What is India Famous For? 37 Things Associated With India That You Probably Didn’t Know
Are you curious about what India is famous for? I am here to nurse your curiosity by sharing some of the things India is famous for.
As a vast country with a deep-rooted sense of culture, a tight family bond, and a thousand years of history, India is a country that is known for so many things!
And it’s not just its impressive population or its famous landmarks, India has so much under its belt that it calls its own and makes its natives proud!
So if you’ve been asking yourself questions like, what is India famous for, what is India known for, what are the Indian famous things, sit tight as I share with you the most common things about India that make it the country we know and love.
What is India Famous For? 37 Things Associated With India
Without any further ado, here are all the famous things about India.
1. Indian Spices
Did you know that one of the things India is famous for is its spices? Also known as the land of spices, the country produces about 70% of the world’s spices from turmeric, masala, coriander, saffron, to many more.
Actually, 75 spices out of the 109 common spices in the world are produced in India. The country is also the largest consumer and exporter of spices in the world.
Don’t miss to visit the several organic spices farms in India for a guided tour when you visit the country.
2. Cricket
The list of what India is known for will be incomplete without cricket. It is the most popular sport in the country and it’s followed religiously by Indians.
The country boasts of having the highest cricket ground in the world. The ground, known as the Chail cricket stadium is perched at an altitude of 2444m (8108ft).
With a stroll in the cities or villages of India, you will find adults, teenagers, and children playing cricket in any open space which goes to show how the game is famous among locals.
The country has also produced some of the finest cricket players globally and has won the Cricket World Cup several times.
Looking for more fun things to do in India? You can check out my recommended tours and activities in the widget below all offered by my favorite tour provider, GetYourGuide.
3. Yoga
One of the things India is famous for is yoga. Though it has recently increased in popularity in the West, yoga originated in India about 5,000 years ago.
The country is also famous for different yoga schools, and it’s a dream destination for many yoga lovers and yogis.
If you want to experience and taste real authentic yoga, visit the many wonderful places in India where you can enjoy yoga and meditation retreats or even get certified as a professional yogi.
4. Bollywood
Another thing that is famous about India is its Hindi film industry commonly known as Bollywood.
Started in the 1930s in Mumbai, India, this flashy and glamorous Indian film industry is famous worldwide and has produced some popular stars currently signed in Hollywood.
Bollywood films are known for their cheesy singing, dancing sequences, and dramatic fight scenes that are exaggerated.
When in India, take this film city tour in Mumbai to get the sensation of Bollywood as watching their films is a treat by itself that you shouldn’t miss.
5. High Population
One of the things India is known for is its population. It is the most populated country in the world after surpassing China in 2023 with approximately 1.42 billion people.
Its population makes up 1/7th of the world’s population and how the government manages such many people at a time is still a puzzle to me.
The country is seen as more of a continent than a republic because of its diverse landscapes, traditions, beliefs, cuisines, and languages that vary enormously across the country.
6. Indian Food/ Cuisine
One of Indias’ famous things is its mouth-watering spicy food. The country offers rich and deliciously flavored dishes unique in every taste being the largest producer and consumer of spices in the world.
If you are a foodie and happen to travel to India, you will love their full-flavored delicious food.
From the famous chicken tikka masala which is actually my favorite Indian dish, Murgh Makhani (butter chicken), Tandoori chicken, and Naan to so many other palatable dishes, the Indian cuisine is unmatched and it will leave you licking your fingers if you love spiced food! Actually, even their tea is spiced up!
The fun part is that every region/state has its own unique signature recipe so prepare your taste buds to sample the variety of unique dishes.
7. Hockey
While cricket is India’s most popular sport, hockey is the national sport of the country.
Since its Olympic debut in the 20th century, India’s international performance was phenomenal and that’s how it became the country’s national sport.
In fact, the Indian men’s team won 8 gold medals, 1 silver, 2 bronze medals, and 1 world cup.
Though hockey today is not as popular as its golden era in India, it’s still one of the things associated with India.
8. Their Family Bond
One of the unique things about the Indian culture is that it promotes family bonds. Unlike other societies, Indians live in a joint family structure where you can find three generations living under one roof.
Different from other cultures where one gets married and starts a new life with their wife/husband away from the family, in India, the couple lives together with their in-laws.
