India, the seventh-largest country by land area and the most populous in the world, is a diverse and culturally rich nation in South Asia. With a history spanning thousands of years, it is home to ancient civilizations, major world religions, and a variety of languages and traditions. India has made significant contributions in areas like mathematics, philosophy, and arts. Today, it is a rapidly growing economy with a mix of modern cities and rural landscapes, known for its vibrant democracy, Bollywood film industry, and renowned cuisine. Its political system is a federal parliamentary democracy, and its capital is New Delhi.