“Bharat” and “India” carry distinct historical and ideological significance when referring to the nation we now know as India. While “Bharat” has deep-rooted historical and cultural connotations, “India” holds a constitutional and international standing. The utilization of these names has taken on a political dimension, largely due to the emergence of the INDIA alliance (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance).
Origins of the Names: The words “India” and its variants, like “Hind” in Arabic, can be traced back to foreign origins. These names were historically employed by outsiders as a reference to the vast territory situated to the south and east of the Indus or Sindhu River.
Historical Usage: During periods of Afghan and Mughal rule, the term “Hindustan” frequently found its way into the vernacular to describe the northern territories of the Indian subcontinent.
Later Evolution: European colonial powers, most notably the British, adopted the term “India” to describe not only the northern regions but the entire subcontinent as well. To them, it served primarily as a geographical marker, encompassing the vast expanse of land they held sway over. The word “Akhand Bharat” refers to the idea of a one Indian subcontinent that would encompass the modern nations of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Afghanistan, Nepal, Bhutan, and portions of Myanmar. It means “Undivided India” in both Hindi and Urdu. The origins of the concept of Akhand Bharat may be found in mythical and ancient Indian histories, where the Indian subcontinent was considered as a one cultural and geographical entity. However, this idea became increasingly important throughout the fight for Indian independence. Akhand Bharat was frequently referred to be a Hindu nation or empire at the time because of the supremacy of Hinduism in that region. There are currently calls for the integration of Hindu populations in countries with a majority of Hindus, such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, and those countries that are close to India. This is frequently referred to as “Hindu Akhand Bharat.” Some people may confuse the phrases “Hindu Dharma” and “Hindutva,” yet they refer to separate ideologies. Hindu Dharma is built on the idea that everyone is free to practice whichever religion they want in a world where all faiths are accepted. It aspires to a world where all religions coexist peacefully and individuals are free to practice their respective faiths. Contrarily, Hindutva disregards a person’s preference for another faith and enforces Hindu religious rituals on everyone. It frequently coerces people into accepting a new faith. It is important to realize that plurality will remain in “Akhand Bharat” and that no faith would be regarded as superior to others. We struggle daily with issues of casteism and injustice inside the split boundaries of India. This makes accepting and appreciating variety on a global scale appear essential and urgent.
From the ancient bharat practice , there is a belief that bharat land were having multiple religion practice like hindusim, sikhism, jainism, budhism, islamism,christianiaty,zoroastrainism,judaism the pride in embracing diversity.
“Despite India having 22 recognized main languages, it’s amazing to learn that there are really 398 languages spoken there, including 387 surviving languages and 11 endangered languages. This genuinely demonstrates a dedication to diversity and tolerance. Each culture is respected and treated with dignity in this peaceful cohabitation.
India’s history essentially depicts a colorful mosaic of various civilizations, religions, languages, and ideologies. India, one of the world’s oldest civilizations, is officially referred to in English by the two titles India and Bharat. Countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Nepal, Myanmar, and others do not frequently possess these distinctive characteristics. In some of these countries under authoritarian governance, tolerance is not always practiced, and uncertainty looms.