In the Indian culture, family plays an important role in their lives and most of them live in nuclear families.
9. Arranged Marriages
Did you know that 95% of marriages in India are arranged? Yes, this is a thing in their culture and there is no way you can talk about arranged marriages and not think of India. The beauty of it is that divorce is almost unheard of!
Parents and relatives play an important role in finding a suitable spouse for their adult children.
While the number of arranged marriages is starting to decrease over the years with a number of people wanting to choose their life-long partners, it’s still a cultural practice that is likely not to end soon as the families continue to preserve their culture and ancestral lineage.
The question is, can you agree to marry a person who was selected for you by your parents?
10. Holi Festival (Festival of Colors)
The Holi festival is undeniably one of the most colorful festivals in the world that is held in India to celebrate the victory of good over evil.
It is a spectacularly beautiful and colorful event celebrated by throwing colored powders like red, blue, yellow, pink, and purple to one another as they dance underwater sprinkles from water pistols.
This colorful festival attracts people from all corners of the world who come to join and experience the intriguing festival.
Actually, the Holi festival is so famous that it’s not only celebrated in India now but also in other countries that have a huge Indian base with Indians coming together to celebrate this splashy day.
11. Home of Tigers
With over 103 national parks hosting about 3000 wild tigers which is about 70% of the world’s tiger population, India is truly the home of tigers.
If you are interested in spotting tigers, then India should be your next destination as tigers are rare animals yet most of these parks offer a chance to see them in the wild.
12. Culture, History, and Heritage
Some of the other things India is known for are its cultural diversity, rich history, and heritage.
It would be right to say that it is the most culturally diverse country globally with various religions, languages, food, traditions, rituals, arts, and music styles.
Four of the most common religions originated in India. These include; Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism.
The country also has 22 official languages and about 1500 local languages are spoken daily in various states.
Having been ruled by the Dutch, French, Portuguese, Mughal, and British, India has a vast and rich history that attracts thousands of history buffs every year.
A cultural tour in India will offer you limitless options to visit some of the significant historical places.
The beauty of India is that the culture changes depending on where in the country you are visiting since it’s very diverse.
13. Countless Temples
If you were wondering what India is famous for, then I can’t make this list without mentioning its many beautiful temples.
The country is home to over 2 million temples which attract people worldwide who come to seek spirituality.
Some of the famous holy temples India is famous for that you shouldn’t miss visiting while in the country include; the Golden Temple, Konark Temple, Sanchi stupa, and Meenakshi Temple.
14. Indian Attires
Among the things India is famous for are its attires. Indian attires are admirable, elegant, comfortable, and full of glamour.
With innovations and fashion trends, the elegance and charm of traditional Indian wear have now been blended with the Western elegantly cut, formal, sophisticated styles to create luxurious and gorgeous Indian attires.
The attires are available in many colors, patterns, and materials full of glamor that anyone wishes to rock.
Bollywood highly popularized Indian attires, and today, you can find designer sarees, salwar suits, and lehenga in not only India but also in international markets in Europe, UK, and the US.
15. The Himalayas
The Himalayas are a beautiful mountain range in South Asia that stretches across six countries, including India especially the northeastern portion of the country.
The Indian Himalayan Region spans 11 Indian states and union territories and is an important landmark in Asia that attracts adventurous tourists.
It might be shared among a number of countries but India has the most share of the Himalayas covering about 460000 km which constitutes 16.2% of the country’s total geographical area.
The majestic mountain range forms the tallest mountain in the world, Mt Everest whose peak is on the Nepal and China border.
16. Origin of Some Religions
India is the origin of some of the ancient religions in the world. While Hinduism is the oldest and main religion practiced by over 80% of the population in India, other religions like Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism originated here.
All these ancient religions are followed by 25% of the world’s population and their place of origin is traced back to India.
Apart from these ancient religions, Islam and Christianity are also practiced in India, though in smaller percentages.
17. A Spiritual Destination
One of the things associated with India is its spirituality. The country is known to be a spiritual haven that attracts pilgrims from all over the world who come to seek spirituality.
India is the place to be if you are looking for a destination to meditate silently away from all distractions. Book a stay at an Ashram to learn from the spiritual gurus and seek enlightenment.
