WHAT IS IT ALL ABOUT?
The Origins of “Bharat” and “India”: A Journey Through Time and Culture
The name Bharat holds deep historical and cultural significance, rooted in ancient Indian literature. Its earliest mention appears in the Rigveda, one of the most revered texts in Indian history. The ‘Bharatas’ were a prominent group of people referenced in this sacred scripture, residing across various regions of what is now the Indian subcontinent. The name “Bharat” is derived from two Sanskrit words: “Bha (भा)” meaning “light” or “knowledge,” and “rat (रत)” meaning “devoted” or “engrossed.” Thus, Bharat (भारत) beautifully translates to “devoted to knowledge” or “engrossed in the light,” symbolizing a land where the pursuit of wisdom and enlightenment has always been cherished.
On the other hand, the name India originates in the ancient Indus River, which flows through present-day Pakistan. Upon discovering the Indus Valley Civilization, the Greeks referred to the region as “Indosthan” or “Hindostan.” Over time, this name evolved into “India,” which eventually became synonymous with the entire subcontinent. Interestingly, the transformation of Hindostan to India can be attributed to the Greek and Iranian settlers who arrived on the Indian subcontinent about 2,500 years ago. These early visitors pronounced the letter “h” as “i,” a pronunciation that gradually became common among the native population.
Today, India stands as one of the most fascinating and diverse nations in the world. As the largest democracy, India is home to a rich tapestry of cultures, ethnicities, languages, religious practices, and traditions. The India we know today is a reflection of its glorious past – an ever-evolving civilization shaped by its ancestors. From its vibrant heritage to its enduring spirit of unity, India’s story is one of grandeur, resilience, and the continuous pursuit of knowledge, making it a truly unique nation on the global stage.
THE VISION AND CORE VALUES
The Importance of Understanding Our Roots: A Path to Personal and National Growth
It’s often said that if we don’t know where we come from, we can never truly understand who we are today. Without this self-awareness, we risk losing our sense of direction, both as individuals and as a nation. This principle holds not only in a historical context but in every aspect of our lives. Knowing our past is essential – it safeguards us from an identity crisis and empowers us to contribute meaningfully to the progress and growth of our motherland.
At the heart of a thriving civilization lies an unquenchable thirst: the desire to honour our ancestors, to right the wrongs of history, and to restore their pride. This drive fuels our collective journey toward realizing the dream of ushering in a new Golden Age for Bharat. Through education and awareness, we can reignite the vision our forebears had for this land and transform that vision into reality.
The Idea and the Mission
This blog resembles an “E-Magazine” and it aims to unfold the various dynamic facets of this great nation, the facets being – History, Polity, Economy, Religion and culture, Demography, Geopolitical Standpoint, and the other ergonomics that finetune the beauty of the land.