Early civilization of India practice
The early civilization of India practiced various aspects of cultural, social, political, and religious life. Some of the key practices and aspects include:
1. Agriculture: The early Indian civilization heavily depended on agriculture for sustenance. The practice of farming, irrigation systems, and the domestication of animals were prevalent.
2. Caste system: The caste system played a significant role in the social structure of ancient India. People were divided into four main castes - Brahmins (priests and scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (merchants and farmers), and Shudras (laborers and servants). Each caste had its own specific duties and social status.
3. Vedic religion: The early Indian civilization followed the Vedic religion, which was based on the religious texts known as the Vedas. Rituals, sacrifices, and worship of various gods and goddesses formed a central part of their religious practices.
4. Yoga and meditation: The practice of yoga and meditation originated in ancient India. It was seen as a means to attain spiritual enlightenment, self-realization, and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
5. Temple and deity worship: Temples were built and used as places of worship. People would offer prayers, perform rituals, and make offerings to deities believed to be residing in the temples. The worship of different deities varied across different regions of ancient India.
6. Trade and commerce: Trade and commerce flourished during the early Indian civilization. The Indus Valley Civilization, for example, had an extensive trading network with regions as far as Mesopotamia. The practice of barter and the use of metals as currency were prevalent.
7. Art and architecture: The early Indian civilization has left behind various architectural wonders such as the Harappan city of Mohenjo-Daro and the elaborate temple complexes of later periods. Sculpture, paintings, pottery, and other forms of art were also prominent in ancient Indian culture.
8. Literature and education: Ancient India had a rich tradition of literature and education. The Vedas, Mahabharata, Ramayana, and other epics were written during this time. The practice of imparting knowledge through gurukuls (residential schools) was prevalent.
9. Governance and administration: The early Indian civilizations had well-organized systems of governance and administration. Kingdoms and empires were ruled by kings or emperors who were advised by councils of ministers and nobles. Laws and regulations were also established to maintain social order.
These are just a few examples of the practices followed by the early civilization of India. Each region and period had its own unique practices, but these cultural, social, political, and religious aspects formed the foundation of ancient Indian civilization.