With over 2 million temples, India offers many spiritual hubs where one can seek divine connectivity.
18. Indian Songs and Traditional Dances
If you have watched Bollywood films, you know Indians’ devotion to their songs and traditional dances. India has many folk dances, and dancing is one of the country’s ancient and culturally celebrated traditions.
Songs and dances are an important part of their culture with people dancing during festivals, weddings, or any chance they get!
Their well-coordinated dance moves from their gestures, body positions, and head movements are a treat to watch and will leave you fascinated.
19. Curry
You can’t think of curry and not think of India as it did not only originate here but it’s also the country’s commonest dish! Actually, even when you ask for Indian food in other countries, the first thing everyone thinks of is curry.
The dish is usually a combination of spices and herbs like (fresh or dried) chilies, turmeric, coriander, cumin, and ginger with either chicken, meat, fish, or vegetables and served with mostly rice, naan, and some other foods.
A blend of sweet and savory spices gives it a unique taste and it’s a must-eat on your visit to the country or if you just want to get a taste of India anywhere in the world.
20. Henna
Though the use of Henna has been adopted worldwide, it is an ancient tradition and form of art introduced in India in the 12th century AD.
During the rule of Mungal, it was applied by the royal and rich families to decorate themselves.
Also known as Mehndi, henna paste in India is associated with positive spirits and good luck.
Therefore, it’s applied to the bride on both hands and legs on the wedding eve to wish her good health and prosperity in marriage.
However, today, Henna tattoo is a common art practiced all over the world.
21. Indian Weddings
Unlike Western weddings, Indian weddings are a big deal that calls for a lot of preparations and planning.
It is a vibrant festival full of celebrations, dance, food, many rituals, and traditions. The wedding takes 3 days with the main ceremony happening on the third day and the other two days are scheduled for different events.
Many rituals and mini-ceremonies are carried out before D-day. The weddings are usually big because Indians live in nuclear families, and sometimes they will even invite the entire community.
The highlights of the Indian wedding are the songs and dances that make the celebrations fun and lively.
If you ever get a chance to attend an Indian wedding, you’ll never want to attend any other wedding because they go all out to make that day special and memorable and that’s why they’re famous.
22. Incredibly Smart Scientists
The list of what India is famous for can’t be complete without including its success in the pharmaceutical industry.
India is the world’s largest provider of generic medicine and its pharmaceutical industries are valued at over US$40 billion.
The country has also produced tech-savvy people like Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Google, Satya Nadella, the CEO of Microsoft and so many other prominent people in the tech field.
The country is known for its incredibly smart scientists thus its success as a major pharmaceutical hub in the world.
23. Diwali Festival
Diwali festival is one of the biggest and most significant festivals in India. It is celebrated by millions of Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains worldwide to honor light over darkness and hope over despair.
Also known as the festival of lights, families fill their houses, both interiors and exteriors, together with the streets with small lamps to light up everywhere.
It is usually a lit celebration and people wear new or their finest clothes and go to the temple or celebrate at home with great food and exchange gifts.
24. Kamasutra
For a country that is hugely reserved about intimate talks, you’ll be surprised to know that Kamasutra is associated with India.
In fact, for most people, their minds will go directly to India when they hear the word Kamasutra. This is because it is the oldest book in the world composed in Northern India that talks about erotic love.
Its main theme is the art of living and guides people on finding a life partner, the nature of love, how to maintain your love life, and when to commit adultery – simply living a life of pleasure.
The book is famous because its explicitness about s*x positions and intimacy goes overboard, presumably ahead of its time.
A temple in Rajasthan sculpts all the major chapters and s*xual positions to illustrate the Kamasutra, and you can visit it if you want to learn more.
25. Diverse Culture
One of the things India is known for is its diverse and vibrant culture. With various religions and languages found here, you will experience different customs, dance, music, food, and architecture from one place to the other.
The country’s cultural diversity attracts many tourists from all over the world who come to taste and experience the multi-cultural nation.
Experiencing different cultures that live harmoniously is a sport you should get on and India will introduce you to that!
26. Ayurveda
One of the specialties of India is Ayurveda, a traditional form of medicine that’s over 5,000 years old.
It is so famous in India that about 80% of the population reported using it at one point!
