Following the doctrine of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’
(The World is one Family), India has been housing
multiple diversity groups with their various social
backgrounds. Historically, India has had a strong
cultural presence globally. Indian subcontinent was
the birthplace of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism,
with documentation for all belief systems, doctrines
and rules in Sanskrit. Various rulers brought their
own cultures throughout the history and India
welcomed all. Many religions with even contrasting
customs are practised, which include Hinduism,
Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Jainism and Buddhism,
to name the major groups. Each community has
their own beliefs and practices resulting in numerous
forms of art, clothing, languages, cuisines, prayer
houses, communal spaces and customs. This
diversity in belief systems results in diverse lifestyles.
Demands and needs of each community are guided
by their belief systems and mythology. These cultural
differences highly affect daily activities and practices,
at an individual and community level.