"India is the cradle of the human race, the birthplace of human speech, the mother of history, grandmother of legend, and great grand mother of tradition. Our most valuable and most instructive materials in the history of man are treasured up in India only."

• Mark Twain (American Author 1835-1910)

In sociological terms, culture is defined as the social and political force that influences the growth of human being as a whole. When it comes to India, o culture is a cluster of mannerisms and the way different social groups communicate with each other. Over the years, India has changed a lot in terms of living standard and lifestyle, but even then the value and traditions are still intact and remain unchanged.

"Atithi devo bhaava" is a prime example of the richness of India’s culture. It means that Indian culture treat the guests as Gods and serves them as they are from the same family. The deep respect and devotion towards the elders and the patriarch of the family cannot be found any where else. In India, everything revolves around the family and it is of extreme importance that all the members of the family have the same respect and love towards each other. In fact, culture is more like a legacy which is passed over from generation to generation.

Another aspect of India’s culture can be seen when some one is facing deep trouble. Irrespective of the class, tribe or religion, everyone will step forward to provide help and support.

Culture in India is a dimension which has been composed by its long history and its unique way of accepting customs and traditions, right since the Indus valley civilization took birth. If one takes a proper look at the various aspects of Indian culture, then it can be found that it has been influenced a lot over the ages by the Vedas, the Muslim rule and to a certain extent the British colonization. This blending up of various cultures made it unique on its own. The diversity found in the living practices, languages, customs and traditions has vastly shape the growth of this great civilization.