In fact, there is even a formal study on this particular medicine classified as a Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) degree, not only in India but also in neighboring countries like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal.
If you’re wondering how Ayurveda is performed exactly; it is done by using natural herbs, specific diets, and yoga, all tailor-made to an individual to achieve the goal of a balanced healthy state of the body, mind, and soul.
There are many Ayurvedic centers and retreats scattered all across India, especially in the state of Kerala which is often referred to as the Land of Ayurveda.
27. Invention of chess
When it comes to what India is most famous for, the invention of chess definitely makes the list.
Dating back to nearly 1500 years ago, this intellectual game originated in India under the name Chaturanga.
The game has evolved over time but still retains its core techniques and connection to its Indian origins.
If you’re a fan of chess, you have India to thank for creating this intense game that’s as much about mental prowess as it is about strategy.
28. Kumbh Mela
Kumbh Mela is one of the grandest religious gatherings on Earth and certainly adds to what is India best known for.
Held every 12 years at four different locations, this massive event attracts millions of pilgrims who come to bathe in sacred rivers. The belief is that taking a dip will cleanse their souls from sin.
Originating from Hindu mythology, Kumbh Mela is a spectacle of devotion and spirituality.
The sheer scale of the event is mind-boggling, from the vast temporary cities set up to accommodate pilgrims to the colorful processions and rituals that take place.
Receiving over 200 million pilgrims including one particular day that saw over 50 million people, Kumbh Mela is the world’s largest congregation of religious pilgrims.
Although it was originally a Hindu festival with mostly Hindi devotees, today, people from various backgrounds and countries come to witness and partake in this spectacular gathering.
29. Rickshaws
One of the famous Indian things is a Rickshaw! If you’ve been to any Indian city, chances are you’ve heard the calls of rickshaw drivers offering to take you to your destination at a “special price.”
In crowded places like Delhi, Mumbai, or Kolkata, these will probably look like the most standouts with drivers skillfully weaving through the traffic.
Over the years, they’ve advanced from pulled rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and auto rickshaws to electric rickshaws, which are the new kids on the block. Unlike the loud and pollution-prone auto rickshaws, electric ones are eco-friendly and quieter.
Rickshaws are such a big deal in India that there is even an event known as Rickshaw Run, which is all about teams showcasing their rickshaw driving skills.
The event takes place every 4 months and it receives teams from other parts of the world, not just India.
So, the next time you find yourself in India and you want to experience it in its most authentic form, don’t miss out on a rickshaw ride.
30. Bindis
It’s impossible to talk about typical Indian things and not mention Bindis!
Traditionally, the bindi was a dot of red color applied in the center of the forehead, close to the eyebrows to signify that a woman was married. It also represented a spiritual third eye in Hindu philosophy.
However, over the years, it has evolved and is now embraced by people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds in India.
You can find bindis in various shapes, sizes, and colors, adorned with glitter, beads, or even gemstones today.
Although we always imagine them as just being red, you can also find them in other colors, sometimes to match an outfit, mood, or even as a fashion statement.
But regardless of why one is adorning a bindi, it remains one of the popular things in India.
31. Tabla and Sitar
When it comes to music, Tabla and Sitar are among the famous things in India that have stood out for centuries.
Originating from the Indian subcontinent, these musical instruments are fundamental in both classical and popular music genres in India.
Not sure what they are? The Tabla is a pair of hand-played drums that produce a range of rhythmic sounds, essential for keeping the beat in many Indian music styles.
The Sitar, on the other hand, is a stringed instrument known for its melodious strong ringing sound often used in classical compositions.
The Sitar has been popularized worldwide, thanks to legendary musicians like Ravi Shankar, but the Tabla has also found its place in various musical genres, from traditional ragas to fusion and even some Western forms of music.
32. Mahatma Gandhi
Also known as the Father of the Nation in India, Mahatma Gandhi is a figure of monumental importance not just in India, but around the world.
His principles of non-violence and civil disobedience have inspired countless social and political movements globally.
Born in 1869 in Porbandar, Gujarat, Gandhi initially went to England to study law. However, it was during his time in South Africa, fighting against racial discrimination that he developed his unique methods of peaceful resistance.
