History of India
The very mystique of the Indian history gets the travellers ready to
pack their bags and head to the country. The wide-ranging scenery of India
has, over the centuries, soaked in numerous charms. With a history dating
back 5,000 years, the Indian subcontinent invites researchers, historians,
scholars and holidaymakers alike. As you take a trip through the glory,
turbulence and triumphs of the past, you'll discover an incredibly romantic
and excitingly exotic India.
Let's acquaint ourselves, a bit, with the various stages of Indian history,
so that when you arrive here you are able to feel the beats of India's
exoticism.
Ancient India

The
ancient history of India starts with the Prehistoric period (400,000 BC
2,500 BC) comprising the Paleolithic Age, Mesolithic Age, Neolithic Age and
Chalcolithic Age. The Vedic Age and the legendary Epic Age make the ancient
history as diverse as ever. Next followed the Mauryan Dynasty (322 BC
185 BC) which was established by Chandragupta. It was also around this time
that the invasions by Bactrian Greeks, Parthians, Shakas and Kushans took
place. Other major periods that constitute the ancient history include the
Gupta Era (320 AD 520 AD) and age of the southern kingdoms including
the rule of Chalukyas, Pallavas and Pandavas.
Medieval India
The medieval period of the Indian history has plays a significant role in
framing the fascinating history of the country. The period starts with
Turkish invasions that include attacks by Mahmud of Ghazni and Muhammad
Ghauri. The period between 1206 AD and 1290 AD was the era of the Slave
Dynasty, established by Qutub-ud-Din Aibak. The Khiljis, the Tughlaqs and
the Lodhi Sultans were the next to make a mark on the Indian soil, ruling
over the country for almost three centuries. A little before the Golden Era
of the South India began, two brother named Harihara and Bukka established
an extensive kingdom the Vijayanagar Empire (1336 AD 1565 AD).
Next in line was the Bahamani Kingdom (1346 AD 1689 AD) after which
arose the Mughal Dynasty with the arrival of Babur. The great rulers of the
Mughal empire held the rein of Indian administration for almost 400 hundred
years.
British India

A
crucial period in the history of India began with the arrival of the
Britishers here. They started with setting up spice trade centres in various
parts of the country. It was during 1857 AD that the Mutiny was spearheaded
by Mangal Pandey. By the end of 1858 AD, the Company Rule had already ended
as the British Crown took over. Presidencies were formed and then was
applied the poignant policy of 'Divide and Rule'. The British Raj in the
country spanned from 1858 AD to 1947 AD. The Indian National Movement and
the Quit India Movement were the weapons used to chase the Britishers away
for once and all. And finally India gained her independence on 15 August,
1947.
Modern India
Right after independence, India was beset with numerous economic problems.
The biggest challenge for India was to overcome the trauma of partition. A
federal constitution was formed on January 26, 1950. This helped to complete
the process of political integration. India took around half a century
before it was truly able to find its feet. Today, after long years of
attempts and efforts, India has joined the group of the nuclear powers in
the world. This is also an achievement in itself that India boasts a static
and autonomous economy.