India, once an unbroken expanse of diverse cultures and territories known as Akhanda Bharat, spanned from the Himalayas to the Indian Ocean and Iran to Indonesia. However, under British rule, this vast land was divided seven times between 1876 and 1947, reducing its size from 83 lakh square kilometers to 33 lakh square kilometers. Here’s a look at the key separations that shaped modern South Asia and beyond:
Afghanistan (1876)
The Gandamak Treaty of 1876 between Russia and Britain resulted in Afghanistan recognized as a separate entity. Historically, it was part of India, known as Upganasthan or Gandhara. Kandahar, or Gandhara, finds mention in the Mahabharata as the land of Gandhari, the mother of the Kauravas.
Nepal (1904)
Once an integral part of India during the reigns of Emperor Ashoka and Samudragupta, Nepal was separated by the British in 1904. Known as Deodhar in ancient times, Nepal is home to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, and Janakpur, where Sita was born. Despite its deep historical ties, a proposal to merge Nepal with India in 1951 was declined by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
Bhutan (1906)
The British separated Bhutan from India in 1906. Derived from the Sanskrit word Bhu Utthan (high ground), Bhutan had significant cultural and historical connections with India.
Tibet (1907)
Known as Trivishtam in ancient texts, Tibet was divided in 1907 following an agreement between Britain and China. Tragically, India recognized Tibet as part of China in 1954 under Nehru’s leadership, severing ancient cultural and spiritual links.
Sri Lanka (1935)
Previously called Sinhaldeep, Sri Lanka was separated by the British in 1935. Known as Tamraparni during Emperor Ashoka’s reign, it became a significant center for Buddhism after Ashoka’s children, Mahendra and Sanghamitra, introduced the religion there.
Myanmar (Burma) (1937)
Ancient Brahmadesh was separated from India in 1937. In earlier times, Hindu kings ruled Myanmar, and the region’s culture was deeply influenced by Indian traditions.
Pakistan (1947)
India’s most notable partition occurred on August 14, 1947, creating Pakistan based on religious divisions led by Mohammad Ali Jinnah. Pakistan was further divided in 1971, with Bangladesh emerging as a new nation with India’s support.
Apart from this Countries, India (Bharat) Cultural influence on South Asia
India historical and cultural linkage also stage beyond the border, having significant impact on South Asia. The countries which are influenced by Indian Traditions, language, religion and government are:
Indonesia (Dipantar Bharat)
The old name of Indonesia, Dipantar Bharat, means “Ocean Across India.” It was ruled by Hindu monarchs and had significant Shaivite and Vaishnavite influence. The relationship is still evident in its art, architecture, and traditions.
Temples and Religion: The island of Java was once home to the world’s largest Shiva temple. Hindu and Buddhist philosophies dominated the region, reflected in carvings of Lord Rama and Lord Krishna on temple walls.
Language and Governance: Sanskrit left an indelible mark on Indonesia. Many government institutions and mottos are derived from Sanskrit, such as:
Garuda Airlines – named after the divine bird in Indian mythology.
Indonesia National Armed Forces – Tri Dharma Ek Karma.
Supreme Court – Dharma Yukti.
Indonesia Ministry of Home Affairs – Charak Bhuvan
Indonesia Ministry of Finance – Nagar Dhan Raksha
Cultural Symbols: The Indonesian currency features Hindu deities, and the Ramayana is performed in local dances and art forms, showcasing the enduring Indian influence.
Thailand (Syam)
Thailand, known as Syam until 1939. It has a rich history intertwined with Indian culture.
Cities and Names: Major cities such as Ayutthaya (derived from Ayodhya) show strong links to Indian epics. The influence of the Ramayana can be seen in Thai literature and art, where it is called Ramakien.
Temples and Religion: The Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Bangkok is dedicated to Goddess Mariamman.
Shrines to Lord Vishnu and Brahma are found in many Thai cities.
Buddhist Monasteries: Indian influence is evident in the architecture of Buddhist temples (known as wats). The use of lotus motifs, stupas, and pagodas mirrors Indian Buddhist architectural styles.
Architecture: The construction of Buddhist temples began in the 3rd century, heavily influenced by Indian design and style.
Cambodia (Kamboj)
The place name is derived from the word Kamboj, meaning land of the Kamboj people, coming from the Sanskrit name. Its history is immersed in Indian culture.
The world-famous Angkor Wat temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, was built by Hindu King Suryavarman II. Its walls depict scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, showcasing Indian mythology.
Language and Governance: Sanskrit was the official language for centuries, and Indian months such as Chaitra and Ashadha are still in use.
Dynasties and Religion: The Kaundinya dynasty, of Indian origin, ruled Cambodia. The people were predominantly Shaivites, worshiping Shiva, Vishnu, and Buddha.
Vietnam (Champadesh)
Vietnam, known as Champadesh in ancient times, was another region significantly influenced by Indian culture.
Temples and Worship: The Cham people, the original inhabitants, were Shaivites and built numerous temples dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and other Hindu deities. Shivlings and sculptures of Parvati, Saraswati, and Lakshmi are still found in historical sites.
Indian Cities and Names: Ancient cities such as Indrapur and Amravati highlight Indian influence in naming and urban development.
Cultural Practices: Indian festivals and rituals were practiced by the Cham people, blending seamlessly with local traditions.
Malaysia (Malayadesh)
The ancient name of Malaysia, Malayadesh, means “Land of Mountains,” a Sanskrit-derived term reflecting its ties to Indian culture.
Malaysia is described in the Indian Ancient text like Ramayana and Raghuvansham.
Religion and Language: Shaivism was widely practiced, and Sanskrit was the main language for governance and literature. Temples dedicated to Shiva and Durga can still be found in the region.
Cultural Influence: Indian art, dance, and music significantly influenced Malaysian traditions, which are evident in cultural festivals and ancient scripts.