Returning to India, he led the struggle for India’s independence from British rule, employing non-violent methods like boycotts, sit-ins, and peaceful marches. The Salt March in 1930 and the Quit India Movement in 1942 are among his most famous campaigns.
His teachings extended beyond just political freedom. Gandhi was also a strong advocate for social equality and aimed to eradicate deeply rooted problems like caste discrimination and untouchability in Indian society.
Though he was assassinated in 1948, his legacy lives on. Every year, his birthday on 2nd October is celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti, a national holiday in India and even as the International Day of Non-Violence worldwide. On the other hand, his date of death, 30 January is recognized as Martyrs’ Day in India.
While in India, you’ll find a number of his statues, museums, and even currency notes bearing his image. He is, without a doubt one of the most revered and iconic figures in Indian history.
33. Home to the World’s Tallest Statue
One of the things India is famous for is that it is home to the tallest statue in the world, The Statue of Unity, a colossal tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel who was one of India’s greatest freedom fighters and the first Deputy Prime Minister.
This structure is not only the world’s tallest statue but also a symbol of India’s unity and its engineering prowess.
Located in Gujarat, the statue is a staggering 182 meters (597 feet) tall, almost double the height of the Statue of Liberty in the United States.
This grand statue aims to capture Patel’s enduring charisma, his leadership during India’s struggle for independence, and his pivotal role in unifying the country post-independence.
The surrounding area has been developed into a tourist attraction, featuring a museum, an exhibition hall, and even a viewing gallery at the height of 153 meters, offering panoramic views of the nearby Sardar Sarovar Dam and its surrounding areas.
So, if you’re ever pondering what is famous in India, the Statue of Unity is definitely one of them.
34. The World’s Largest Postal Network
When people ask what is India famous for, one often overlooked but super impressive fact is that India has the world’s largest postal network.
That’s right! With over 150,000 post offices across the country, this network is a lifeline for many, especially those in rural areas where digital communication is still catching up.
The Indian postal system is as old as the country’s rich history. It started centuries ago and was formalized during the British rule, becoming a system that could rival any in the world.
Nowadays, it does more than just send letters! The postal service offers banking solutions, distributes pensions, and even sells stamps as collectors’ items.
What makes this network so fascinating is its reach. From the towering Himalayas to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, the Indian Post reaches every nook and cranny of the country. In some remote areas, you’ll even find postmen using boats or traveling on foot to deliver mail!
So, next time you think about the best things about India, don’t forget to consider its incredible postal network.
35. Incense
As one of the top Incense producing countries, it’s not surprising that Incense makes it to our list of famous things of India.
Also known as Agarbattis, you’ll find them in India in many places like temples, homes, and shops. They’re also used a lot during festivals and religious ceremonies.
While you may think that the primary reason is just to make a room smell good, yes, that’s true, but its role goes beyond that!
Incense plays a huge role in Ayurveda, India’s ancient system of medicine. (We looked at this above in detail).
They come in different scents, like sandalwood or jasmine, and have specific uses. Some can help you relax, while others might help you focus.
If you’re traveling in India, expect to see and smell incense sticks almost everywhere you go.
36. Silk
India is a big name when it comes to silk production. It’s the second-largest producer of silk in the world, just after China!
Walk into any market in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, or West Bengal, and you’ll see why.
From Mysore silk to Mulberry silk, the quality is top-notch. This fabric is commonly used not only for saris but also for all sorts of clothes and even home stuff like curtains.
So if you’re wondering what is India famous for producing, silk is definitely high up on the list.
37. Home to the Wettest Place on Earth
Last on our list of what is India well known for is the fact that it is home to the wettest place on earth.
Located in India’s Meghalaya state, Mawsynram is the small town that holds this title. The region receives an average annual rainfall of 11,872 millimetres (467.4 in).
Locals rely on handcrafted bamboo umbrellas called knups to navigate their daily lives.
Final Thoughts on What India is Famous For
There are so many things that make India a beautiful country that stands out from the rest! Though this post is non-exhaustive, I hope that you got a better understanding of India and what it’s famous for!
Do you know of other unique things about India that I might have missed? Share with me in the comment section or better yet, let me know which point surprised you the most about India.
Otherwise don’t forget to share this post to make more people aware of what India is famous for.
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