Understanding India

Because of its natural wealth, India has long been a tempting prize for invaders, yet foreign forces such as the Mughal Empire and the British did not destroy India's vibrant spirit. Rather, external influences often became absorbed into the mix of different peoples, languages, religions, and regional traditions, creating a lasting culture of great depth. This book recounts the history of India and much of present-day Pakistan and Bangladesh as well as the factors that have contributed to India's epic economic successes in recent times. Memorable images texture the narrative and vividly animate the story of this unique nation.

Heir to a diverse array of traditions, the Indian subcontinent boasts customs that are distinguished by a constant juxtaposition of the ancient and the modern. The omnibus culture that has resulted from a rich history reflects an accommodation of ideas from across the globe and over time. This inviting narrative examines the tapestry of major events and beliefs that imbue everyday Indian life with vitality, and it presents the remarkable achievements in writing and the arts that have influenced individuals throughout the world.

With a landscape as diverse as the multitude of people that inhabit it, India hosts a wide range of communities, from remote villages nestled in the Himalayas to thriving urban centers. In many ways, it is a land of contrasts, as reflected in its geography-shaped as much by the annual monsoon season as the arid deserts that punctuate the nation. In this volume, readers will experience a juxtaposed journey, visiting both areas that have remained untouched for centuries and areas of technological advancement that have brought the country to the forefront of innovation.