Let’s dive into the fascinating exploration of the correct naming of the people of India, a rich and diverse culture that has its roots in a millennia-old civilization. The people of India are called Indians. However, in our literary journey, we will go well beyond this generic name to discover the linguistic and cultural nuances hidden behind it.
The Indians: a global denomination
The name “Indians” is the name used to designate the inhabitants of India, but this first-rate ethnonymy hides a multitude of cultures, religions and languages. India has more than 2000 different ethnic groups and more than 1600 spoken languages. This cultural richness is reflected in the use of multiple terms to refer to the inhabitants of certain specific regions or communities.
Regional names
India is divided into 29 states and 7 union territories, each with its own name for its inhabitants:
- The people of West Bengal are called Bengalis.
- The people of Gujarat are called Gujaratis.
- The people of Punjab are called Punjabis.
- The people of Rajasthan are called Rajasthani.
The regional ethnonymy of India is as colorful and diverse as its landscapes, each denomination carries with it the richness and complexity of the history and culture of the region it represents.
Religious denominations
India’s religious diversity is also represented in the naming of its people. Whether it is Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism or Buddhism, each religion has left an indelible mark on Indian culture which is reflected in the names of its followers. For example, followers of Sikhism are called Sikhs, while followers of Islam are called Muslims.
Names in terms of nationality
Beyond regional and religious denominations, the term “Indians” is also used to define the nationality of the inhabitants of India. The term “Indian” is internationally recognized and is used in all official documents and passports. Therefore, whether a person is from Kerala or Punjab, Hindu or Muslim, he is Indian to the whole world.
The question “What are the inhabitants of India called?” » may be simple on the surface, but it hides a fascinating cultural exploration. It is inspiring to see how a single nation can harbor such diversity and how this diversity is encapsulated in the different denominations of its people. The name “Indians” offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of cultures, languages and religions that make India beautiful and unique.
Ultimately, whether they are called Indians, Bengalis, Punjabis, Sikhs or Muslims, all of them proudly carry the legacy of their culture and history, thereby enriching the world’s cultural heritage with their unique contribution. It is this pride and respect for cultural diversity that makes India a truly fascinating country, and its people a truly exceptional people.
