What is the old name of India?

What is the old name of India?

India has a rich history that spans thousands of years, and over time, it has gone through numerous changes, including changes in its name. The old name of India has a deep-rooted significance in its history, culture, and geography. In this essay, we will delve into the old name of India and explore its significance.

The old name of India is Bharat, which derives from the Sanskrit word ‘Bharata,’ which means ‘the land of the descendants of Bharata.’ Bharata was an ancient king who ruled over a vast territory that encompassed modern-day India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The term ‘Bharatvarsha’ was also used to describe the entire Indian subcontinent, which included present-day India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and parts of Afghanistan.

The name Bharat has significant historical and cultural importance for the people of India. According to Hindu mythology, Bharata was the son of King Dushyanta and Shakuntala, who was a forest nymph. Bharata was said to be the ancestor of the Kuru dynasty, which is believed to have ruled over the Indian subcontinent during the Vedic period. The Mahabharata, one of the most celebrated epics of Hindu mythology, is based on the story of the Kuru dynasty.

The term ‘Bharatvarsha’ was used to describe the Indian subcontinent since ancient times. The term was mentioned in the Hindu epic, the Ramayana, which dates back to around 500 BCE. In the epic, Lord Rama, the protagonist, is said to have traveled across the length and breadth of Bharatvarsha in his quest to rescue his wife, Sita, from the clutches of the demon king, Ravana.

During the medieval period, India was known by various other names. The Mughals referred to India as Hindustan, which means the land of the Hindus. The term ‘Hindustan’ was derived from the Persian word ‘Hindu,’ which was used to describe the people who lived beyond the Indus River. The British also referred to India as Hindustan during their rule.

The term ‘India’ was introduced by the Greeks, who used it to describe the land beyond the Indus River. The Greeks called the river ‘Indus,’ and the land beyond it was known as ‘India.’ The term ‘India’ became popularized in the West during the colonial period and is still in use today.

However, despite the various names that India has been known by, the name ‘Bharat’ continues to hold a special place in the hearts and minds of the Indian people. The name ‘Bharat’ represents India’s rich cultural heritage and its ancient history. It also represents the resilience and strength of the Indian people who have overcome countless challenges and obstacles throughout their history.

In conclusion, the old name of India is Bharat, which derives from the Sanskrit word ‘Bharata.’ The name has a deep-rooted significance in India’s history, culture, and geography. Despite being known by various other names throughout its history, the name ‘Bharat’ continues to hold a special place in the hearts and minds of the Indian people. It represents India’s rich cultural heritage, its ancient history, and the resilience and strength of its people.