and was created by the poet saint Gyandev as a teaching tool for children. The game board was originally a cloth or board with images of Hindu gods and goddesses and their associated morals. The game is a representation of life, with ladders representing virtues and snakes representing vices. Landing on a ladder allows the player to move up, whereas landing on a snake causes the player to slide down a number of squares.
The Origins of Chess: India
Chess is believed to have been invented in India around the 6th century, during the Gupta Empire. Since then, the game has evolved and spread throughout the world. The game of chess has come to symbolize strategy and skill, as each game requires players to carefully plan out their moves and anticipate their opponents. It is also a great way to practice problem-solving and critical thinking.
India Ranks Third in Guinness World Records
India has achieved a remarkable third place ranking in the Guinness World Records, setting several records including the most people performing yoga simultaneously and the most people sweeping a single area, as well as the longest moustache, marathon board game, and chain of people holding hands. This incredible achievement is proof of India’s immense potential for creativity and innovation, and is something for the whole nation to be proud of.
The Disproportionate Tax Burden on Indian Citizens
In India, only 3% of citizens pay income tax, which is an alarmingly low ratio. Tax revenue helps fund public services, infrastructure, and social welfare schemes, so it is important for citizens to pay their taxes and contribute to the growth of the nation.
A Meteor’s Impact: The Creation of a Giant Indian Lake
The largest saltwater lake in India, located in Rajasthan, was formed thousands of years ago by a meteor impact. It has a depth of 3 meters and covers 330 square kilometers. It is a major tourist attraction and serves as a protected national park, with a variety of wildlife living in and around the lake. This lake is a reminder of the power of nature and its influence in shaping our planet.
Awe-Inspiring Peaks: 9 of the World’s 10 Highest in the Himalayas
The Himalayas are the world’s highest mountain range, with nine of the ten tallest mountains located there. Tourists flock to the region to experience the majestic views and unique natural wonders, such as extreme weather conditions and a variety of flora and fauna. It is no surprise that the Himalayas are home to such a large proportion of the world’s highest peaks.
The Sacredness of India’s Holy River
The Ganges River in India is considered the holiest river in the world and is a sacred place of worship for Hindus. Millions of pilgrims travel to India each year to bathe in the river, believing it will rid them of their sins and ailments. It is also a source of water, food, and transportation for local communities and is a symbol of hope and faith for many people. With a long and rich history, the Ganges is truly one of the holiest rivers in the world.
The Highest Bridge in the World: The Bailey Bridge in the Ladakh Valley
The Bailey Bridge is the highest bridge in the world, standing at 5,602m above sea level in the Ladakh Valley. Constructed with the help of the Indian Army, it spans over the Suru River and is capable of supporting heavy loads, including tanks and military vehicles, since 1982. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the engineers and the Indian Army who made it a reality.
Chai: The National Drink of India
Chai, or tea, is a popular beverage in India that is made with a mix of spices, herbs, and tea leaves, and is served hot and sweet. It is widely consumed by people of all ages and classes, and can be found at most street corners and markets. Chai is commonly enjoyed for morning or afternoon tea, or as a snack between meals, and is an essential part of the Indian experience.
Relaxing at the Elephant Spa in India
Located in the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, India, the elephant spa offers mud baths, herbal treatments, and massage therapies to the majestic animals. Not only is the spa open to visitors and locals alike, but the experience allows for close interaction with the elephants. In addition, the spa has been praised for its contribution to elephant conservation.
The Mystical Hill of India: Defying Gravity!
The Magod Falls, also known as Maha Shivagiri, is a hill located in Karnataka, India that appears to defy gravity by flowing upstream against the water current. While the exact reason is unknown, many theories have been proposed. It is a remarkable sight and one of India’s most unique natural wonders.
A Family of 135: The World’s Largest in India!
Ziona Chana is the leader of the world’s largest family in India, with 39 wives, 94 children, and 67 daughters and 33 sons. They live in a four-story home in the remote north-eastern state of Mizoram and follow a Christian sect called ‘Chana’, which allows a man to take up to four wives. This family is a testament to the power of love and loyalty.
No Exporting Indian Rupees: Foreigners Banned from Taking Currency Out of India
It is illegal for foreigners to take Indian currency, or rupees, out of India. This is enforced by the government in order to keep the value of the rupee stable, as well as to prevent money laundering and other financial crimes. In addition, tourists are not allowed to exchange their own currency for rupees while in India, though they can exchange rupees back into their own currency when they leave. This law is taken very seriously, and those found in violation of it can face serious consequences.
The Inadequate Salary of India’s First President
Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President, was a man of remarkable character. Despite his immense contribution to India’s freedom struggle and later as the President, he only accepted 50% of his salary. He donated the remaining 50% to various charitable causes and to help the poor and needy. His generosity and selflessness was an inspiration to all Indians and further strengthened the notion of India as a nation of service and sacrifice.
Cows in West Bengal Get Photo ID Cards!
In West Bengal, India, cows have been given the same rights as humans when it comes to identification. All cows in the state must now carry a Photo ID card, which is issued by the government. This Photo ID card is used to keep track of cows and ensure that they are in the right hands. The card also provides information such as the cow’s name, age, and owner. This new policy is a great step towards protecting cows and ensuring their safety.
A Historic Moment: India’s First Rocket Transported By Bicycle
In the early 1960s, India’s Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the nation’s first rocket, transported to the launch site on a specially-modified bicycle. The bike was designed to support the rocket, which was over 12 feet long and weighed 500 pounds, demonstrating the remarkable engineering ingenuity and creativity of the ISRO engineers.
India’s Population Outnumbers the Western Hemisphere!
India has a population of over 1.3 billion people, significantly more than the entire Western Hemisphere which is estimated to be around 1.1 billion. India is one of the most populous countries in the world, showing success and growth in recent years.
India: World’s Largest Importer of Arms
India is the world’s largest arms importer according to SIPRI, having held that title for the past five years. This is attributed to its large population, need for military modernization, and various territorial disputes. Its imports come from the US, Russia, and France, with imports increasing steadily over the past five years. India’s population and security issues make it a major player in the global arms market.
India’s English-Speaking Population: Second Largest in the World
India is the second largest English speaking country in the world, with over a billion people possessing the ability to communicate in English as a second language. This has enabled India to become a major player in the global economy and a bridge between the East and West. India’s large English speaking population is a result of its commitment to education and development.
The Bengal Tiger: India’s Endangered National Symbol
The Bengal Tiger is the national symbol of India and is one of the most endangered species in the world. Found mainly in India, the estimated population of the Bengal Tiger subspecies is 2,500. The Indian government is taking various steps to protect this iconic species, such as creating tiger reserves, protecting forests, and raising awareness for conservation. The Bengal Tiger is a symbol of strength and resilience, and its conservation is essential for the future of India’s wildlife.
India’s Record-Breaking World War II Volunteer Army
The Indian Army, composed of 2.5 million volunteers, was part of the British Empire during World War II. They fought alongside Allied forces in Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia and were essential to the eventual Allied victory. Many of the soldiers were decorated for their bravery and their service is still remembered today. The Indian Army’s contribution to the war is an important part of history.
